It’s been a lot of years and another lifetime since Dax Trevino was a playboy detective for the Franklin Police Department. He’s been through hell and back, and now he just wants to be left alone, so he can cuddle his otters.When two of his babies are kidnapped in the middle of the night, and Claws and Effect Pet Detectives are called to the rescue, quiet, broody Dax never expects to be tackled … be tackled and handcuffed by the only woman he ever regretted being a douchebag to all those years ago.
Harley Blake has spent her entire life taking care of her accident-prone father with a fondness for dead animals, and her forty-year-old brother who refuses to grow up. The last thing she needs is another complication in her life, and Detective Douchebag is at the top of the list.
Dax might not be a cop anymore, and he might have outgrown his one-and-done player status, but that doesn’t mean she’s going to get burned a second time and fall for his charms. The infuriating man already branded a mark on her heart years ago, making sure she’d never forget him. Besides, she has a case to solve for the guy, and this is just business.
But the sarcasm starts flying, there are a gaggle of adorable otters who need to be cuddled, a Bandit Von Trash Panda who just wants to play poker, pot brownies, and squirrels dressed for a wedding… at a funeral. Things are heating up—and not just from the small tree fire after the grenade went off—and this man is suddenly simplifying her life instead of making it worse.
Harley knows she won’t escape this time without being Otterly Scorched.
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Otterly Scorched by Tara Sivec
Published: May 21, 2020
Tara Sivec
I purchased this book on Amazon.
Tara Sivec is a USA Today best-selling author, wife, mother, chauffeur, maid, short-order cook, baby-sitter, and sarcasm expert. She lives in Ohio with her husband and two children and looks forward to the day when all three of them become adults and move out.
“I’m definitely in The Twilight Zone.”
Chaotic fun from beginning to end. I enjoy that Tara writes such diversely different male characters. Dax is such a complex character, and he has a very brawny side and a very domestic side. He isn’t afraid to hit the craft store or throw a punch. He has secrets and trauma from the past that weighs on him heavily. But he is finally living his dream working with animals.
Harley is tough as nails and unafraid to tell you to go to hell. She followed in her father’s footsteps, only to realize that isn’t where her heart or passion lies. So now, she is pursuing her dreams as an animal investigator. She is also constantly dealing with her immature brother and spontaneous father to contend with daily.
When the past comes crashing (literally) into the present, neither Dax nor Harley know how to process what’s happening. Add to the mix missing otters and secrets from all sides, and boom: total hilarity and slight madness.
I enjoyed this book. I found the characters to be charming and ridiculous in a way that only Tara can create. This was such a sweet conclusion to the Hometown Love series.
I gave this book two stars because I think the otters would be ridiculously cute and I really do like the two lead characters. I just can NOT get past the editing errors, for example: there was a conversation between Dax and DJ after Dax had begun to change, but it was so confusing because it was all “Dax said”. I was like Dax was talking to himself! There are others as well.
I first learnt about Dax Trevino in the previous book of this series, and he had me fascinated to find out more about his story. We know he is an animal lover and looks after an otter enclosure at an animal sanctuary and he let Baker in to impress his date Ember. He was also a returned vet that Baker knew from his gym. Has he got you interested too? Well then you really do need to pick up this book because the man has many facets, he is a true gem in the book boyfriend world. There was another side to him, in a different series, and that story does not repeat here, but he glosses over the fact that he had made many mistakes in his past and wanted to do right by the only woman who he had never forgotten, Harley Blake. They had worked together as detectives briefly but Dax’s douchbag ways never went over well. It’s five years later and Dax is in a deeper place, a bit dark and self deprecating, and he’s bought to his knees when he hears that voice again. Harley is there to help him find his otters that had been stolen.
This series is hugely funny, and with this book it delivers not only from the mc’s but their family and friends too, probably more so on Harley’s side as her dad and brother are crazy funny. There is a little mystery to solve of who took the two otters (all nine of them have adorable names) and even though I felt this one was very similar to book two, there is a sweet romance that has a slow burn to it. Dax is so protective of a Harley and remarkable in the way he cares for her, even if she doesn’t see it at first. Which might be handy because she could kick his butt for it. If you love your epilogues or bonus scenes, then you’ll be happy with the end product here.
Dude. Dudette. Person. Alien life form. Whoever is reading this review…. Why are you reading this review instead of reading this book?
What can I say about this book? Well, it’s freaking funny. It has people in it. It has animals in it, specifically dead and live ones. (cue wide eyes)
There might be scenes where the hot dog finds its way into the hot dog bun. But don’t worry, the hot dog doesn’t get stuck or eaten. No hot dogs were harmed in this book.
