A Lot Like Love (FBI/US Attorney Book 2)

Ms. James has an extraordinary way of developing her characters quickly and believably. It's obvious to me that she spends an ample amount of time researching her characters careers and social settings prior to creating her quick witted, itelligent and very enjoyable manuscipts. One novel is not better than another. Pick one of the four and I promise it wont be long before you read the remaining three. Plenty others have given this book's content a review so I wont be redundant.

I would rank Julie James' writing up there with Jennifer Crusie, who I believe writes the wittiest and smartest romance genre novels out there! The literary field has another contender for the validity of romance novels as a major cultural theory.

Gotta say I was disappointed with this book. I loved JJ's previous books, specially Something About You and Practice Makes Perfect. When I read the other reviews I was expecting something in their caliber, but I felt A Lot Like Love was seriously lacking. The sexual tension was good, but it didn't come close to what we have in SAY. And I really did not feel the emotional connection between the characters. I know her last two books (this one included) are a little heavier on the sex factor than her first ones, but it not bother me with Something About You. In this book, however, I had a really hard time trying to get anything deeper from the characters than just lust.

On the positive side, the heroine was not a disappointment. I found Jordan to be a very smart, witty, sexy, funny and confident woman. She knows who she is and what she wants. I really admired that about her. She was the highlight of the book and the sole reason why I'm giving it 3 stars instead of 2. Nick was just Ok.

Overall A Lot Like Love didn't work for me.

This was not a suspense or action book but rather a love story. Given that the little bit of love in this story started when the book was about 60% over, I should at this point say "nuff said!" I really like this author and she has done so much better with her past three books. There has always been this intense chemistry between the two characters that you can feel that they're just perfect for each other. I saw none of it in this book. The dialogue is good as usual but where was the love and romance? They decided they loved each other on the basis of one date and two nights spent together. It just did not seem convincing to me. The plot was boring and not at all gripping. Nick and Jordan seemed really sweet but the story just seemed rushed without any emotional development between the two. Please read her previous books to experience her witty and charming writing, and I hope to read one in the future which is more worthy of her talent. Till next time....

If you like Julie James' other books, you'll probably love this one too. My absolute favorite book of hers is Practice Makes Perfect - busted out laughing many times and would recommend it as a read for anyone who liked this book. This book appears to be the 2nd in a series, first being Something About You (another great read), which is about Agent Pallas and U.S. States Attorney Cameron Lynde - the books can be read independently of each other. A Lot Like Love has Pallas and Lynde as minor characters.

A Lot Like Love is about FBI Agent Nick McCall, who, while preparing to head out of town for his Mother's 60th birthday, gets roped into a last minute consultation on a junior agent's assignment. Junior agent ends up getting sick and Nick ends up having to go undercover.

Jordan is a billionaire's daughter, though proclaimed as financially independent - this piece kind of stuck with me... I live in Chicago and its very tough to believe that a small business owner, though ahead in her 10-year business plan, can afford a 4,000 sq. ft home in Lincoln Park; that's like half a million dollars in real estate at the LOW end and she still has money for first class vacations (/business trips) and designer shoes? Anyways, I'm sure as a billionaire's daughter she has money, but maybe her everyday expenses are covered by her income or her store really does phenomenally well- whatever, it doesn't really matter, I liked Jordan as a person. She was completely down to earth and real.

Nick is on the case for taking down a money launderer, Xander, and so he poses as Jordan's BF to get into Xander's exclusive party and bugs Xanders office. Turns out Xanders got the hots for Jordan (and her Dad's money) and immediately wants Nick followed to find some dirt on him and figure out how serious the relationship is. This pushes Nick and Jordan to continue acting out their relationship.

This book has what's becoming James' trademark in my eyes, witty banter which is downright hilarious at times, a fast-paced story that keeps you turning pages, and lovable characters you could easily be friends with. James has a way of writing emotion you could feel, I hurt for Nick when he had to call and tell his Mom he was missing her party, the disappointment was tangible and I teared up when Nick calls home to say "Ma...there's this girl"

I even loved the secondary characters, Jordan's twin Kyle was great and I'm really hoping he gets a story soon!

Nick's commitment issues felt a bit immature, but other than that, it was great.

The book:
• 304 Pages • Contemporary • Standalone • Happily Ever After • In A Series • Third-Person Narrative • Her POV • His POV

The romantic theme:
• Enemies To Lovers • Law Enforcement Romance

The read:
• Light Read • Learned Something New • Page Turner • Good Pace • Made Me Smile • Made Me Laugh • Sexy

Heat level:
• 3 / 5 (Includes hot and explicit sex scenes, but not too often through out the book) • MF scenes • Vanilla Sex

Story ingredients:
• Cat And Mouse Games • Instant Clash • Witty Banter • Opposites Attract • Heroic Rescue • Big Romantic Gestures • Billionaire Lifestyle • Violence

He is...
• Alpha Male • Bossy • Cocky • Emotionally Unavailable • Hot • Fit

She is...
• Stunning • Sassy • Strong • Successful • Wealthy • Slim Figure • Had Few Bed Partners

4 (A Lot Like Cuteness) Stars

It’s been awhile since I’ve read a chick-lit book. It reminds me the time when I started reading and it was the genre I started out with. Julie James’ books are very sweet, a no fuss, happy-go-lucky kind of read with a touch of mild suspense.

Summary

Jordan is the daughter of a rich billionaire. She’s independent and wants to make it on her own. She’s a wine enthusiast and has a wine shop. Nick McCall is an undercover agent. He’s a man’s man meaning he doesn’t care about fashion or what fancy wine taste like, all he cares about is getting his job done. Nick’s needs Jordan for his next assignment, but both are finding it difficult to draw between the lines of pretending for the operation and showing their true feelings.

Review

The beginning was a bit slow and there was a lot of story build-up. You basically get to know Jordan and Nick’s character. Jordan may be super rich, but that’s her dad’s money and she’s determined to be a well-rounded gal. I like her character, even though I’m not fond of rich gals, but she’s down to earth and was never annoying. Nick is from Brooklyn and comes from a big Italian family. He’s been working as an agent for over six years and hasn’t taken a vacation.

I enjoyed how different Jordan and Nick’s characters are. Jordan kind of teaches Nick about wine and Nick starts to reevaluate his first opinions of Jordan. The banter was very cute and I liked the dialogue and if you weren’t a wine fan prior to reading, you will want a drink when you are done.

There are a lot of wine references, so watch out.

Nick needs Jordan to get close to his target, the person he wants to take down, because of Jordan’s knowledge of wine. I love the whole fake-pretend-to-be-in-a-relationship storyline. It’s just makes for a great plot.

A lot like love didn’t have any angst or action, but a few suspenseful moments and a lot of cuteness.

