Reviews

Getting Hot With the Scot

“Fun, smart, and supersexy; a great debut from a writer to watch.”

– Kirkus Reviews

“A fizzy, engrossing new voice…Johnson has crafted a romp with plenty of heart and just the right amount of bite, making her an instant essential addition to the exploding collection of rom-coms on shelves right now.”

-Entertainment Weekly

“The lovemaking scenes are electric, but the most revealing moments are outside of bed when Logan and Cassie are laughing with their friends and families. This enjoyable tale gently pokes fun at romance clichés while giving romance readers what they’re looking for.”

-Publisher’s Weekly

“An enthralling fling from a notable new voice in romance. “

-Booklist

“A super sexy, fun, and flirty debut contemporary romance!

-Fresh Fiction

“This fluffy romance morphs into a heartfelt story with deeper issues that grounds it and sets it above the rest of the pack while still sparking with fun. “

-Adrian of Omnivoracious (Amazon’s Best Romances of May)

“This book had everything you hope to get from a romance: steamy sex scenes with the right amount of humor, flirtation and banter, emotions and feelings deeper and more complex than just lust.”

-Renee of Old Firehouse Books, Fort Collins’ Largest Indie Bookstore

“Sweet, funny, sexy AF, and just a wonderful all around read, Getting Hot with the Scot by Melonie Johnson is a fabulous first time novel and sets the bar high for other up and coming rom-com writers. A definite must read!”

-Chris of a Midlife Wife

“I haven’t laughed this hard in a LOOOOONNNNGGG time! There were parts that I was afraid I would choke on the drink I was drinking or worse spit it out all over the person seated next to me. The laughs were just one part that made this book a great read, the chemistry between Logan and Cassie was the other. These two couldn’t keep their hands off one another, and honestly with a man in a kilt who could blame Cassie.”

-Nadine’s Obsessed with Books

“Ms. Johnson wrote a wonderful and amazing tale that was emotional, and moving, filled with sexual chemistry, wonderful dialogue, and endearing characters that is must read. I totally loved this story about Cassie and Logan finding their true and forever love.”

-Eileen of Lorelei’s Lit Lair

“Witty. Steamy. Sweet. This book made me want to drop everything, pack my bags, and head to Scotland, to find me a man in a kilt. I loved Cassie and her friends, this was a group of girls I would love to hang out with. Simply put this was an engaging story that left me wanting more!”

-Audio Killed the Bookmark

Melonie Johnson writes greatly developed characters and a story that is very relatable, especially in this age of dating. The story is full of chuckles and can be devoured in one sitting if real life doesn’t come knocking.”

-Kris and Vic Book Therapy Cafe

“I cracked open Getting Hot with the Scot and I was completely captivated from the first page. The writing style was easy and fun. The characters were engaging. The book was filled with friendship, travels, family, love, hijinks and plenty of passion and steam. And let’s not forget a sexy man with a Scottish accent and a kilt Yum! I enjoyed every single part of this book and can not wait to read more from Melonie Johnson!”

-Love Affair with Fiction

“The first chapter basically sucked me in. It was just so good. The ending of that chapter made me excited. It promised fun. And it delivered, big time!”

-Slovenian Bookworm

“American Girl meets Man in a Kilt! This formula is one of my favorite plots and this book did not disappoint…funny with captivating characters!”

-Loreal’s Books

“This was a fun, instantly engaging romantic comedy. The characters were hilarious and exactly the type of friends I would want to go on a vacation with!”

-Books, Books, and More Books

“Getting Hot with the Scot by Melonie Johnson is hilarious, heartfelt, and sexy as sin. ”

-Urban Book Reviews

“Getting Hot with the Scot is a swoon-worthy love story that is full of passion, emotional upheaval, and adorable characters with witty dialogue and a hot sizzling romance making this the perfect beach read.”

-Lovely Loveday

“The premise is fun, the opening chapter is hysterical, and the story flows quick and easy. The author did a fantastic job of making this reader feel like she was in the middle of the fun and didn’t want it to end. ”

-Fireflies and Free Kicks Fiction Reviews

“A perfect summer read full of fun characters, romance and hot sex.”

-Red Carpet Crash

“…when I was only 60 % through Getting Hot with the Scot I had already pre-ordered physical copies of not only this book, but the next two books in the Sometimes In Love series. I don’t normally feel that strongly about a book, so you know it’s good!”

