Meet Jackson McKay…There’s only one thing you need to know about me. I’m a cold hearted bastard that will never love you the way you deserve. And I’m sorry to say, bastard beats nice guy, every time.I never lie. Never deceive. I lay out exactly what will happen. My only promise is that I’m a one-night stand. That this is will be our first and last time together. Then I stand back and let them … I stand back and let them walk. But they never do. Because they all want to believe they will be the one to change me.
And, Gwen Johnson, the woman that will be his demise…
There’s only one thing you need to know about me. What I want, I get. End of story. I didn’t come to own one of the best restaurants in the city of Chicago before the age of thirty by taking no for an answer. And what I want is for this cold hearted bastard, and culinary genius, to work for me. I don’t care how difficult he is. I’m going to figure out what makes him tick, what he needs most, and then I’m going to go in for the kill.
The way I see it, you either own it, or it owns you…
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I got hooked on Jennifer Dawson’s book through Crave, and read all of her Undone series quickly followed by Love and Other Disasters. In a genre chock-full of quick, throw-away read-and-forget books that scratch an itch, or let you relax without being mentally taxing, she stands out for writing stories that stay with you. Cold Hearted Bastard continues this trend. I have trouble saying that it’s her best book to date, but only because I am so firmly attached to the characters she brought to life in the Undone series. I have no compunction however with calling Cold Hearted Bastard to be smack on the same level. Her heroes and heroines are all strong, complex, and flawed. Most importantly, they resonate with you even if their life circumstances are miles away from your own.
First of all, I’m delighted to see Gwen step forward and claim her own story after being in the background of the Undone series. I love seeing the reverse of the friendship between her and Jillian. As for Jackson, he really is a guy you love to hate. He makes you grind your teeth together. And Jennifer manages to perfectly pitch the tension of the novel that you spend a large portion of the book wondering what secret he’s hiding without ever tipping over that line of frustration of “oh enough already, just tell us the big damn secret”. And when it does come, it really takes your breath away. I had all sorts of theories but I wasn’t prepared for what actually happened. The story instantly took on an additional poignant element, breaking new ground that the Undone series didn’t touch.
One of the strong aspects of character exploration in this story is of course Jackson’s character and how it was shaped by his childhood and how that continues to drive his persona and his choices. Anything more than this would be a spoiler but this to me was one of the strongest pillars of the story and has much to do with the big twist.
Beyond the big reveal, Jennifer also finds the perfect balance of tension in the relationship between Jackson and Gwen, throwing obstacles and stubborness in their way without becoming absurd. Eventually when Jackson makes his decision to pursue Gwen, she does not capitulate easily and I liked that. I liked that she felt the need to protect herself. It added that extra element of realism to the relationship which faced significant real-life problems that couples often struggle to overcome.
Finally, I have to tip my hat to Jennifer for managing to so elegantly write a book where cooking turns into a sexual metaphor. Before Jackson and Gwen give in to their chemistry, they cook for each other, and before they manage to do anything more than make out, you feel like they’ve exchanged the most intimate parts of themselves through their food. It has the potential to be so corny but Jennifer makes it a delicate and vulnerable act. Almost as any artist sharing their creation with another person whose opinion means more to them than they would like to admit – she makes the Jackson’s sandwich for Gwen take on so much more meaning than just a nice gesture.
I had very high expectations for this book, and I’m delighted to say they were fully met. I can’t wait to read more. The secondary characters are intriguing in their own right and I look forward to hearing their stories. Beau in particular, I believe, deserves his own much-delayed, happy ending. The plot is not over-contrived, and as will all of Jennifer’s books, the character development is what drives the story, not sex. Don’t get me wrong, the chemistry in the book is scorching and explosive, but it’s like… a garnish to a perfectly balanced plate. Not the main feature. Hahaha see what I did there? Culinary puns.
Disclaimer: I received an advanced review copy of the book from the author, but it was actually after I already pre-ordered my own copy. I swear she didn’t insist on a glowing review. In fact, she gave me a copy to cheer me up and let me off the hook from doing a review completely, but after I read the book I couldn’t NOT write a review because it’s such a fantastic read.
Jackson is an in demand former chef who returned home because it was something he had to do. Many restaurant owners and high powered food industry personnel have some to Louisiana to try and lure him to the big city restaurants. He is a self proclaimed man whore who lets each conquest know exactly where he stands beforehand, to give them a chance to decline the encounter. He can’t be involved right now, he has more important things in his life to focus on. When a tall redhead walks into his bar he feels the connection instantly. He knows she will be the one to break him.