Julie James uses the formula that worked with SOMETHING ABOUT YOU and spins off another entertaining story in the FBI/US Attorney series. Confirmed bachelor Special Agent Nick McCall is finally back in Chicago after a long grueling assignment in the field. He is looking forward to some much needed R&R. But his boss has a tiny side job he needs to complete before he can head home to his mom's 60th birthday in his hometown of Brooklyn, NY.

Yeah, right! If things could ever go so smoothly.

The bump in his road has a name: billionaire heiress and fraternal twin, Jordan Rhodes. The FBI needs her 'assistance'; in turn, they will give her brother, Kyle, an early release from jail. He goofed big-time when he hacked Twitter but then that's another story.

Long story short, Nick ends up getting more involved than he originally intended. He and Jordan butt heads which adds to the wonderful chemistry that occurs. Surprise, surprise! She doesn't let Nick always have the last word. And the glimmers of attraction that pop up when least expected strengthen the plot.

There is that necessary light suspense that pulls you along. Then Ms. James adds some humor at the right moments that will plaster a smile on your face. It can't be helped! But I really think it is the secondary characters that make this book a no-brainer to read. Without them, everything would come to a stand-still.

If this story was made of chocolate I would eat it. It was that good.

Instead of a FBI / US-Attorney pairing we have an FBI agent (Nick McCall) and a socialite that runs her own wine store (Jordan Rhodes). Nick is a dedicated undercover agent coming off a recent deep cover assignment. The Special Agent in Charge asks Nick to partner up with Huxley, another agent getting ready for his first undercover assignment. Not surprisingly Huxley comes down with the flu, forcing Nick to step in.

In nice foreshadowing for a later book, Jordan happens to have a twin brother (Kyle) who's been convicted of cyber-terrorism. Kyle hacked twitter after a former girlfriend opted to use the popular social media to breakup with Kyle by posting pictures of her new beau. Jordan is convinced to help the FBI gain access to a local restaurateur in exchange for Kyle's release from prison. Everything is supposed to be easy. Nick accompanies Jordan to an annual high society wine party at a local restaurant. Nick sneaks away to plant several bugs in the restaurant owner's office to gain information on a local money laundering scheme.

Not surprisingly, the assignment doesn't go quite as well as planned and Nick and Jordan end up spending far more time together than planned. Their supposed relationship is called into question so they are forced to continue to assignment. Nick and Jordan make an interesting pair. They do not immediately get along - a trope that seems to be a James standard. However, in her capable hands it seems to work. Their initial snark gives way to genuine sparks that drive the story.

Getting the bad guy takes a back-seat to Nick and Jordan figuring out initially how to work together and eventually to support each other whole-heartedly. The FBI operation provides enough forward momentum to keep the story moving, but doesn't detract from the fundamental romance. This is most definitely a character driven novel. James has created characters that you enjoy and want to see move forward together.

Jordan is the daughter of a billionaire and the owner of the city’s top wine store. She’s a pretty big deal so she’s invited to a lot of exclusive parties. The FBI needs into a certain party so they approach Jordan with an offer she won’t refuse. Nick is one of the FBI’s top agents and ends up assigned as Jordan’s date. He has a rule to never get personal but it’s not so easy when it comes to Jordan.

I really enjoyed Nick and Jordan’s sarcastic relationship. While they were pretending to be in a relationship, it still seemed so effortless for them. There were several times where I had a silly grin on my face. Loved how independent Jordan was. She was a straight shooter that didn’t hold anything back. I liked her loyalty to her family and friends. I really liked Nick and his don’t f with me look. A part of me wanted more of him and his family, they seemed like they would have been a fun bunch to be around for a chapter.

The suspense that we got was pretty good. I was very curious how it was all going to go down and I’ll say I wasn’t disappointed with the outcome. These two were defiantly a hot couple that fit well.

4 (A Lot Like Cuteness) Stars

It’s been awhile since I’ve read a chick-lit book. It reminds me the time when I started reading and it was the genre I started out with. Julie James’ books are very sweet, a no fuss, happy-go-lucky kind of read with a touch of mild suspense.

Summary

Jordan is the daughter of a rich billionaire. She’s independent and wants to make it on her own. She’s a wine enthusiast and has a wine shop. Nick McCall is an undercover agent. He’s a man’s man meaning he doesn’t care about fashion or what fancy wine taste like, all he cares about is getting his job done. Nick’s needs Jordan for his next assignment, but both are finding it difficult to draw between the lines of pretending for the operation and showing their true feelings.

Review

The beginning was a bit slow and there was a lot of story build-up. You basically get to know Jordan and Nick’s character. Jordan may be super rich, but that’s her dad’s money and she’s determined to be a well-rounded gal. I like her character, even though I’m not fond of rich gals, but she’s down to earth and was never annoying. Nick is from Brooklyn and comes from a big Italian family. He’s been working as an agent for over six years and hasn’t taken a vacation.

I enjoyed how different Jordan and Nick’s characters are. Jordan kind of teaches Nick about wine and Nick starts to reevaluate his first opinions of Jordan. The banter was very cute and I liked the dialogue and if you weren’t a wine fan prior to reading, you will want a drink when you are done.

There are a lot of wine references, so watch out.

Nick needs Jordan to get close to his target, the person he wants to take down, because of Jordan’s knowledge of wine. I love the whole fake-pretend-to-be-in-a-relationship storyline. It’s just makes for a great plot.

A lot like love didn’t have any angst or action, but a few suspenseful moments and a lot of cuteness.

Julie James uses the formula that worked with SOMETHING ABOUT YOU and spins off another entertaining story in the FBI/US Attorney series. Confirmed bachelor Special Agent Nick McCall is finally back in Chicago after a long grueling assignment in the field. He is looking forward to some much needed R&R. But his boss has a tiny side job he needs to complete before he can head home to his mom's 60th birthday in his hometown of Brooklyn, NY.

Yeah, right! If things could ever go so smoothly.

The bump in his road has a name: billionaire heiress and fraternal twin, Jordan Rhodes. The FBI needs her 'assistance'; in turn, they will give her brother, Kyle, an early release from jail. He goofed big-time when he hacked Twitter but then that's another story.

Long story short, Nick ends up getting more involved than he originally intended. He and Jordan butt heads which adds to the wonderful chemistry that occurs. Surprise, surprise! She doesn't let Nick always have the last word. And the glimmers of attraction that pop up when least expected strengthen the plot.

There is that necessary light suspense that pulls you along. Then Ms. James adds some humor at the right moments that will plaster a smile on your face. It can't be helped! But I really think it is the secondary characters that make this book a no-brainer to read. Without them, everything would come to a stand-still.

If this story was made of chocolate I would eat it. It was that good.

