New York Times bestselling author Lexi Blake’s heartfelt contemporary romance set in Louisiana’s Butterfly Bayou Roxanne King left the big city looking for a simpler life, but after years of proving herself on a SWAT team in New York City, being deputy in a sleepy Louisiana parish is something of an adjustment. She’s settling in, but she knows she made some mistakes in the beginning–Zep Guidry … the beginning–Zep Guidry being the worst of them. Zep drifts through life on his looks and Cajun charm. Roxie learned the hard way he’s not for her.
Zep is a man who knows what he wants, and what he wants is Roxie. He’s just not sure how to get her. They spent one hot night together a year before and now all the lovely deputy seems interested in doing to him is arresting him. He’s not used to a woman he can’t charm, but Roxie seems immune. He’s determined to win her back by any means necessary. Including becoming the kind of man she desires.
And when Roxie’s past comes calling, it might be the opportunity Zep needs to show Roxie that the town bad boy might just be the man of her dreams.
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This is Zep and Roxie’s story. In the previous books, Zep was portrayed as a happy playboy who drank to much and was silly. The Zep in this book had so many layers not even his family was aware of them. I thought it was Interesting that really only two people were aware of his layers, but others came to see a very different Zep.
I was glad to see Roxie portrayed as a strong woman who stood her ground in a male dominated field. The whole conversation with Joel at the beginning of the book left me kind of stunned, considering their relationship. Roxie was used to fighting her own battles and never expected Zep to stand solidly with her to support her with her family. I was so glad when Roxie’s started to see the real Zep.
This book was sweet, romantic, sexy, and funny. I loved the characters in Butterfly Bayou including Otis. I listened to the audiobook and really enjoyed it.
Roxie moved to the Bayou from NYC police department. She is working as a deputy and had a one night stand with Zep. She has a hard time fitting into the small southern town.
Zep has always put his family first instead of his wants. People think he is not too bright and just a good time guy. He really had plans to attend college to work as a Wildlife Ranger, but he’s needed at home.
Roxie answer a call and Zep shows up since he is the resident animal tamer. Zep starts working with Roxie to determine who is sneaking around town.
Roxie has been avoiding her family in NYC until they show up in town for her birthday and have the whole B&B booked for a week. She enlist Zep to be her boyfriend for the week.
I have read all the Butterfly Bayou books and just love them.
Roxanne (Roxie) King left New York and is settling in to a simpler way of life as a deputy in a Louisiana parish, living in the small town of Pappilon. She’s aware that she made some mistakes initially and thinks one of those was Zep Guidry. Zep is a man who knows that he’s wanted Roxie from the first time he met her. When Roxie’s family comes for a visit, Zep pretends to be her boyfriend but can they make it something real?
I’ve really enjoyed this series and this book is no exception. I loved the story of Roxie and Zep, two people who have more to them than others realize. The book’s well-written with wonderful and realistic characters. I was drawn into the story from the beginning and kept hooked throughout, not wanting to put the book down. I’m very eager for the next book in this exceptional series which will have you feeling several emotions and bringing you through everything from laughter to tears. I highly recommend both book and series which I suggest you read in order for the most enjoyment and benefit even though the books could be read on their own.
This is a wonderful series and this book is a fantastic addition. While it works as a stand alone, I’m enjoying getting to know the citizens of Papillon in each book. Zip and Roxie have undeniable chemistry, although both pretend to ignore it. Once they acknowledge their attraction to each other, they also have to recognizable other truths. Opening up, owning the past, recognizing that dreams might change, and respecting each other’s decisions just may be the keys to happiness. It’s an excellent story and I’m excited for the next book!
One of the best romances I have read lately.
Doesn’t matter the genre, this authors is a must read for me. I am LOVING this series and this is the newest standalone in the series.
Zep and Roxie are LIFE.
I love. small town read and these two are electric. Zeo is the guy everything thinks they know when they have no idea, and Roxie is a cop. Bad Boy. Cop. See? You already know its going to be a fun read. Throw in all the fun that a small town brings and transport that town to the south. See where I’m going with this? I loved it.
Lexi brings the steam as always in this sweet southern small town romance. You fall in love with the town and all the characters you meet. I can’t wait to read another book in this series.