Gwen is used to getting what she wants, when she wants it. And right now she wants Jackson to be head chef at a new restaurant she wants to open. When she sees him in person though she realizes all the photos she’s seen haven’t done him justice. Their eyes lock across the bar and she feels it through her body. This isn’t going to end well.
Jackson and Gwen realize a few things; they have amazing chemistry, they want more than one night, and neither is going to change their minds about her proposition. Gwen knows that Jackson won’t leave his hometown but she doesn’t know why. They decide to make the most of their 2 weeks and that’s it for their relationship. Gwen falls fast though going against her better judgment and decides to leave early. Jackson’s family steps in as they’ve never seen Jackson so affected by a woman. When Gwen goes to his family home, she learns why he can never leave.
Jackson fought the good fight but wasn’t able to outrun his feelings for Gwen. She helps him see that there is more to life than just being a man whore. Will he be willing to compromise his life to have happiness though?
This was the first novel I’ve read by the author and I read it all in one sitting front to back. I was drawn in by the great storyline and all the hot, hot, hot, full on chemistry scenes. Solid 4 ½ stars for a cold hearted bastard no more. I received an advance copy without expectation for review, any and all opinions expressed are my own.
This was soooooo good until the story reaches day five and then bang! The heroine admitted she’s falling for our brooding hero. Like nooooo! Why would you add this instant love bullshit into the mixed and ruin a perfectly fine story?!
The banter, sexy ass chemistry, oozing tension that could be cut with a knife and the overall direction the story was going was perfect until we hit that mark. It was so disappointing because I was hoping for built-up, more heart to heart conversations and as much I hate to say it, I was let down by how quickly their feelings developed.
Now I know I sound absurd but I have never been a fan of instant love romances and am immediately turned off when I come across it in any book, popular or not. This unfavorable trope can easily make or break a novel, hinder reading experience and general thoughts on the characters and their relationships for me
Nonetheless, after that instant love shit hit the fan, it just felt like I was just going through the motions. I was no longer invested in Jackson and Gwen’s story and the secret out hero was hiding but would still recommend this novel because if you ignore that particular trope that makes me stir crazy, it has all the elements that make a good romance contemporary read.
Super-charged full of sexy chemistry and continuous action, and drama, “Cold Hearted Bastard” by Jennifer Dawson is a must-read for those wanting a thrill ride of a romance. It’s has complex characters, an exciting storyline which just grabs you and doesn’t let go till the very end, and gripping sexual tension between the characters – what more could you want in a book? Happy reading everyone!
First book in the series and the first I have read from this author and I enjoyed it. Loved Jackson and Gwen. They had great chemistry between them. Great characters and good storyline that leads to an HEA.
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
If you are looking for a hot read with two determined main characters, then this book is for you.
Jackson McKay’s culinary skills are beyond amazing. He was on his way to being one of the best chef’s in the nation, until he fell in love with his new daughter. Moving back home was a no-brainer, knowing that his family would provide a ton of support and love. Jackson is a very private person and sharing his life with someone is something he has no desire to pursue. He has become a love ’em and leave ’em type guy, and always ensures his “dates” that he is unavailable for anything more than one hot night of sexual passion. Then Gwen Johnson pops into his workplace, and all bets are off.
Gwen is a successful chef and restaurateur in Chicago. She wants Jackson for her latest culinary endeavor, and will do whatever it takes to employ him. Gwen always gets what she wants and Jackson is it. Little did she know that he would become much more than a conquest.
Author Jennifer Dawson has another winner with Cold Hearted Bastard, the first book from her Bastard series. Jackson and Gwen are great together, as they discover their true selves while spending time together. Their sexy times are steamy, as they begin to fall in love. Overall, a solid romantic read.
Complimentary copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley.
I thoroughly enjoyed this intense, sexually charged story about Jackson and Gwen. From the moment they meet, they are irresistibly attracted to each other, even though they try to fight the attraction. They are meant to be together and are a perfect match for each other.
Gwen seeks Jackson out because she wants him as the head chef for her newest restaurant. When Jackson refuses, Gwen makes it her mission to convince him to change his mind. Gwen has never met anyone like Jackson before and she can’t seem to help herself from falling for him. She knows she is making the wrong decisions but she is drawn to him and just can’t stay away. Jackson is a good guy on the inside. He is loyal and protective and willing to sacrifice himself for those he loves.