Instead of a FBI / US-Attorney pairing we have an FBI agent (Nick McCall) and a socialite that runs her own wine store (Jordan Rhodes). Nick is a dedicated undercover agent coming off a recent deep cover assignment. The Special Agent in Charge asks Nick to partner up with Huxley, another agent getting ready for his first undercover assignment. Not surprisingly Huxley comes down with the flu, forcing Nick to step in.

In nice foreshadowing for a later book, Jordan happens to have a twin brother (Kyle) who's been convicted of cyber-terrorism. Kyle hacked twitter after a former girlfriend opted to use the popular social media to breakup with Kyle by posting pictures of her new beau. Jordan is convinced to help the FBI gain access to a local restaurateur in exchange for Kyle's release from prison. Everything is supposed to be easy. Nick accompanies Jordan to an annual high society wine party at a local restaurant. Nick sneaks away to plant several bugs in the restaurant owner's office to gain information on a local money laundering scheme.

Not surprisingly, the assignment doesn't go quite as well as planned and Nick and Jordan end up spending far more time together than planned. Their supposed relationship is called into question so they are forced to continue to assignment. Nick and Jordan make an interesting pair. They do not immediately get along - a trope that seems to be a James standard. However, in her capable hands it seems to work. Their initial snark gives way to genuine sparks that drive the story.

Getting the bad guy takes a back-seat to Nick and Jordan figuring out initially how to work together and eventually to support each other whole-heartedly. The FBI operation provides enough forward momentum to keep the story moving, but doesn't detract from the fundamental romance. This is most definitely a character driven novel. James has created characters that you enjoy and want to see move forward together.

Jordan is the daughter of a billionaire and the owner of the city’s top wine store. She’s a pretty big deal so she’s invited to a lot of exclusive parties. The FBI needs into a certain party so they approach Jordan with an offer she won’t refuse. Nick is one of the FBI’s top agents and ends up assigned as Jordan’s date. He has a rule to never get personal but it’s not so easy when it comes to Jordan.

I really enjoyed Nick and Jordan’s sarcastic relationship. While they were pretending to be in a relationship, it still seemed so effortless for them. There were several times where I had a silly grin on my face. Loved how independent Jordan was. She was a straight shooter that didn’t hold anything back. I liked her loyalty to her family and friends. I really liked Nick and his don’t f with me look. A part of me wanted more of him and his family, they seemed like they would have been a fun bunch to be around for a chapter.

The suspense that we got was pretty good. I was very curious how it was all going to go down and I’ll say I wasn’t disappointed with the outcome. These two were defiantly a hot couple that fit well.

Jordan runs a wine shop in Chicago and also happens to be a billionaire heiress. One night while getting ready to close up her shop, two FBI agents approach her with a deal she can't turn down. If she helps the FBI get an undercover agent into a high profile Valentine's Day party, they'll spring her brother from prison. But the operation goes wrong when the FBI's target becomes jealous of Jordan's mystery date and hires a private investigator to dig up some dirt. So, now Jordan is stuck with an undercover FBI agent as a fake boyfriend.

Jordan was a wonderful character. She was sarcastic and really cared about her family. I loved that she didn't live in a bubble either. She had friends, family, and work obligations that are displayed in this story. I also really adored her relationship with her twin brother, the one who she's trying to get out of jail.

Nick, the hero, was also great, even if he did sometimes come across as a little bland. He was funny and I liked that you saw him struggle with the idea of a committed relationship and what that means for his career.

All in all, I would recommend this book for fans of Susan Elizabeth Phillips and Jennifer Crusie.

Despite not having read Julie James' previous novel Something About You, I decided to pick up A Lot Like Love. I hesitated at first because I knew that it was more romantic suspense than comedy, the same reason I hadn't read Something About You. See, I adored her first two books, particularly Practice Makes Perfect, which are both romantic comedies but was afraid I wouldn't like her more serious novels. Plus I'm also not a fan of very spelled out sex scenes, which is why I don't read more from the straight romance genre. I like a little left to the imagination, you know? It also may have something to do with my sheltered, conservative upbringing. But in spite of these reservations, I was in need of a lighter, contemporary read, and it's hard to find someone who does sarcastic humor better than Julie James.

Billionaire heiress and wine aficionado Jordan Rhodes' life is pretty perfect. Her wine store is doing very well and she's happy to have broken the heiress mold and earned her own living. Although she has little in common with their elitist snobbery, regular clients in the likes of wine collector Xander Eckhart signify that she's made it. She even tells herself she's content without a man in her life. The only thing that she could want is for the release of her twin brother Kyle, who's in prison for one of the largest (and funniest) website hacks ever.

Undercover FBI agent Nick McCall is one of the finest at his job and he wouldn't have it any other way. Other than casual flings, Nick doesn't need a woman in his life, a fact he courteously informs each woman he dates up front. His only want is that he could attend his mother's 60th birthday party. For his next job, which just so happens to be at wine collector Eckhart's annual party, he's doing backup for a younger agent, so it looks like his wish may come true. Instead, Nick's stuck pretending to be Jordan's date. When the op doesn't go as planned, Jordan and Nick have no choice but to stay in their boyfriend/girlfriend characters and for him to miss his mom's party. Little do they know that their hearts may be in the most danger of all as what's real and what's an act begin to intersect.

I'm glad I took a chance on this novel because the promising premise pays off. I'm growing fond of novels where the lines between what's real and what's imaginary are blurred. I skipped the couple of smexier scenes but I enjoyed being back in a love-hate relationship with plenty of witty quips and retorts - another trope that James does so well. I found Jordan very likeable. She's grounded despite coming from a wealthy family and has an interesting career in wine, something I know next to nothing about since I don't drink. The wine premise is especially appropriate as wine tasting works well as a metaphor for sex. Rugged, masculine Nick is definitely one of my types. :) I liked that Jordan wasn't sure if she could be attracted to a man's man over the fashionable wealthy/celebrity types she usually sees. Nick is married to his career and I can relate to that too. One of my favorite no-holds-barred smiling scenes star­ted off by Nick:

"So I've been thinking about your question. My character has decided he doesn't want to see other people."

"What made you change your mind? Let me guess - the Maserati."

He chuckled. "Our cover story is that my character has been smitten from the moment he met you. He's not about to let another man get anywhere near you."

"Your character sounds a little possessive. Is this something my character should be worried about?

They came to a stop at the light that would take them onto the Drive. Nicks voice was low, even smoother than the car's engine. "I think your character secretly likes it. You've been dating boring, uptight guys for too long. You've been looking for something different."

Jordan looked sharply at the SUV in front of her. "I think your character presumes too much."

His eyes caught hers in the rear view mirror. "Does he?"