Do you like cheese? The characters in this book looooove cheese. Cheese is good. Cheese makes the world go ’round. If you don’t like cheese, you’re dead to me and you might not like all the cheesey scenes… but you don’t count if you don’t like cheese.
So, let’s recap. This book is very funny. It might have schmexy times. The characters might like food. And animals might be present for all of the above.
Have I sold you on this book yet? Do you want to read it? Or do you just want to eat it because I have now made you hungry? Go make a sandwich or something, with lots of cheese.
Seriously though… This book took me back to the author’s beginning. The hilariousness of this book is top notch. And I’m not just saying that because she’s one of my favorite authors. I’m saying that because IT’S TRUE. And the characters. HAHAHAHA. One reminded me a little bit of Drew. You remember him, right? There are some fantastic characters in this book.
Why are you still reading this review? Just go read the book. You won’t be disappointed. If you are, well, then you don’t have a sense of humor. (Sorry, not sorry.)
I had high expectations for this book, and Sivec more than delivered on them. This series is awesome. I just need a good laugh out loud book to make me smile some times. I would love love love to get a look inside the authors personal life. Like can I just attend a family dinner? Because I have a feeling it’s a riot in her home.
Dax and Harley were co-workers once upon a time. Years have passed and they both have new careers now. Dax runs an animal sanctuary and Harley runs an animal detective business. When Dax has two of his beloved otters go missing they find their paths crossing once again. The comedic banter that ensues, almost immediately, is incredible.
Between the taxidermy boxes (I refuse to say more on that), a lazy man-child brother, Harley’s strange gift giving abilities, Dax’s nurturing instincts, to the witty banter, I otterly adore this book!! I promise you, you need this book in your life.
Always a big fan of Tara’s writing style. Usually laughing so hard I cry. This was no exception. Dax and Harley not friends until they were more. Awesome cast of mismatched characters that are Otterly fantastic.
4.5 Otterly Amazing Stars!!! It’s not that I’d forgotten how awesome a Tara Sivec rom-com is; it’s just that some of her books are “buried” in the middle of my Next Read shelf and I have been passing over them lately. Well, no more!!! I laughed so hard while reading Otterly Scorched that I almost peed my pants. Dax is the best mix of a girly alpha male who is no longer afraid to let his feminine sideshow. Sometimes. And only countered with enough alpha that he’s adorable. Harley is so not feminine that she takes badass to a whole new level. Her dating history is hilarious and her attitude is so snarky that you’ll be using some of her lines.
This is sort of a second chance story, but not really. Dax and Harley met five years ago, in a bar, where there has been a disagreement over who was hitting on whom ever since. Dax was known as “Douchbag Dax” at that time. Harley was having nothing to do with him. Especially after she found out they were working together in the same precinct. Neither of them has had an easy life in the traditional sense of the word. They definitely give new meaning to the dysfunctional family. Harley’s family at least puts the “fun” in dysfunctional! Wait until you meet Charlie and Davidson.
Otterly Scorched is a perfect summer read. Really? It’s the perfect read anytime you need something to make you laugh. Did I mention there are adorable otters?
This book had me laughing from the very beginning to the very end!! Dax Trevino is definitely book boyfriend worthy and will he added to my list!! This book hooked me in from the very beginning! I didn’t want to put it down! I would definitely recommend this book!!
Received an arc for an honest review
Another fabulously written book by this extremely talented and hilarious author. The characters were amazing; the humorous situations they got themselves into had me snort-laughing throughout much of their journey. Watching both Dax and Harley lower their defenses to get to know one another was heartwarming to witness.
Get ready to laugh your pants off when it comes to Otterly Scorched. I loved every flippin moment of this book. Tara Sivec always delivers the best rom coms out there. I love Dax and Harley so much. Harley is tough as nails and I love how she handle her brother Davidson and her father. The entire Blake family will put smile on your face and make you laugh out loud a lot with their antics. Then there is Dax. I seriously love him. He is so compassionate when it comes to recuing animals. Dax will make you giggle and steal your heart when it comes to how he fits right in with Harley’s family. I love how Dax slowly wears Harley down and steals her heart. I couldn’t get enough of Harley and Dax and those lovable otters. How can I forget those party boxes, you will just love each and every one of them. I love this one so much and couldn’t put it down.
I “otterly” adored Tara Sivec’s latest romantic comedy, “Otterly Scorched,” a hysterically funny, cute, sweet story featuring lovable, quirky characters and a hint of mystery. It was exactly the book I needed to read right now to help me cope with the insanity of the real world, and I could not recommend it more highly.
“Otterly Scorched” is a complete standalone, though it is set in the world of Tara’s earlier rom-coms “The Simple Life” and “Just My Type” and is also related to her earlier romantic suspense novel “Branded.” It is not necessary to have read any of those books to enjoy this one, but IMO they are every bit as good as “Otterly Scorched” and I recommend them too.
