Review: Hands On by Christina Crooks

Hands On by Christina Crooks

Publisher: Samhain Publishing
Genre: Contemporary Romance

Heat Rating: 2

 Blurb

Want to make Fate laugh? Try telling her who’s in charge.
Talented, down-on-her-luck puppeteer Ginnie Anderson’s life seems destined to fall down around her ears. Much like the rented bungalow that’s just collapsed in a heavy rainstorm, endangering her precious collection of marionettes.

Her livelihood in need of protection and repair, she can’t refuse her landlord’s offer of temporary shelter in his magnificent home. Under his roof, though, she finds her hard-won grasp on her independence slipping—and herself falling into his arms.

The hallmark of Harry Barrett’s business success: he never makes the same mistake twice, particularly when it comes to manipulative women. So why is Ginnie, who pulls strings for a living, like a siren’s song in his blood? It’s best to put temptation as far out of reach as possible.

Yet when Ginnie’s past threatens to destroy the life she’s built for herself, Harry must decide which is more important. Holding tight to his sense of self preservation, or letting go to capture Ginnie’s fragile heart—before it breaks into a thousand pieces.

Warning: Contains sizzling sex between a powerful hero who likes to be in control, and a heroine whose talented hands teach him the pleasure of giving up the reins.



Clare's Review

This one was difficult to put down. One of the things that impressed me the most was the amount of research the author put into marionettes. My only real experience with puppets has been with horror movies. Ms. Crooks manages to bring the art of puppeteering to life in a way that tosses aside those kinds of stereotypes. She definitely helped me to see them in a different light.

As with any good story, the main characters, Ginnie and Harry both carry baggage from previous relationships. Ginnie is able to put her baggage aside faster than Harry, which makes for more conflict. They are both exactly the kind of person the other person needs. Harry finds himself inviting Ginnie further into his life even though he’s afraid of being hurt again.

The erotic scenes are warm, not steamy. They are used to further the plot and make us fall for the characters. It was a thoroughly enjoyable romantic novella. I look forward to reading more from this author.

4 Tea Cups!