Good times and entertaining stuff. That's exactly how I can describe the experience of reading A Lot Like Love or any of James' novels. While I may prefer her comedies I highly recommend this one to James fans and anyone who needs a chick flick in the guise of a book. Who doesn't? I think I'll be reading Something About You now. :) Both novels are definitely not for the faint of heart though so anyone who can't stomach the occasional f-bomb or graphic love scene, proceed with caution. Count yourself warned. ;)

Julie James has stepped down from the pedestal of my unreasonably high expectations. She is, after all, just a woman who writes better contemporary romance novels than most.

This time I knew what to expect. I knew to expect characters that are strong and coherent, and I knew to expect a story that won't surprise me with its twists and turns but will effectively carry through and take the pressure off the romance. I knew to expect something believable--or as believable as the romance genre is capable of offering.

I like how Julie James does her research and how it shows in the daily details of a lawyer or a wine merchant. I like how Jordan teaches Nick about wine, looking at it, and tasting it. What I would have liked even more, if the passion a person or a character feels for his or her trade had shone through the text. For example, when Jordan explains that a wine's age affects its hue, she fails to elaborate how it affects it. For someone who works, lives, and breathes the stuff, that little detail should be clear as day and slip out in everyday discussion whether it bores the none wine enthusiasts or not. I know that when I start explaining physics I won't stop talking and pointing out little details until someone shuts me up or until I reach the limits of my knowledge.

Then there are times when the author should know to shut up. Writing the same word or expression over and over is like repeating a joke after it stops being funny. It's something I can live with, but I doubt it will ever fully stop nagging at me.

I didn't notice this, until it was pointed it out to me, but James likes to describe clothing and she likes to do it by saying he wore or she wore a lot. So I can say, there are some perks to not caring about everyday fashion--or fashion at all. Except Crocs. Even I won't wear them.

As to something that didn't affect the plot, but could have, I'm asking:

Why does Nick tell absolutely everyone that he works undercover and why does he tell absolutely everything about those undercover works of his? Telling his family about working undercover is one thing, telling it to casual acquaintances is another. I wonder how such a blabbermouth survived doing that job for so long.

It's been a while--few days--since I read this book, and I can't think of much more to say. If the next two books I read from Julie James are as good as this, I'll be adding another author on my favourite authors list.

I discovered Julie James only a short while ago. I kept seeing her books pop up on my "the store Recommends" list, but hesitated taking the plunge. Then, a book blog I follow posted her favorite reads of 2010. She had a list of books released in 2010 and a separate list of books from previous years that she only just read. She listed Ms. James' books Just the Sexiest Man Alive (Berkley Sensation) and Practice Makes Perfect (Berkley Sensation). Once I saw that post, I finally knew it was time to give Ms. James a try. I greedily read Just the Sexiest Man Alive (Berkley Sensation) and quickly devoured Practice Makes Perfect (Berkley Sensation) and Something About You (Berkley Sensation). I loved her style of writing. I loved the banter between the characters. I loved the plotlines. Each time I read one I would think "this is my favorite. There is no way it can get better." And then each book was better in its own way making it impossible to decide which one is my favorite.

Even though I quickly became a Julie James fangirl, I was a bit nervous for A LOT LIKE LOVE. One of my least favorite romance novel ploy is the "we don't get along but must pretend to be lovers and now I don't know if what's happening is real." So, when I read the blurb, I was nervous that I wasn't going to like it. Happily, Ms. James made it work and delivered a really amazing story.

A LOT LIKE LOVE features Jordan Rhodes, wine store owner and sister of the notorious "Twitter Terrorist." FBI agent Nick McCall offers a deal Jordon can't refuse. Pose as his date to get him into an invite-only party with a Mob connected restaurateur and they will release her brother from prison. Things don't go exactly as planned, and Jordon finds herself with a full-time boyfriend.

I really liked both Jordan and Nick. Their banter keeps the pages flying and really showcases their character. I especially loved watching Jordan with her brother and her father. The whole "Twitter Terrorist" thing was actually very funny. The FBI case adds a lot of tension and unfolded quite nicely.

My only complaint isn't even a real complaint: it's actually quite petty. I'm just getting tired of all the masculine-type names Ms. James gives her female leads: Taylor, Payton, Cameron, and Jordan. In the beginning of each story I'm confused about who's a man and who's a woman. Like I said, it really is a petty complaint, especially since these names started out as typical male names and are becoming more and more common names for females.

Each book stands on its own. However, this book we see a little bit of Cameron and Jack from Something About You (Berkley Sensation). I had to laugh at the little things she added as a nod to her previous books....like seeing what Scott Casey was up to. Ms. James' next book will feature Jordon's brother, the "Twitter Terrorist." I really liked him and look forward to getting to know him better.

Just the Sexiest Man Alive (Berkley Sensation)
Practice Makes Perfect (Berkley Sensation)
Something About You (Berkley Sensation)
A Lot Like Love (Berkley Sensation)

Sassy heiress, Jordan Rhodes owns and operates DeVine Cellars, a winery in Chicago. Her twin brother, Kyle, has recently been incarcerated for his computer hacking of Twitter. Jordan is very concerned about her impulsive, geeky brother and would like nothing more than to have him out of prison, sooner rather than later. Jordan may have that opportunity to have Kyle released when two FBI agents enter her store to offer her a deal. If she agrees to assist them in getting into a party to plant listening devices into the owner's office, they will work a deal for an early release of her brother. How can Jordan refuse a chance to get her brother out of jail early?
Top field agent, Nick McCall, is good at his job and enjoys long undercover assignments. He's a take charge, controlling man who knows how to handle any situation. Nick never planned on being the main agent on this job, but his partner became ill and he had to step in and deal with the woman whom seems to rub him the wrong way. Due to unforeseen circumstances, a one night job suddenly turns into a longer stint as both Jordan and Nick have to pretend to be dating so that Nick's cover won't be blown, and the FBI will be able to get the evidence they need for prosecuting the criminals.

A Lot Like Love was an absorbing tale with characters that were very entertaining and fun to be with. I liked the references to some of today's current trends and even the fact that one of the characters didn't understand the ending of one of those trends i.e. the series finale of Lost.

A Lot Like Love was a thrill ride that slows down for you to catch your breath then picks back up as the characters drive this story to its final conclusion. I found the way that Julie James compared wine tasting to relationships to be very intriguing. A Lot Like Love had it all: humor, heart touching scenes, and it kept you riveted to its pages.

I enjoyed the chemistry and camaraderie between all of the characters and found that I literally did NOT want to part from them or their families at the end of this book. I am so incredibly grateful for the chance to have been introduced to this author. I eagerly await Julie James' next offering in the romance genre. A Lot Like Love is joyfully recommended!