-It’s Just Me, Ashley

Getting Hot with the Scot is one romance that you will not want to miss plus it has a great group of gals who are as endearing as they are entertaining, definitely a book to add to your summer reads list!”

-The Genre Minx Book Reviews

“While the romance starts as a holiday fling (complete with wall sex), it evolves into a relationship that I believe can go the distance. Not just because they want to screw each others’ brains out, but because they can laugh together and seem to be genuine friends. The whole thing is charming, and I look forward to reading the next two. “

-Love in Panels

“This book had me laughing out loud and my husband wondering what could possibly be so funny.  I never know what to expect with romance novels but this one hit all of my buttons – humor, romance, sexy scenes, and a myriad of emotions.”

Storeybook Reviews

“It was impossible not to fall for this couple and root for them every step of the way. Getting Hot With the Scot is witty and charming as well as sexy and smart. I thoroughly enjoyed it!”

-Musings of a Bookish Kitty

“A romantic, realistic fast-paced romance that I finished in a day and I have to say I was hooked! The atmosphere was well described and I could really feel the friends’ excitement about the trip. I liked how they all got on and were supportive but also wanted a laugh together. Prepare yourself for some pretty hot scenes between Cassie and Logan. Melonie Johnson is a new author for me, and Getting Hot with the Scot is the first in the Sometimes in Love series. I was impressed by this brilliant, fun debut with excellent flow and have the other books on my TBR list.”

-Just Katherine

Getting Hot With the Scot was such a charming love story. I loved that it has as much to do with friendship as it did with the unfolding love story.”

-Book Fidelity

“I had such fun with  GETTING HOT WITH THE SCOT that I’m still smiling. It’s so easy to put Romance in categories these days, but to put it simply – if you love a story that will have you chuckling and laughing out loud, perhaps shed a few tears or at least get misty-eyed, and love when an author can give you an accent in words that you can actually hear then you’re gonna want to pick up Logan and Cassie’s adventure right now. “

-Keeper Bookshelf

“This book was so much fun and I really enjoyed Cassie and Logan’s story! It was just as sexy and steamy as it was sweet, swoony and endearing. A beautifully well-written and heartfelt romcom with characters that will steal your hearts, Getting Hot with the Scot by Melonie Johnson was a fantastic read until the last page. It was humorous, exciting, steamy, and sweet. Johnson just made it to my new to me favorite author list and I cannot wait to be smitten with Bonnie and Theo in the next installment.”

-Sincerely Karen Jo

“A beautifully well-written and heartfelt romcom with characters that will steal your hearts, Getting Hot with the Scot by Melonie Johnson was a fantastic read until the last page. It was humorous, exciting, steamy, and sweet. “

-Karen C (Netgalley Reviewer)

“I love books with strong female friendships, and Melonie Johnson delivers that in the Sometimes in Love series. These women clearly care a lot about each other, and it’s empowering.”

-Elley the Book Otter

“All of the characters are well thought out, relatable and endearing, and I easily, eagerly devoured this book in one evening. I wholeheartedly recommend this heartfelt, humorous read, and I can’t wait for the next book in this series!” 

-Book Addict Romance

“I knew I was in for a treat when the first sentence already had me smirking. I believe I read most of the book while sporting a delighted smile. This lively tale was brimming with irreverent humor, sassy banter, and clever wit.”

-Books and Bindings

“Laugh out loud Funny. A light read, “Getting Hot with the Scot” showcases Melonie Johnson’s lovable sense of humor. The main characters and those in the supporting roles interchangeably played comedian and straight man to each other. It’s non-stop laughter except of course for the dramatic parts.”

-Marienela

Getting Hot with a Scot was a fun and romantic debut that hit all the right notes for me. The Sometimes in Love series promises to be excellent and I can’t wait to read more from this author. “

-The Infinite Limits of Love

“As bright as a sunny day, this love story has passion, emotional upheaval and two adorable characters who just can’t seem to get on the same page when it comes to love. Witty dialogue, clever clichés, sizzling, enthusiastic dances between the sheets, grab a beach chair and fall in love with love!”

-Tome Tender Book Blog

“This story is well written, fun and easy read. The Scot and his English mate both make it all more swoony. Always a good thing in my book.”