Loved this sexy, fun, action packed journey filled with witty and engaging charters, exciting twists and undeniable passion. It was an edge of your seat, emotionally thrilling roller-coaster ride from beginning to end and so hard to put down. Love the heartwarming small-town in this highly entertaining series.
5 Stars
This was the Louisiana romance I was waiting for! Roxie and Zep have a different kind of relationship. When foreplay involves getting arrested by the woman you admire and find irresistible, there is no question the road to happily ever after is going to be amusing. Zep is never taken seriously, it seems as though no one sees the amazing man underneath the smiles and the sexy exterior. Roxie is the serious former “city cop” who has made a temporary home in Papillon. When Roxie’s family, and her past, can no longer the ignored, Zep steps in and brings her more joy, affection and passion than she allowed herself to ever experience before. Resisting him after one night wasn’t so difficult, but after a week with him, it isn’t so easy. Throw in an adorable puppy, a black cat and the one man who can charm the animals as easily as he can his favorite officer of the law, and you have a story that you will adore from beginning to end!
Cara – Alphas Do It Better Book Blog
Roxanne King left New York a mess. Divorced and jobless. Blackballed from big city police departments. She landed in Papillon due to a connection with the sheriff, but never intended for her stay to be permanent.
Zep Guidry. Around Papillon, he’s the bad boy, the pretty boy, the guy with no ambition that gets by on his looks and charms. But it’s all an act. He is a caregiver and would do anything and give up everything for those he cares about.
One night together wasn’t enough . . . But can Zep convince Roxie to give him more?
This story was absolutely perfect! Zep was everything. He just needed to understand his self worth so others could as well. And, Roxie was a study in figuring out what you really want out of life and learning what makes you happy. I adored when she realized that her impact in a sleepy little town was much greater than she ever could have imagined.
I love them as a couple. Roxie standing up for Zep. Zep helping Roxie see just how well she does fit in. Arrests as flirting and foreplay. Real emotions. Mythical creatures and investigations. Bayou Dreaming had everything you didn’t expect and I loved every minute of it! 5 stars!
4.5 Stars
Lexi Blake knows how to make you fall in love.
Bayou Dreaming is a fun small town romance with all the bells and whistles. Towns folks in everyone’s business, gossip is almost like news, a few folks have lost more than a few marbles, yet everything is not as it seems.
Zep has given the town the perception that he has one way when he is really so much more than what he lets people see. One of those people you truly don’t judge a book by the cover. With a heart as big as a Bayou itself and caring kindness that will hit you from left field. The man has more passion and compassion that you could ever imagine. I was intrigued with him from the first book of the series and now I think I might actually be in love with Zep.
Roxie is new to small town life but she is making it her new home. The newest deputy to the Butterfly Bayou has a story that comes with her. It’s smart and courageous. A woman willing to stand up for herself but has a hard time giving into what she wants.
I loved Bayou Dreaming. Zep’s bad boy reputation has left a lasting impression on Deputy Roxie. I loved their playful banter. One night together changes them both. Roxie soon learns there is way more Zep than she realizes. Roxie’s use of her authority with Zep is as cute as it is funny. The two are a great match, their chemistry is incredible and their passion is pure. Bayou Dreaming is a captivating read with amazing romance, some colorful characters. Lexi Blake captures readers once again with an entertaining and intriguing story with a crazy little town that just about anything could happen, and sometimes does.
4.5 stars
This is the third book in the Butterfly Bayou series and it is a warm, heartfelt romance. It can be read as a standalone. What I love about this author is her ability to create these hometowns that anyone would love to visit or live there. It brings back those feelings of “Bliss” that you can only get from a place where everyone knows everyone and you really do have a community that looks out for you. Zep is the town’s bad boy who wants Roxie, the new female police officer, like no one’s business. It does not help that Roxie had a one-night affair with Zep and is now harboring feelings for him that she does not want to have. In order to keep her feelings in check, she winds up arresting Zep just about every chance she gets. In some ways, I was reminded of young children who act up in class when a boy or girl has a crush on the other. Overall, this is a well written story that showcases the growth between Zep and Roxie and gives them both a place to belong. I won a copy of this e-book from a Goodreads giveaway.