Vanessa
Reviewed for Joyfully Reviewed

Nick McCall is an FBI Special Agent who has spent the last six years working undercover. The Roberto Martino case has led to another potential suspect who has laundered money for Martino's organization. Jordan Rhodes owns a wine business, is the daughter of a billionaire and the twin of man who is now in prison for computer hacking. She's been invited to the suspect's gala event and is the FBI's ticket to gaining entry to his establishment to place listening devices.

I really enjoyed this story, primarily because of the characters. Nick is given more dimension through his interactions with his family, providing another perspective of the hard-edged G-man. Jordan is interesting, witty and self confident without being arrogant. She's quick and the dialogue with Nick is the real winner of this story. She and her brother, Kyle, have more than the typical twin relationship, providing lots of fun banter to mitigate the fact its happening in prison. And, while neither Jordan or Nick seems to like each other very much initially because of preconceived notions about the other, the relationship warms naturally as they get to know one another. The romance isn't overpowered by the case but the ending was climactic enough, though it's still light on the suspense angle.

As with the first book in the series, the story moves at a perfect pace with a nice blend of humor, romance and suspense. Characters from the first book also appear in this one, though not as much as I would have preferred. Still, I'm continuing to enjoy this series and look forward to the next book.

Heiress and businesswoman Jordan Rhodes has been sad ever since her beloved twin brother who is a computer genius was jailed for shutting down Twitter for two days when his famous girlfriend broke up with him via a tweet and posted a picture of herself and another man in a hot tub. So when the FBI shows up at her door telling her that in exchange for her help in getting them into an exclusive event, they will release her brother from jail earlier. She jumps at the chance, even if it means working with the surly Agent Nick McCall. That simple assignment takes an expected turn and Nick and Jordan have to continue to pose as boyfriend and girlfriend until the FBI are able to get enough evidence to put a famous restaurateur behind bars. As they are forced to spend more and more time together Nick and Jordan begin to see more behind the façade the other portrays and develop intense feelings for the other. Feelings that are put in jeopardy when Nick's cover is blown and Jordan's life is in jeopardy.

A LOT LIKE LOVE is a great read that won't disappoint. Although I am not normally into straight contemporaries, I really enjoy Julie James novels and A LOT LIKE LOVE has become my favorite read by her. Nick and Jordan are great characters. Often when you read romance novels you feel that this could never have happened in real life. I didn't feel that when reading A LOT LIKE LOVE. Despite the extreme circumstances, A LOT LIKE LOVE had realistic characters in a realistic situation. Why I felt that way could've come from Ms. James's background. To be blunt, I felt like I could go to Chicago and see these two people walking down the street. If I had to point out one thing that bothered me about A LOT LIKE LOVE is that when I closed the book, I thought about how much I loved the characters, but it was as individuals not as a couple. I didn't get that certain something that I really look for when reading a romance novel. I wanted to think about them as a couple. I wanted to feel what is it that made the two of them special just for the other one and no one else. I didn't get that. Of course, I'm a stickler and that's a minor quibble, because A LOT LIKE LOVE is a great contemporary romance and the best in its genre that I've read this year.

REVIEW Courtesy of CK2S Kwips and Kritiques

I have to congratulate Julie James. She writes spicy with a lot of class! This second book in the FBI series does not disappoint. With an engrossing plot, and sexual tension that gradually heats up to fire-hot, you can't put this down once you start!

FBI agent, Nick McCall and billionaire heiress, Jordan Rhodes lives are thrown together when Jordan is "asked" to help on a money-laundering case. It seems Jordan is part of a select group that gets invited to Xander Eckhart's restaurant once a year for a charity event. Eckhart is suspected of laundering money for a notorious mobster the FBI has been trying to pin down for years. To aid in this capture, the FBI asks Jordan to take one of their agents, as her date to this exclusive event. Of course it ends up being Nick, the ruggedly handsome, and maybe a little dangerous, tough FBI agent. He is evenly matched, because Jordan is smart, sassy, independent, and has the elegant looks of Grace Kelly.

This story was so much fun with lots of great lines, like this one:

And of course any woman spending Valentine's Day with a date who looked like Nick was guaranteed a night of endless great sex. Hot, scruffy-jawed, throw-me-down-on-the-table, mindblowing sex. Probably with dirty words.

Or this:

"Think it'll do?"

Ahem, *cough* I won't elaborate on that one! ;)

Julie James is fast becoming one of my favorite smutty/spicy, contemporary romance writers. I can't wait to pick up the next installment to this series, which just came out this month: About That Night.

Wine info dump city! Talk about overkill. I can appreciate good research as much as the next guy, but I was skimming entirely too much in this book. To me it's the mark of a bad book, or a bad editor, when I skim almost as much as I read and still don't miss anything important. I hate PAYING for a book where so much isn't worth reading.
I liked the heroine in this book, but the hero? The guy who won't drink wine if it's pink because *real* men do *do* pink drinks along with any number of other macho "real" men do and don't rules? Bleck! Please. Save those types of "heroes" for someone else. If it wasn't for the author [or the character himself --gag] TELLING me he was charming, I certainly would never have gotten that impression from the actual story. He just seemed there, that's all, his presence didn't add anything to the scene except to appreciate the heroine.
I really liked the previous 2 of Ms. James' novels after a *meh* reaction to her first one, and after this one I'll definitely be hesitant to buy the next.
When the best thing I can say about a book is that I really like how the author gets the covers to match a specific scene in the book, well, that doesn't say much for the story within the covers.

Julie James definitely has a knack for creating the perfect sexy bad-boys!! Once again, I'm finding myself hot and bothered over an FBI agent (suddenly those sexy TV and movie special agents have taken on a whole knew meaning for me...) who's unhappily forced into a case that he wasn't expecting to have. This time around we have Nick, the sex-on-a-stick bad boy undercover agent who finds himself in the role of pretend boyfriend to rich wine store owner Jordan Rhodes. Nick is cocky and definitely a man's man, while Jordan is refined and serious about her career. Can they work together without driving each other mad?

I really enjoyed this story, I love the way James develops her characters and there is no question about the chemistry between the leading roles. What's great is that she really creates an exciting, page-turning story behind it so that you get hooked on more than the steaminess that oozes off the love scenes!! I must admit I wasn't as enthralled with the story for A Lot Like Love as I was for the first book in the series. It kept my interest and I really liked the antagonists, but I didn't get completely lost in the story like I did with the first book. Nick was sexy and the love scenes were super-steamy, but I think I just liked Jack and Cameron better than I did Nick and Jordan. I did love the ending, though; the way James wrapped it all up from the climax was really exciting!! Definitely recommend this series, James has herself a real gem here!

Wine connoisseur Jordan is incredibly worried about her twin brother who was recently incarcerated for shutting down twitter after his girlfriend broke up with him via tweet. She's been given an opportunity to get him released if she allows sexy FBI agent Nick to go undercover as her boyfriend at an exclusive party hosted by a suspected money launderer. I don't think there's any part of A Lot Like Love's premise that didn't have me totally hooked.