-The Book Hammock

“Emotional, witty, and enjoyable from beginning to end, GETTING HOT WITH THE SCOT by Melonie Johnson was everything I wanted it to be and more. The characters are likeable and I enjoyed getting to know them, and the settings are brought to life in a fun way which really worked for me. There is drama, friendship, and love nestled among these pages and I highly recommend this book to all romance fans.”

-Books of all Kinds

Getting Hot with the Scot was a fun book! I loved Cassie and her girlfriends, and Logan’s friend Theo. The author did a great job with the chemistry between Cassie and Logan and it was believable to readers. I loved how their relationship really grew from lust at first to love.”

-2014 and Beyond

“Getting Hot with the Scot is a fun read that grabbed my attention from the first chapter! Hilarious moments, fun banter, a great group of girlfriends and one hot scot made this story such an amazing read! Cassie and Logan had sparks from the first moment they met and the wild attraction carried throughout the book and took me on a grand romantic adventure! I truly enjoyed it and recommend this book!”

-Sultry Sirens

Getting Hot with the Scot is an entertaining romance with a lovely cast of characters and endearing friendships. Fans of contemporary romance novels will enjoy this first release in Melonie Johnson’s Sometimes in Love series. “

-Book Reviews and More by Kathy

Getting Hot with the Scot by Melonie Johnson is contemporary romance with a sexy edge that melts concepts of romantic lit and erotica into a very unique cocktail. A comfortable, easy going modern romance that could hit you in all the right spots. Fun characters with a teeming helping of cute dialogue will satisfy readers looking for a good time with some unique European backgrounds.”

-TEHBEN’s Book Club

“This is the first book in a brand new series and I’m absolutely hooked.  The chemistry between these two characters was amazing and I wanted so desperately for things to work out between the two.  This was a hot, steamy romance with wonderful laugh-out-loud moments which shouldn’t be missed.  I can’t wait to see which of her friends finds their happy ending next. “

-Moonlight Rendezvous

Getting Hot with the Scot was, in short, downright fun and all sorts of steamy. A little rom-com with plenty of emotion behind the scenes, I think it’s absolutely perfect for contemporary romance fans and readers looking to escape on a whirlwind trip to the UK!”

-NovelKnight

“This book was just plain old fun. The heroine bumps into what looks like a straight out of Outlander hottie in a kilt while exploring a castle in Scotland. The whole thing is fun and adorable, I am definitely looking forward to reading the rest of the series.”

-Falon Loves Life

I got Hot With The Scot. I cannot wait to get my hands on Smitten By The Brit! Overall – Five Stars. I want more.

-Birdie Bookworm Blog

Smitten by the Brit

“The sophomore effort from Johnson may be even better than her exceptional debut, and her navigation of betrayal, heartbreak, noblesse oblige, family pressure, disappointment, and the healing power of love add up to another terrific read. Along with the snappy dialogue, sizzling emotional and sexual tension (with a couple of very hot sex scenes), and full-blooded characters, Johnson weaves in references to art, literature, music, and other cultural touchstones that add depth and authenticity to the tale. Another delightful winner from an author on the rise.”

-Kirkus Reviews

“Rollicking fun… This irreverent tale turns several romance tropes on their heads while still delivering that sweet fairy tale ending that readers look for. ”

Publishers Weekly

“Bonnie and Theo are kind, smart, and oh-so-deserving of each other. Their love is sure to melt hearts; the chemistry is titillating; fun literary references add to the charm; and well-drawn secondary characters create additional depth and humor. Readers will be entirely smitten.”

-Booklist (Starred Review)

“Aglow with sparks of attraction and a smashing romance…
SMITTEN BY THE BRIT is powerfully romantic and temptingly refreshing like a Long Island iced tea in the summer time!”

Romance Junkies

“The second book in the delightful Sometimes in Love series, SMITTEN BY THE BRIT is yet another refreshing romance from rising star author Melonie Johnson. Between the obvious love for Chicago and the UK, as well as Bonnie’s penchant for quoting Shakespeare and Austen in regular conversation, along with an actual duke for a hero, this book has so much going for it. “

-Fresh Fiction

“Full of charm and romance.”