I enjoyed this entertaining story about Jackson and Gwen. I liked both characters and found it easy to connect to them. From the moment the first meet, they are drawn to each other. They feel like they are discovering their soulmate, their missing piece. Everyone can feel the sparks flying when they are together and they have an intensely sexual relationship. However, there are secrets and issues to work through before they can be together. I enjoyed taking the journey with them and you will too.
Passionate and volatile:
Gwen and Jackson have an intensely strong attraction to one another but the question is whether she can melt his heart enough to make room for something real. A long term relationship seems impossible as Gwen has come down from Chicago to try to lure Jackson into returning to work for her, however he has commitments and secrets which prevent him from leaving. I’m not a fan of novels about insta-lust and one night stands so I was pleased when things finally progressed beyond that, although their journey is a rocky one. Jackson’s grand gesture at the end was adorable!
Whilst an enjoyable read, there were a couple of things that I didn’t like such as the overemphasis on how amazingly good looking they each were as if outward appearance is of utmost importance. Also a mother was blamed and held accountable for giving her child cerebral palsy but this is medically inaccurate. However overall this was an engaging, entertaining and steamy romance and a great start to a new series.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.
This was my first book by this author and I was pleasantly surprised. Jackson was most certainly cold-hearted but the instant he and Gwen met there was a chemistry between them that was undeniable. Under his cold heart, there was a broken man that started to change the moment he met Gwen. This book pulled at my heartstrings, I will be checking out more titles by this author.
This was my first Jennifer Dawson’s book, and won’t be my last! Cold Hearted Bastard is the first book in the Bastard Series. Jackson and Gwen’s story is beautifully written, sweet, very sexy, and captivating .Jackson is handsome, and intriguing. Gwen is beautiful, strong, independent, and caring. They share an instant attraction, and a sizzling chemistry. The secondary characters are great, and they have an important part in this story. Gwen’s friends are hilarious, and amazing. I’m glad Gwen has a friend like Jillian in her life. This woman is caring, and supportive. The storyline has some twists and turns, heartbreaking and heartwarming afterward. I love the ending! I enjoyed it and I highly recommend it. I wish to have this Series in audiobook. Looking forward to read the next book in the Series, Arrogant Bastard, Cat’s story. And I wish to have Wyatt’s story after that! I also need to read the Undone Series, to know more about Gwen’s friends!
HOT! Loved it. Stayed up until 4am because I couldn’t put it down. He may be a Cold Hearted Bastard, but every woman wants him. Can he be claimed? I don’t want to give anything away! Jennifer Dawson knows how to make you feel like your there.
I have been a fan of Jennifer Dawson for a long time and Cold-Hearted Bastard is THE BEST book she has written to date!! That is saying a lot since I have enjoyed and cheered all of them! But good lord this book was everything I love in a novel. A mean, moody, broody alpha-hole? Check! A sassy, take charge woman who WILL bring a man to his needs? Double Check! Gwen and Jackson were absolutely magnificent. Their banter was fire but their chemistry was seriously combustible. This book was fiery and addicting and so emotional! I read it in one sitting and never wanted it to end!!
When Gwen Johnson goes on a quest to recruit acclaimed chef Jackson McKay to head her new restaurant, she never expected the reclusive manwhore former chef to rock her whole world and everything she thought she wanted. But when secrets come to light will Gwen be able to get this coldhearted “one and done” player to give them a chance?
GAH!! Firstly, right off the bat you need to pick up this title just by the author’s trusted name alone. Dawson’s books are absolutely incredible. But secondly, people you seriously have no idea what kind of chemistry you’re gonna get when you start this book! This was probably hands down one of the hottest books I’ve read. It was filled with scorching sexual tension, banter, and sexytimes. Lord does this man know what he’s doing. But not to be outdone, the emotional aspect of this book took me by surprise. This is legit the angstiest book this author has written as I felt my eyes water right for Gwen and Jackson’s pain, sadness and regret. This was so phenomenally written and I was consumed with every word!
All in all, this was another fantastic Dawson book to get lost in. And a delightful bonus? Fans of this author’s Undone series will love the cameos from familiar faces and appreciate the return of Jillian Santora, Gwen’s sassy spitfire of a bestfriend. I can’t wait for the next book in this delightful new series! Bravo! 5 stars! ~Ratula
Jackson McKay is a talented chef and sex on legs. There’s a mystery surrounding him since he dropped out of sight at the peak of his celebrity. The mystery only deepens when it’s discovered that he retreated to small town Louisiana where he works in his uncle’s bar. He sleeps around, but never with the same woman twice. He tells them in advance but they rarely listen. They think that makes him a bastard and maybe it does but it also makes him honest.