A Lot Like Love was such a fun read. It had everything I desire in a romance novel; an interesting story, witty banter, great chemistry etc. I was especially appreciative of the fantastic characters. Our hero and heroine, Jordan and Nick, were both so easy to love. I loved each of them as an individual but together they were on fire. I even found myself falling for one of the minor characters, Kyle the very naughty, dramatic brother. I'm so excited that he will be getting his own book. He and Jordan were hilarious together, loved all of the jail jokes/humor.

Often times I honestly don't care about the storyline when it comes to romances. I have to say that I really enjoyed this one though. The special agent/undercover tension was very well done and added a lot to the the romance. I had expected to be turned off by the undercover scenes since I'm not one for the misunderstandings and confusion that it usually brings out. James didn't do that to us though. She used it as a tool to feed their banter and passion, and I loved every second of it.

I only have one itsy bitsy complaint about the book. I'm not a wine girl. I enjoyed the wine talk thrown in the beginning of the book because it made the characters' lives more real. I also adored when the wine talk turned sensual. However, it became a little tedious for me nearing the end of the book when it was just page after page of wineries and wine making.

That said, I enjoyed the book too much to let that bother me. A Lot Like Love was fun, witty and didn't have much of any angst, thank you Julie James! We got to see both Jordan and Nick's POV which is another aspect that I always enjoy. Both characters had great voices. Basically I can sum up this review by saying that this book was a quick read simply because I couldn't put it down once I got started. I look forward to reading more by this author.

Julie James could write about the periodic table and I would buy the book, read it and totally enjoy it. Yes I am a big fan of Ms. James and yes she is that good. My one complaint? I wanted more. I needed the story to go on. I wasn't ready to say good-bye to these characters *sniffle*. And now the long wait begins until the next Julie James offering is available *sigh*.

Her latest release A Lot Like Love is her fourth book and she just keeps getting better. This book features a beautiful, sophisticated, refined, wine shop owner and billion heiress (well she will be one day) Jordan Rhodes and a don't [...] with me (and he has a really good face to go along with it too!), scruffy, just finished an undercover assignment, take charge, Cro-Magnon FBI agent Nick McCall. You can see where this is going right? Oil and water? Opposite ends of the spectrum? No matter how different Jordan and Nick are it doesn't take long before the sparks are a-crack-a-lacking between these two.

Jordan would do anything for her twin brother Kyle who just happens to be incarcerated and that includes getting "into bed" sorta speak with the FBI if it means getting an earlier release for her brother. How hard can it be to carry on a "fake" relationship for one evening? Harder than you think Ms. Rhodes!

I, like Nick don't know anything about wine, care nothing about wine and all it subtleties and when he was asked how an expensive glass of wine smelt - he replied like I would: "Like wine". Ms. James takes the wine world and makes it interesting and so fun with her sarcastic dialogue and witty storytelling. She takes a simple scene about educating Nick in the fine art of wine tasting and makes it totally sexually charged...with no sex at all. Spit or swallow anyone?

Nick is gruff, rough around the edges and puts his don't [...] with me face to good use whenever he thinks it will get him what he wants. But we also get to see a gentler side of him when he has to explain to his old world Italian Ma why he can't make it to her sixtieth birthday party and then there's a small crack in his armour when the "fake" boyfriend routine with Jordan starts to get on his nerves. It was fun to see the big, I'm-in-charge agent get taken down a notch when he realizes he wants more from Jordan than a "fake" anything. It's something he's never experienced before in his relationships and it was good to see him have to work through his feelings for the beautiful heiress.

Ms. James uses pop references in her books that make me laugh. This time in A Lot Like Love she incorporates Twitter and breaking it for 2 days, she references the character Sawyer from the TV show Lost and then the coupe is mentioning Dancing With The Stars (in Something About You it was The Bachelor). These are all things I, as a reader relate to and love. These small mentions really enhanced my reading enjoyment and I am sure I had a perma-grin on my face the entire time I was reading A Lot Like Love.

And finally Julie James provides the answer to that age old question of why men really do watch Dancing With The Stars with their significant others. Makes me wonder if Mr. James enjoys the Monday/Tuesday night viewings?

No Julie James novel will ever equal her first for me. JUST THE SEXIEST MAN ALIVE featured a Chicago sex discrimination lawyer taking on a male movie star who has just been named again as the the sexiest man alive. Her firm makes her work with him because he is playing a lawyer in his upcoming film. Jason and Taylor are major, major divas in their respective fields and the resulting book is wonderful.

The above plot and characters has never been equalled in James' subsequent novels and I think that may be because she decided to vault head first into making the hero an FBI agent for the last two novels, which includes this one. I am not saying it is not a good, diverting, escapist light read. It is. But you will forget about it five minutes later and never pick it up again like I do with the above mentioned first book.

Here's the plot. The wealthiest heiress in Chicago is persuaded to go undercover with one of their agents to bring down a money laundering man for the mob. The enticement for her is that her brother will get out of prison for committing a major terrorist hacking attack on the internet (he brought down Twitter--I really wish this guy existed). The hero is the major undercover agent in that city who will pretend to be her boyfriend for an evening at a major charitable event. Things get complicated though and the two of them have to continue appearing as a couple long after the one evening. Complicating matters is that the target man suddenly gets very interested in courting and marrying the heroine himself.

That is the premise and the hero and heroine are enjoyable. She is a successful wine entrepreneur to the wealthy in Chicago and that is a very interesting part to the book. They take a wonderful business wine weekend to Napa Valley as part of the action. We have had so many "cop" romances, that this wine profession was a nice change of pace. The brother, the hacker, is a very promising character and that could be a really great book if he is next up as the hero.

Visit my blog with link given on my profile page here or use this phonetically given URL (livingasseniors dot blogspot dot com). Friday's entry will always be weekend entertainment recs from my 5 star the store reviews in film, tv, books and music. These are very heavy on buried treasures and hidden gems. My blogspot is published on Monday, Wednesday & Friday.

Undercover FBI agent Nick McCall just finished his latest assignment and is looking forward to some downtime. He takes on a quickie assignment to catch Xander, an upscale restauranteur and club owner with possible ties to the Chicago mob. Jordan Rhodes is the daughter of a billionaire who doesn't live off daddy's money; she is owner of a wine shop that caters to a pretty elite crowd. When the feds ask for her cooperation to get a bug into Xander's office, they dangle the carrot of letting her brother - a well known hacker - out of prison early. But suddenly it is Nick who has to escort her to the party and when they are caught in the charade, it must continue before Xander gets wise, particularly since Xander wants Jordan for himself. Will Nick and Jordan be able to pull the wool over Xander's eyes without falling for each other?