-Woman’s World Magazine

“What a delightful surprise this book was! From the moment I started reading I knew this would be one of those adorable summery contemporary romances that just leaves you with a smile on your face. Getting to that happily ever after for this couple was a fun ride and I’m excited to read more from this author. “

-Under The Covers

A wonderfully entertaining read from cover to cover by an author with a complete master of the modern romance genre, Melonie Johnson’s “Smitten by the Brit” will prove to be an immediate and enduringly popular addition to personal reading lists and community library Romance Fiction collections.”

-Midwest Book Review

“Sparks fly hot in this read. I never enjoyed myself more than when following these characters. The whole cast is wonderful. Melonie Johnson has a magical way of luring me into her books.”

-Urban Book Reviews

“So if you want to curl up and read a book which promises HEA with a superb connection between the characters this is a book worth picking up. And this author has been added to the list of my favourite Romance Contemporary / Steamy authors list!!”

-Somya Sahni of Bookaholic Meets Finance Aficionado

“Don’t even get me started on the dashing and chivalrous Theo. Just kidding, I definitely want to talk about one of my new book boyfriends. YES, this book is THAT AWESOME. I already preordered my physical copy, because I need to hold this piece of heaven in my hands.”

-I Read Ergo Sum

If you love Regency romances, SMITTEN BY THE BRIT is its 21st century equivalent. A fun read with some British dry wit humor. You will find Theo and his family fascinating. And most of all, you will fall in love with Theo and Bonnie who against all odds find their way to their happily ever after.

-Marienela

“This book has a lot of laugh out loud moments for me and I read the book very quickly since I didn’t want to put it down.  I enjoyed the conversations between Theo and Bonnie, the various activities they did while she was in England, and just how they just seemed to click. I’m hoping that there will be a couple more books featuring the other two girlfriends that make up the rest of Bonnie’s group of friends.”

-Storeybook Reviews

“Theo is worth the leap of faith!  And, speaking of the the sexy Brit, I loved that he was a perfect gentleman, so caring and charismatic.  He’s everything a girl wants in her dream man.  And, the fact that he ultimately knew his heart belonged to Bonnie had me swooning!”

-Ana of The Book Hookup

 “I adored this couple, they have such a bantering, loving relationship even before that “love” word entered.  If you love a romance with a bit of angst, a secret that changes everything, lively characters and a definite slow burn sizzle then you’ll want to pick up SMITTEN BY THE BRIT.”

-Keeper Bookshelf

“The strong interactions between the five friends and the life decisions to be made between Bonnie and Theo are engaging enough to make this an excellent read. There is plenty of story line along with the steam, to make this one of my top reads this year. Find a place on your shelf for this one.

-My Bag of Books

“I absolutely adored SMITTEN BY THE BRIT. The characters were real and flawed with relateable hangups and frustrations. I loved the humor, chemistry and the friendships. This is the kind of story that you will be able to devour in a single sitting and that leave you with a smile on your face.”

-Once Upon a Book Blog

“As you can imagine, the romance in this book was just pure deliciousness. I was anticipating the romance occurring fairly quickly as Melonie Johnson had built up their chemistry in Getting Hot with a Scot, so imagine my pleasant surprise when she delivered with a slow-burn relationship. The romantic tension between them only seemed to amplify as the story progressed and I was here for it. I loved watching Theo and Bonnie get to know each other on both an emotional and physical level. “

-The Infinite Limits of Love

“I liked Bonnie and Theo immensely and their story was quite wonderful.  Between their general attitudes and tendencies and the constant literary references, I, like Bonnie was quite smitten and more than ready for book three. “

-Rolo Polo Book Blog

“The relationship between Bonnie and Theo just seems so natural. The chemistry is exploding off the pages.”

-Book, Line, & Sinker

“This is the second book in Johnson’s new Sometimes in Love series and I have to tell you I’m really enjoying this series so far. The two books I’ve read so far have been well-written with characters you want to know more about.  Up this time it’s Bonnie’s and Theo’s turn. These two are so cute and fun together and you really enjoy their ride. “

-Romancing the Readers

“This was a fun, sexy read and I highly recommend it.”