It’s not a book about the south without a meddling family. His is great and if my family is any indication, very true to life. They scheme and when nothing else will do, they push the issue. It leads to a lot of fun, but they also hold the key to the mystery.
Gwen Johnson is a Chicago chef, restauranteur, and happens to be bored silly. She wants a new challenge, something that causes her to jump out of bed in the morning. Her life is too routine. She decides that she needs a new restaurant. In opening her new venture she has researched chefs and wants Jackson. She won’t take no for an answer, so she tracks him down with the full support of her best friend, Jillian. She is always there, providing comfort, laughter, and a boot in the ass when necessary.
The push/pull was delicious agony. It was highlighted and showcased expertly. Neither were willing to give an inch and it leads to angry words, hurt feelings and a big blow up complete with a slamming door. Never fear though, there is an HEA worthy of the book.
I have to confess something before we go any further. I read Mrs. Dawson’s books because I love her style. They’re filled with conflict and drama and plenty of steam. And that’s great! But the real reason I read her books is because she makes me laugh like a lunatic that’s just escaped the asylum. I did it again with this book. The car scene just outside the bar, their blunt conversations, the dinner closer to the end of the book…I laughed so hard I’m sure my neighbors thought a hyena was roaming loose in the neighborhood.
I did find a few instances of words in the wrong places or skipped altogether but they were minor. For instance, leaving a the out or mixing up the order of words like saying, “Door open the please.”. Minor and easily understood. This is a new book and these things are common. I don’t deduct points for that in new releases.
Otherwise, this is a technically flawless book with two perfectly flawed people, steamy sex galore, and so many funny exchanges, I laughed until I cried and ached.
Can I recommend this book? Omg, yes! It was heartbreaking, hilarious, and hard to put down. I read it in one sitting and enjoyed myself so much I was upset it ended.
This book appears to be just about a strong willed woman and man who want each other sexually and are expected to combust when they come together, but the more you read, the story about a man and woman who intend to use each other, becomes so much more. Each character has so much more depth and layers than you expect and knocks you off your feet. It is like traveling down a tunnel with many twists and turns and you never know what to expect when you get out. jennifer Dawson succeeds in making you feel deeply for these characters and hungry for more.
Jennifer Dawson writes compelling anti-heroes, and I fell hard for her latest one in Cold Hearted Bastard. He’s a world-renowned chef, who is sexy, gruff, moody and sometimes a jerk. He suddenly fled his glamorous lifestyle and the public eye in order to return to his small Louisiana hometown, and no one knows why. She’s a brilliant restaurateur and chef from Chicago, who wants to convince him to work for her. They both believe that they’ll be the victor in this showdown but neither can control their smoking hot attraction. Make sure to have a fan close, because you will need it while reading this enemies-to-lovers romance.
This book had me tingling all over, in a good way! Sexual tension and attraction explodes right from the start. I love how Jackson and Gwen are both strong, determined people, which makes them fighting their attraction all that much hotter. Under all the steamy, hot, scenes is a beautiful, fierce love story. I would definitely recommend reading. I have loved all of Jennifer’s books that I have read.
The connection between Gwen and Jackson is so fucking hot!!!! I couldn’t put this book down! I highly recommend!!
Jennifer Dawson has done it again! She’s created another 5-Star read that I absolutely love! She has a way of creating characters that I just fall in love with. I felt like I became part of Gwen and Jackson – like I was experiencing everything they were. From the very beginning of the book, I could see them ending up together (even though it’s a romance and you kind of already guess that they will get their HEA). The situations they found themselves in just seemed so them and they just seemed to connect and be at peace in each other’s presence. The sex is hot and the food descriptions are mouth-watering. If you’ve read anything by Jennifer, you won’t want to miss this book! If you’ve not read Jennifer’s books, this is a great place to start. You can go back afterward and catch up with all her other works of art.
HOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT
I L*O*V*E*D this book! The characters were amazing and I experienced every emotion while reading which is seriously hard to accomplish, let alone accomplish well!
Gwen getting her story out there has been well worth the wait!!
Should be noted that this is the first book EVER that I have read start to finish in one sitting…
It is that good!
I cannot wait for the rest of the series now!!!!!!!
Love Jackson and Qwen’s story. Such instant chemistry and then to find out what keeps him from his passion so great. Loved it to pieces.