Bayou Dreaming by Lexi Blake, book three in her Butterfly Bayou series is a wonderful, emotional, and enjoyable story. Roxanne King left New York City and its police force for a simpler life but being a deputy in a small, sleepy Louisiana parish was definitely a bit of an adjustment. She believes she’s settled in, but hasn’t really made friends or become part of the community. She has one foot out the door, hoping to join the force in a larger city. She knows she made mistakes since her in her arrival in town, the biggest, and possibly worst being Zep Guidry; especially as they spent a hot night together a year ago. Roxie believes that Zep drifts through life on his good looks and Cajun charm; not the man for her. Zep knows what he wants, and he wants Roxie; he just isn’t sure how to get her. He’s not used to a woman he can’t charm and Roxie acts as if she’s immune. It seems like the only time he spends any time with her is when she’s arresting him. Zep is determined to win her over by any means necessary; even if he has to become the kind of man she desires. When Roxie’s parents surprise her with a visit Zep takes advantage of the chance to show her that the town bad boy just might be the man of her dreams. Spending quality time together and burning up the sheets, these two have off the charts electricity and chemistry. Following his heart, Zep is determined to prove to Roxie that there is more to him than he lets on. With the help of some crazy, loving, meddling, locals, Zep just might be able to convince Roxie he’s the perfect man for her.
Ms. Blake wrote an emotional and wonderful story that should definitely not be missed. She provided a tale that sizzled with magnetism, scorch the sheets chemistry, witty banter, and memorable characters keeping me flipping the pages of this intense and emotional romance. I totally enjoyed and highly recommend Bayou Dreaming to other readers.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
I’ve been waiting for Zep’s book since the first book in the series. I knew I was going to love Zep and Roxie and I was proved right. As soon as I started this book I couldn’t put it down. It had me right off the bat and I was already laughing. I enjoy the humor in this one. Roxie’s family has a little growing up to do because at first I wasn’t a huge fan. Then you see them put the effort in. I so loved Zep and Roxie together. They may be opposites on paper, but they fit like puzzle pieces. There is a lot more to Zep than meets the eye and what his reputation leads you to believe. That man has so much heart and truly cares for the people that live in his hometown. I mean you can’t go wrong with a guy who treats animals like family. Animals are a good judge of character. This book makes you root for Zep to finally get to live out his dreams for a change. He definitely deserves it. Roxie may have ran to the Bayou to get away from life, but the Bayou is going to work it’s magic. This is a must read!!
It was so great going back to Butterfly Bayou in Lexi Blake’s Bayou Dreaming.This time in addition to all the quirky denizens of Papillion, she’s added a mythical beast and amateur film maker to the mix. Chuckles abound throughout the story.
I always liked Zep Guidry in previous Bayou books. He was a charmer with good looks and a ready smile. But, in Bayou Dreaming I absolutely fell in love with him. He proves time and again how well he knows Papillion and its people, his generosity of spirit and his love of all forms of critters. Deputy Roxanne King is one tough cookie and seemingly remains aloof just doing her job. She doesn’t realize how important and accepted she’s become to Papillion. Now she and Zep are thrown together and they, well she, gives into her feelings. He’s always been there. Does their relationship bloom or never get off the ground because it has an end date?
“Zep was a work of art. Six foot three, with broad shoulders and muscle she wasn’t sure how he’d earned, Zep was simply the most beautiful man she’d ever met.”
Roxanne could not focus on the way the man looked. Or how those muscles felt. No, he was bad news. He was a one night distraction. Nothing more. Roxanne had a career that she planned on enjoying away from this little town. A town she hadn’t planned on being in, but circumstances change. She couldn’t let anything distract her from her plan to get back to a bigger city.
Zep has been attracted to Roxanne since she came into town. They had one night, and that was not enough for him. He knows how people see him. Laid back, player, never serious. But he is serious. He is serious about his feelings for Roxanne. He’s serious about his love of animals and how he wished he could put that into an actual paying job.
Roxanne hadn’t meant to fall for the town or Zep. But things change. Sometimes they change for the better!