-Stacy Alesi’s BookBitch

This book — their story — has it all. Bonnie is smart, funny, passionate, independent, and determined. Theo is charming, thoughtful, intelligent, committed, drop-dead sexy. Their journey is an emotional roller coaster full of highs and lows, twists and turns, happiness and heartbreak, doubts and fears. The climax is devastating (I cried, and I rarely cry over books anymore), but the resolution is positively glorious. I will most definitely read Smitten by the Brit again (and again!) because it completely consumed me and left me wanting more of two characters I’m sure I’ll never forget. A word of caution though: although it holds up as a standalone novel, to experience Theo and Bonnie’s relationship from the very beginning — and avoid spoilers for the first book, Getting Hot with the Scot — read the series in order. Then relax with a cup of tea or a glass of wine, put out the Do Not Disturb sign, and enjoy this sweet, romantic treasure.

-Paula Radell

“I didn’t think this author could make this book better than the first one “Getting Hot with the Scot” but I was so so wrong.  This one had me by the heartstrings to the very end.  All the literature references in this book add such a great effect to this story while it helped you connect with the characters even further.  Theo Wharton was a true gentleman throughout this book who I believe all man should take note of.  His compassion, understanding, patience, care, manners, respect, loyalty and love his show to all from family to friends even over his own feeling. This book can be read as a stand-alone or like myself read as part of this great series of book by this great new author. “

Reading for the Love of Books

“If you were a fan of GETTING HOT WITH THE SCOT, well there is more! Bonnie and Theo. I love Bonnie and her Austen obsession. And Theo is such a gentleman and determined to do the right thing. But you know what they say about good intentions.”

-Pirate Patty Reviews

“SMITTEN BY THE BRIT was a sweet tender romance written well by Melonie Johnson. If you love contemporary romance, with a flair that is similar to historical romances, I suggest you read this fun enjoyable book. “

-The Reading Cafe

Bonnie is a Bardolator, Theo is a reluctant Duke. Whenever a main character is a bookworm, I always feels so connected. It’s an easy connection, and because in this case, it was, I was able to relate to Bonnie better. A lot about Bonnie’s life hits the points, and I enjoyed my time getting to know her. Theo. Well, Theo is dashing! He has a good heart and it shows. He shows up, he comforts, and he is an all-around good friend. If two people didn’t deserve better counterparts, then I don’t know what is wrong in this world. To be honest, I wasn’t sure if their romance would compare to Cassie and Logan, but let me tell you, IT WAS AMAZING. There were so many scenes that I were delicious and others that were heartfelt. Overall Smitten by the Brit was a great read that everyone needs in their libraries!

-BookChelle

“I was drawn to Bonnie’s quirky personality. I did like Theo’s manners but he got a big slap for “disappearing” on her for a few weeks. But like any fairytale we get to see a change of heart and a big HEA for everyone. Overall it was quite enjoyable read.”

-OMG READS

” I liked the friendships that were exhibited between the characters in this story and I definitely loved the positive female relationships between Bonnie and her pals. They had me cracking up and getting all misty eyed at different intervals. Without a doubt, I felt for Bonnie’s situation in this story but I liked that she was able to move on from her pain and allow herself an opportunity at happiness.”

-The Genre Minx Book Reviews

Once Upon a Bad Boy

“The third book in the Sometimes In Love series is a slam dunk, tantalizing romance. ONCE UPON A BAD BOY is a sexy cocktail of vulnerability and strength. Just like a tequila sunrise with style!”

Romance Junkies

“ONCE UPON A BAD BOY is both a heart-breaking and heart-warming story readers will enjoy. “ (A Perfect 10)

-Romance Reviews Today

Once Upon a Bad Boy is ultimately a celebration of choice and of a woman’s right to determine the direction her life takes. Sadie models that strength in how she lived her past, how she handles her present and how she builds a new future with Bo.

-Bookpage

“An emotional and rewarding contemporary romance!”

-Fresh Fiction

“Powerful, relatable and memorable. Johnson delivers a wonderfully romantic and deeply satisfying love story with endearing characters and lighthearted humor, while deftly delving into relevant issues with compassion and gravity.”

-Frolic

Once Upon a Bad Boy is a second chance romance, and a very good one at that. I found the chemistry and angst between the two to be the perfect balance. I could really feel the intensity of their relationship through the pages. My heart ached and soared with these two. They obviously had to work through their past and also through the new obstacles in their relationship. When they were together, Sadie and Bo were really good together. Their emotional connection with each other was especially beautifully written. I’ve also got to give a shoutout to the amazing female friendships in this book – I love this gang of girls so much!”