This is my first book by Julie James. While it was an interesting premise, it had a sort of "been there, done that" feel to it, and parts of it really dragged at times. I liked the chemistry and bantering between the two main characters but thought that the aha moment where they realized their mutual lust just seemed a little rushed. The best comic relief came from the imprisoned brother who bears a strong resemblence to a character from "Lost," and how irritated he gets when this is pointed out to him.

A Lot Like Love by Julie James
Contemporary Romance - March 1st, 2011
4 stars

This enjoyable read has more depth than many contemporary romances. The author slowly introduces the heroine and hero so the readers can appreciate their relationship. This was a solid and highly pleasurable read.

Nick McCall is a dedicated FBI agent. He is looking forward to a vacation when he is suddenly pulled onto a `short' case. A rich man named, Xander Eckart is suspected of laundering money for a high profile criminal. And the FBI wants him. The mission? They must infiltrate Eckart's secure mansion at his annual wine tasting event. To get in the FBI decides to bribe Jordan Rhodes, an heiress and wine connoisseur, into bringing one of their agents posing as her date. There they plan for the agent to plant bugs in Eckart's office and find the evidence they need. But this `simple' mission goes haywire when the agent in charge gets the flu and Nick finds himself escorting Jordan instead. Adding to their complications, Eckart wants Jordan for his own! He decides on investigating Nick's assumed identity to find `dirt' on him. Which means they must continue their `pretend' relationship. What could get worse?

The author writes a quickly involving story. Both characters are deep and realistic. Although they both are attracted to each other their forced proximity makes for fun reading especially as they grow to appreciate each other. I liked how they just don't hop into bed together. The pacing is a bit slow in the beginning since both main characters don't spend as much time together. But the author uses this time wisely so the reader can really understand the hero and heroine.

This is a contemporary romance with substance. Filled with real, refreshing and likeable characters readers will be entertained with this enjoyable novel.

Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club

In Chicago, heiress Jordan Rhodes owns the high end DeVine Cellars wine store. She is invited to all the elite soirees and besides her father ranked in the top ten of wealth by Forbes, she is beautiful and charming; ergo men desire her. Jordan's only down is her brother Kyle's incarceration.

FBI Agents Seth Huxley and Nick McCall need to attend the annual Valentine's Day party tossed by Xander Eckhart so that one of them can plant bugs in his office to find information on the man's link to notorious Roberto Martino. The feds visit Jordon at her store where they offer her a get out of jail card for her computer geek sibling in exchange for allowing Nick to escort her to the Eckhart gala; she agrees. However, the scheme goes awry leading to Nick becoming Jordan's escort to keep her safe; however they continue the charade that looks like the real deal perhaps because they are falling in love.

This is a throwback police procedural romantic suspense in which Hepburn-Tracy need to star. The tale combines danger with light humor such as McCall's revelation as to why men watch Dancing with the Stars. Although the bodyguard gimmick has been used a lot in books and movies (see the Costner-Houston film The Bodyguard) sub-genre fans will enjoy the fast-paced story line as the beautiful bodacious billionaire and the fearsome Fed fuss, fight and fall in love.

Harriet Klausner

Jordan Rhodes agree to help the FBI in exchange for releasing her brother form prison. What should of been a one day OP turns into something much more complicated.

This is a great, fast-paced read. Once I started, I didn't stop until I was finished. The best parts were the quips between Jordan and Nick. Even the wine talk and its terminologies were enjoyable - I had no idea you could read certain connotations into it.

"...You give yourself over to the rush, the smooth, silky feeling of the wine, its flavours, its scent, and you taste again. And again. Until you feel that flush begin to build, that warm, tingly euphoric feeling that goes on and on, even after the last drop is gone, before you slowly float down on a cloud of bliss."

Another book that I kept thinking about while reading it was "Pride and Prejudice". Like it, this book is centered around two main characters who both have an unwanted attraction and certain prejudices towards each other. Nick sees his job as a hindrance for any long-term relationship and doesn't fit into her lifestyle. Jordan thinks he's arrogant and that he annoys her most of the time.

"It is a truth universally acknowledged that an FBI special agent in possession of great skill and talent is likely to engage in trash talk every now and then."

Julie James' books are categorized as romance, but this like "Something About You" is more romantic suspense with steam. I enjoy each book more than the last and can't wait for her next one.

I loved the first book in this series, "Something About You," so I was anxious to read the sequel. I have to say that I loved the wine store setting, and learning a little something about wine. However, I did not like these characters as well as Cameron and Jack from Book 1. I thought the whole "Twitter Terrorist" thing was kind of corny, and I didn't care for Jordan's silly girlfriends. Also, in the scene when Jordan is with them, she makes a tasteless joke about her brother, and I don't think a heroine should do that. First she's worried about her brother, then making stupid jokes. Also, there were a lot of references to a particular TV show that isn't even on the air anymore (and one I never watched anyway).

This review is also published at [...]

Special Agent Nicholas McCall has just finished a six-month undercover investigation, in which he helped bring down 27 corrupt Chicago policemen. He is planning to take some days off to go visit his parents in New York, his mother is turning 60 and his family is planning a surprise party for her. But his planes are changed when his boss calls him to his office, and asks for his assistance in a case a younger agent has been working for a while. They need to gather some evidence to be able to convict restaurateur and club owner Xander Eckhart with money laundry charges. And their only option for this, it's to bug his office.

Billionaire heiress and wine entrepreneur Jordan Rhodes is approached by the FBI with an offer she cannot refuse. Her computer genius twin brother Kyle, is been in jail for four months for hacking Twitter and blocking it for two days, Kyle still has more than a year left to complete his sentence.
When Agent Nick McCall and Agent Huxley approach her and offer her her brother's release in exchange for her collaboration in Xander Eckhart case, she doesn't think twice and accepts.
Her part in the deal is to bring agent Huxley as her date to Eckhart's next event and entertaining Eckhart while the agent plants bugs in his office.
She is glad is agent Huxley and not McCall, Huxley is nicer to her while Agent McCall rubs her the wrong way, judging her as a spoiled rich girl.
But things didn't go as plan, the day of the event agent Huxley comes down with stomach flu, and McCall has to take his place in the operation. Some new revelations come out during the party and Jordan and Nick are force to keep pretending to be in a relationship for a while longer than the one planned.
But with the pass of the days they are not sure how much they are pretending or how much is real.

Jordan is a very likable woman. She may be the heiress of a big fortune, she may have had a nice an easy life growing up, but she has always worked hard to obtain what she has. She is smart, has a great sense of humor and is loyal to the ones she loves.
I loved her love for wine (I love wine too). I loved and laugh at the comparison she does between wine and a relationship; I think it was spot on.