The main characters of “Otterly Scorched,” Dax and Harley, were a tremendous amount of fun both individually and as a couple, and I loved their banter as they went from quasi-enemies to lovers. I particularly enjoyed Dax’s efforts to take care of Harley and ease her burdens as she attempted to run her family’s pet detective business while looking after her irresponsible father and brother. Not only did Dax cook multi-course meals for Harley, he gradually transformed her formerly barren house into a true home, complete with curtains and a bar cart. Dax’s domestic side perfectly complemented Harley’s tough-girl charm, and it was very easy for me to cheer them on to their HEA.
The story’s secondary characters were also amazing and added a lot of depth and humor to the narrative. I particularly loved Harley’s dad, Charlie, and her brother, Davidson. It wasn’t difficult to understand why Harley would find them frustrating to deal with on a daily basis, but they were awfully funny to read about. Thanks to Charlie, I will never look at squirrels (or really any small animal) the same way again. 😉
Bottom line: What are you waiting for? Go one-click “Otterly Scorched” today and prepare to laugh until you cry. I cannot wait to see what Tara Sivec has in store for us next!
*ARC provided by the author. All opinions expressed are my own.
I found Tara shortly after she had released her book Seduction & Snacks. I had never read something so original, so witty, and just down right hilarious. That started my love affair for all of her books. Besides one other author, she’s the only one I own ebooks, paperbacks, and the audio books (all 3) for her books.
When I got the email for this newest release, I was excited. This was just the book I needed at this particular moment. Her work helps you escape in a way a lot of authors are not able to provide. Her light-hearted stories bring a smile to your face, and joy to your heart. This book here is no different, I can’t recommend it enough.
If you like original, out of the box, witty romance – than Tara is what you need. She never disappoints me, and she always checks everyone of my boxes.
4.5+ stars
Once again Tara Sivec had me laughing, grinning and thoroughly entertained by her characters. This hit me at the perfect time, providing humor, lightness, and a chance to forget everything else going on for a little while.
Dax Trevino, one-time police detective and playboy, is distraught over the kidnapping of his babies. His babies are his world, and it doesn’t matter that they are otter rather than human, he wants them back.
Harley Blake has spent her life taking care of her brother and father while running Claws and Effect Pet Detectives. She takes her job very seriously and even though she doesn’t really want to deal with Dax, with whom she has a bit of history, she does want to help find his otters.
I loved Dax’s enthusiasm for his otters, and his acceptance of the quirks that made him who he was. He had so many seriously funny moments. But for every uproariously funny moment, there is also a sweet or heartfelt one to keep the story rolling. I loved him from the very beginning, even as it was difficult to pinpoint which version of Dax was the real one.
These two may have met before, but they were not prepared for the way their lives would turn upside down when they met again. Between the search for the otters, Dax’s attempts to soften Harley’s edges, and Harley’s stubborn streak, there are plenty of opportunities for sparks of all kinds to fly.
The side characters were at times even more ridiculous than the main characters themselves. Harley and Dax’s families had me alternatively shaking my head and laughing out loud. Her dad and brother are a pair of man-children, who alternately bumble their way through “helping” Harley with cases and generally fail at taking care of themselves. There were times I loved members of each family and times they were exasperating as all get out.
This was the perfect escape from a crazy week, and I loved every minute of it. I wouldn’t have imagined otters as the center of a missing animal case, but who can resist a cute little otter (or 8)!
This is Otterly Scorched written by Tara Sivec. Ms Sivec is one of my favorite authors and you will soon know why. This book is completely original, with a kicka@s female lead by the name of Harley. She is hilarious! And then there is Dax! Hot da@n. That man is sex on a stick. Their story is so funny and sweet and hot! And then here come the cutest little otters to the game too? You won’t be able to stand it! I LOVE this one and now I want an otter! ….and a Dax. Wink wink! Enjoy!!
3.5 Stars!!
Otterly Scorched follows the story of Dax and Harley. Dax has changed a lot since he worked for the Franklin Police Department. There was a time when he was a tough, playboy detective, but now Dax is happy just being alone and chillin with his otters. When two of his otters get kidnapped in the middle of the night, Dax is left with no choice, but to call Claws and Effect Pet Detectives. What he didn’t plan on was having to be face to face with the one woman, he feels bad for being a jerk to. Dax might be a changed man, but that doesn’t mean that Harley is going to let him get close. While Harley is used to dealing with difficult men, she doesn’t need another complication…
Overall, I thought this book was a cute and easy read. This is the kind of book that you can definitely read in a single sitting. I thought that Dax and Harley made for an interesting match. Their banter was enjoyable and I thought they had good chemistry. Otterly Scorched had a lot of funny moments that left me laughing out loud. I enjoyed the mystery of the story and couldn’t wait to find out what happened to the otters.