-The Infinite Limits of Love

“This was my first Melonie Johnson book, and *cue dramatic voice*: it won’t be my last. It was hot and passionate. It was a celebration of female friendship, with friends who support one another and also tease, which rang authentic to me. And Johnson is a skilled writer, thoughtfully rendering the evolution of Sadie and Bo’s relationship (and beautifully showing how their feelings were/are possible of existing over a period of time, despite their years apart) and writing thrilling stunt scenes that are exciting and cinematic.”

-The Naptime Writer

“Johnson is an awesome story teller and knows how to write the sexy reads we love. Overall, this book is perfect for anyone that loves the second chance romance storyline. Sweet, hot, and dreamy!”

-A Midlife Wife

“This is the third book in this series and I’ve enjoyed them all.  The characters are fantastic and the writing is wonderful.  Ms. Johnson has a way of pulling the reader into her story and making you feel less like a bystander and more like a participant in these characters’ lives.  I enjoyed the road to Sadie and Bo’s HEA and can’t wait to see what this author has is store for me next.  This is definitely a great series…give it a try!”

-The Book HookUp

“This book has every contemporary romance trope I love: star-studded, second chance, first love. Seriously y’all I was hooked from the start and finished the book in less than 24 hours. If I hadn’t desperately needed sleep, I would’ve finished it in one sitting.” 

-Mom With a Reading Problem

“If you love contemporary romance with a bit of everything, great couple, wonderful secondary characters, I suggest you read this fun enjoyable book.”

-The Reading Cafe

“Sadie and Bo are by far my favorite series couple and it has everything to do with their shared past (aaaw, second chance romance!) and they’re deliciously naughty, naughty bits!!  I love past meets present books and this book certainly satisfied that love. ”

-Rolo Polo Book Blog

“ONCE UPON A BAD BOY… melted my heart, bruised it and healed it back up whole once again.  And that’s saying a lot right there. I have loved the entire Sometimes in Love series, it’s been a great girl’s group of friends series with each of the ladies finding their own happily ever after.  I would not hesitate to recommend either ONCE UPON A BAD BOY or the entire series to any Romance reader, no matter your preferred genre.”

Keeper Bookshelf

“It’s such a cozy feeling reading about characters that have such great chemistry with each other. The friendships are where it’s at, let me say. Especially between our heroine, Sadie and one of her besties Ana. Ana is a hoot. All in all, this was a fun and fast paced read with some good drama thrown in.”

-Lampshade Reader

“What follows is a hot romance that is blush-worthy. I loved the back and forth between Bo and Sadie, the romance was predictable but sweet and the story-line took second place to the love story but that was not a bad thing.”

-Fictional Reviewer

“Sadie’s inner monologue was a voice that I really got to know well. She worked hard, and she seemed earnest so that made me really want to get to know her. Bo was someone that I enjoyed from the beginning. He’s broody in a way that most males in romances are. He was familiar in a specific sort of way. Together, I enjoyed them. There was just a bit of angst in this rekindled relationship. I enjoyed their secrets, but most importantly, I really enjoyed how they got through their hardships. Overall, I enjoyed this, and the series. Looking forward to more from Melonie Johnson!”

Bookchelle

“I really liked this story, it was fast moving and it kept at an excellent pace right to the very end!  The detail was just right for me and I thought that the characters were strong and gave you the urge to root for them to come out the other side together.  Five stars from me for this one, very enjoyable and very highly recommended!!”

-Donna’s Book Blog

“If you enjoy second chance romances, this is a book for you. It’s well-written with great characters, a bit of mystery, and just the right amount of angst. “

-Harlequin Junkies

“You just know that a book titled Once Upon a Bad Boy is going to be delicious! Melonie Johnson gave us a sweet and sexy second chance “Hollywood” romance. This author has quickly become an author that I NEED to read! I absolutely ADORE her writing. “

-Love Affair with Fiction

“Readers of this tale are sure to experience a roller coaster of emotions from one extreme to another. Endearing characters, emotionally charged, heartbreak, playful humor, second chances, gripping topics, scorching romance … you will find all of this and more within these pages.

-Reader’s Edyn