Nick is a very strong character; he is a well balance alpha male. He is handsome, caring and funny. Because of his career choices he has lived for years without getting involved with anybody. He prefers life without complications, and then Jordan comes to rock his boat.

I loved Jordan's brother Kyle, seeing them interact was a pleasure that always brought smiles to my face. I would love for Mrs. James to give Kyle a book. I think he will be a great main character.

A Lot Like Love was a great read. I devoured it in an afternoon. The relationship and romance between Nick and Jordan was well presented. I loved the sexual tension between this two. I also loved the snarky banter not just between Nick and Jordan but between all the characters. I loved that agent Jack Pallas and Cameron had a cameo in the story (Something About You). I think it was a nice touch to see them again. Likewise I enjoyed very much the wine information; I even took some notes.

After reading Something About You, I soon became a Julie James' fan and knew I have to read this book. Mrs. James delivers again with her lovely characters and well elaborate story. A Lot Like Love is Julie James at her best.

If you like contemporary romance and you haven't read this author you are missing one of the best authors in this genre. So go and pick one of her books, Now!

A Lot Like Love was amazing!Once more,Julie James delivered a fun and full of suspense story that just grabbed me from the first page and held me there until the last!

This book,as its cover also indicates,is like a sequel to Something About You.There are different characters,but it's set in the same world,and the previous couple makes some appearances in this story also!And I really liked that,because I was in a familiar setting,with a familiar background!
A Lot Like Love was amazing!Once more,Julie James delivered a fun and full of suspence story that just grabbed me from the first page and held me there until the last!

This book,as its cover also indicates,is like a sequel to Something About You.There are different characters,but it's set in the same world,and the previous couple makes some appearances in this story also!And I really liked that,because I was in a familiar setting,with a familiar background!
I have to admit,that I enjoyed a little bit more A Lot Like Love!I don't know exactly why,since the recipe is the same as in the previous book,the romantic plot follows the same pattern and in general,everything follows the steps of Something About You,but somehow,I found this book more fun,the romance better handled and the couple fantastic!

So, I have a thing for FBI agents (damn you Mulder...!),so since the male protagonist was an agent,it would take much to make me dislike him!And Nick,doesn't have a thing I disliked about him!
Jordan on the other hand is a wine enterpreneur and to be honest,I really enjoyed myself while reading all those tidbits about wine!I may not drink wine often,but I always appreciate a good one,and reading all those details about wine tasting just fascinated me!

The dialogues were really funny in most cases,the pace even,and in general,this book appeals to any contemporary romance lover!The fact that there's some suspence in there is just a bonus for me!I always enjoy a romance blooming under difficult circumstances!

Anyway,Julie James once more managed to deliver a fun and totally entertaining story making me looking forward to reading her next book,when available!

There is nothing like reading a Julie James book and it felt like I was waiting for A Lot Like Love to come out. When it finally did and I am able to read it, it reinforced that fact that Ms. James is the queen of fun, witty, smart, humorous (another one of those where I could go on with the adjectives) contemporary romance. If you haven't yet read a Julie James book, you're missing out and you should run (don't walk) to your nearest bookstore and pick any one of her books. You're in for a good time.

Okay, enough gushing... But I seriously LOVE all Julie James books.

The hero of A Lot Like Love is Agent Nick McCall of the FBI. He just came back from an undercover assignment when his boss talked him into a new one that wasn't supposed to take more than a couple of days. But things didn't go according to plan and he was forced to posed as billionaire heiress and wine store owner Jordan Rhodes's boyfriend for the investigation. Nick and Jordan drive each other crazy 75% of the time but Jordan wanted to free her twin brother from prison and that meant cooperating with the FBI. The longer they have to pretend like a couple, though, Nick began to see that Jordan is not the spoiled, vapid rich girl he thought she was and Jordan found that there is more to Nick than the gruff and surly exterior. But with the investigation drawing to a close, do these two have a future together?

I thought Nick and Jordan had terrific chemistry and their banter made for an entertaining read. They were great together but on their own they are interesting people too. Jordan is not a lawyer like previous Julie James heroines but you won't mind at all because she was just as strong, capable, hard-working and as smart as the others but with her own share of flaws. I really liked Jordan from the start and the way she became involved with the FBI didn't sound contrived--I understood her situation and I felt for her. As for Nick, he's a totally sexy FBI undercover agent who calls his mother "Ma" and despite his no-relationships rule, finds himself falling for Jordan. There's nothing more romantic than a tough, manly guy reluctantly but irrevocably fall in love. I rooted for these two and it was wonderful watching them fall for each other.

I thought the other characters were fantastic too, especially Jordan's twin brother Kyle (I can't wait to read his story!) and how we got to see how Jack and Cameron (from Something About You) are doing. The story is mostly set in Chicago which I really liked. Another thing I enjoyed was the whole wine bit--Jordan was a wine store owner and there was a lot of talk about wine and the business side of it. It's really fascinating stuff and I learned quite a bit.

Though the dialogue was not as droll and quirky as Practice Makes Perfect or Something About You, I thought A Lot Like Love was a first-rate contemporary romance overall. Ms. James did not disappoint at all--it had smart characters you fall for, a great setting, a fun plot line and I thought the writing fabulous (love the author's writing style). While this book is not my favorite book by the author (that honor still belongs to Practice Makes Perfect), I tore through the book all the while wishing Ms. James would write faster. A Lot Like Love is a keeper-shelf book and one I'll revisit in the near future to re-read my favorite parts.

4.5 out of 5 stars

Wicked blend of sizzling sex, laugh-out-loud humor, and mystery. Perfect beach book. Practice Makes Perfect is my second most favorite of her books. Ms. James lost her editor, and her most recent book, The Thing About Love, isn't as good as her early work.

A sister will do anything for her twin brother. A man who agree to one last FBI undercover job before flys home for his mother's birthday. They both get pulled into a full blown FBI undercover sting. This fun romance novel has a mix of wine, prison visits, hot FBI agents, society money, amazing chemistry and sweet romance.

If you enjoy this genre I would also suggest; Something About You (Berkley Sensation),Any Man of Mine and Just the Sexiest Man Alive (Berkley Sensation).

I really enjoyed A Lot Like Love by Julie James. I especially enjoyed the characters and the plot twists- and thought the author did a great job. People who enjoyed the first book in the series would enjoy this book.
Happy Reading....enjoy!

I've read several Julie James books, and while they were ok, I didn't think they were special. The suspense added to the romance in this one made the difference. The dialogue was funny, crisp, and kept me interested. The suspense was believable and tension filled, so I happily recommend this one. I really enjoyed the H and h's building relationship and did not find the information about wines too detailed or boring ( and I'm not a wine drinker).