I loved this book. I didn’t read the first 2 in the series, and I didn’t need to for me to read this book. I loved this story so much, I’m definitely going back to read the others!!
Yes! This series keeps getting better and better. I LOVED Roxie and Zep from the very first book and I’m thrilled that we have finally gotten their story.
Deputy Roxanne King is fairly new to Papillon (Butterfly Bayou) Louisiana upon her arrival a little over a year ago she had a one night stand with the small town’s playboy, Zep Guidry, only to realize she had feelings for him. What’s the best way to combat those useless feelings? Arrest him every chance you get…LOL
I swear watching these two over the last two books was a riot, I knew once we had their story it would be a good one and it really was beyond what I had expected. There is so much that we didn’t know about either of them and it really shed a lot of light on the way they were. I loved the chemistry they had together. There is a bit of angst but a lot of steam in this read. This is definitely my favorite book in the series to date.
If you enjoy small town romances, the fake relationship trope, or second chance romances I would recommend this book to you.
Happy Reading!!!
5 stars
Roxanne was a member of the SWAT team in New York until she wouldn’t let her supervisor get away with some of the things he was saying and doing. Her husband wouldn’t support her so she divorced him and moved to a little town in Louisiana. It was meant to be a stopover to one of the big city departments but it’s been three years and she’s a deputy. It took some adjusting because she wasn’t used to southern people. Zep is handsome and a playboy but he’s had his eyes on Roxie since he first saw her. Roxie thinks he can’t settle down and parties all the time. She is constantly arresting Zep and throwing him in jail. They spent one night together but Zep can’t get her to go out with him. When Roxie’s parents surprise her, she talks Zep into being her fake boyfriend. He thinks this is his chance to show Roxie how good they could be. She gives him the week, when she finds out why her parents are really there, will Zep lose her forever?
Absolutely hilarious. I laughed until I had tears running down my face. I couldn’t believe some of the stuff poor Roxie had to put up with. There are nosy townspeople, a snobbish family, a puppy, and a black cat. Neither really sees themselves as a good bet but they are perfect for each other, if they can get over their obstacles. THIS IS ONE BOOK NOT TO BE MISSED!
* Voluntarily read and reviewed this for NetGalley *
I was so happy to return to Butterfly Bayou in Lexi Blake’s Bayou Dreaming. I just love these small-town romances set in Louisiana. The characters are fun, colorful, and just good people. Like, I would love to be able to visit there, stay at the B&B, and just hang with the people of this town!
Bayou Dreaming is an opposites-attract romance setting up the town’s bad boy with the only female officer. You know the sparks are about to fly when they come close to one another.
I absolutely love both of these misunderstood characters. They are both so much deeper than the image they project to others and even how they see themselves. Everyone sees Zep as a man who can and does get any woman he wants, a man who doesn’t take life seriously and never finishes what he starts. This image is so prominent in their minds that they forget to look deeper to the man who is always there to help anyone who needs, who will put his needs second to someone he loves because he would rather be there for them. Roxanne has kept everyone at a distance since she moved from New York City to Papillion, Louisiana. She sees this as a temporary stopover, so she keeps her walls sky high and just does her job.
What starts off as a fake romance quickly morphs into the real deal. These two were absolutely meant for each other. I truly enjoyed watching them lower their walls as they let each other into their hearts. As they began to see themselves through the other’s eyes. The growth that these two had was so wonderful to see.
Each book in this series can easily be read alone, but once you read one, you will be like me and be greedy and want more and more! This small-town romance will hook you from the start with its sweet and sexy tale of two people who were meant to be together.
What you see isn’t what you get, or maybe, still waters run deep? Either works to describe both Zep and Roxie. They aren’t what they seem, but they are happy to put forth what other expect. The problem is that it holds them back from being who truly makes them happy, and hurts when others who care about them don’t see the deeper them. The real them. Little by little, these two learn to trust the other, and then they start to see what was already right in front of them. Sweet at times, sexy at others, and emotions always right on the surface, these two were made for each other!
Lexi Blake is one of my go-to authors because she weaves worlds that I want to live in. This book is a great example of why I adore her. Zep and Roxie fit together wonderfully and the characters had such great depth. This world is easy to get lost in and I definitely recommend reading this entire series.