If you’re looking for a cute and funny romantic comedy that is sure to keep you entertained, look no further and give Utterly Scorched a try.
4.5 stars
Otterly Scorched is a witty story with quirky characters and fun animals!
It was such a refreshing easy to read story that made me laugh and want to be friends with the characters!
The antics in this book are rather funny and the banter was very entertaining!
When Harley and Dax meet when Dax’s Otters go missing, needless to say the adventure and drama is on big time! Ridiculous moments ensue and there is also sizzling chemistry between Harley and Dax!
Can Dax let bygones be bygones? Can Harley let someone take care of her for a change?
I really enjoyed reading Otterly Scorched!
4.5+ stars
Sometimes you just need an escape that takes you into ridiculous situations, with crazy humor, quirky characters, and a lot of heart. And Otterly Scorched is just what I needed after some heavier reads.
We have met Dax Trevino before. He loves working with otters and now owns an animal sanctuary. But apparently the tatted, bearded, gruff, bitter, mean loner he is today is not at all who he used to be. In his past, he was a charming, flirty, cocky, playboy police officer and eventually military man. But he is finally settling into the life he wants. So when two of his precious otter babies go missing, he goes a bit berserk.
Harley Blake also used to be a cop. In fact as a rookie, she shared a meaningful encounter with Dax followed by an antagonistic work relationship. She has also moved onto new work as a pet detective in her family business. She is tough, sarcastic, focused on work, and a caretaker for her family. She does not seem to have the time or interest in relationships.
Coming together for his missing otter case is going to shake up their lives. Both have changed in many ways, but their witty banter, teasing, and chemistry are still there. And she still challenges him. And as these two spend time together, they both start to grow and change even more.
I absolutely loved Dax. There are several versions of Dax in this story until we are bared down to the real one. I loved his true self and softer side. The ways he starts to care for her and gradually domesticate her are so sweet. Under that gruff exterior is a totally different man. And she tends to calm him and let him be himself. They are the most unlikely of couples, but complement each other so well.
Their friends and family add more drama and ridiculousness. Her dad and brother are hilarious and the things coming out of their mouth and minds are really out there. The colorful, unfiltered language adds to the whole over-the-top fun of the book. There are also some cameos that Tara Sivec fans will recognize as well.
And then there is the mystery of who kidnapped the otters and why…
This is a laugh-out-loud, entertaining, heartfelt, sexy, otter-some adventure, and enemies-to-lovers story. It brings all the smiles and the feels. I want to go play with the otters now…
If you want to know how to turn my mood around, put a Tara Sivec book in front of me. I promise you can’t read this without smiling, laughing, or swooning. Oh, and I guarantee after reading, google searches on buying Otters will be happening. I tried for two hours to convince my husband that we should get one. Instead he flipped the script on me when he asked, Would you rather live next door to Tara and be vodka drinking BFF’s or Would you rather have a baby Otter? With that one question, he’s made me question our whole relationship.
“Ovaries: Hate-fucking is making a comeback. We’ll pencil that in for you.”
Ok, back to the book, I absolutely adored it. The whole story is cuteness on steroids. I flew through the pages. I couldn’t get enough of these characters. Dax is everything that Harley isn’t and exactly what she needs. He steps in and provides a little calm to her chaos. Hopefully, this paragraph from the blurb will give you an example of what shenanigans you’ll find.
“But the sarcasm starts flying, there are a gaggle of adorable otters who need to be cuddled, a Bandit Von Trash Panda who just wants to play poker, pot brownies, and squirrels dressed for a wedding… at a funeral. Things are heating up—and not just from the small tree fire after the grenade went off—and this man is suddenly simplifying her life instead of making it worse.”
I love otters! Otterly Scorched has a bunch of them with hilarious punny names, but two have been otter-napped! Dax Trevino their owner/caretaker/daddy is beside himself with worry and enlists Claws and Effect Pet Detectives for help finding his babies. Harley Blake and her minimally functioning brother and father are on the case to return Christotterpher Columbus and Otterham Lincoln home to The Backyard Animal Sanctuary and Dax.
The majority of Tara Sivec’s books are brimming with laugh out loud and public embarrassment inducing hilarity and this one is no exception. There are oodles of odd characters that kept me chuckling to myself while reading and days later as I think back on the story. I like to think of it as a mental snack. While the story surrounding them is funny, Dax and Harley have layers like an onion. It’s a bumpy, prickly road that’s brought them to this place in their lives where they balance, yin and yang.
I had been in a reading funk, unable to read at all since the world went crazy. This story was the perfect one to set me back to normal. Thank you, Tara for fixing me.