What do you think?
Rate this book
Forbidden Men #2
To Professor, with Love
*new adult romance*
**explicit scenes and language**
Junior in college. Star athlete. Constant attention from the opposite sex.
On this campus, I’m worshiped. While seven hundred miles away, back in my hometown, I’m still trailer park trash, child of the town tramp, and older sibling to three kids who are counting on me to keep my shit together so I can take them away from the same crappy life I grew up in.
These two opposing sides of myself never mix until one person gets a glimpse of the true me. I never expected to connect with anyone like this or want more beyond one night. This may be the real deal.
Problem is, Dr. Kavanagh’s my literature professor.
If I start anything with a teacher and we’re caught together, I might as well kiss my entire future goodbye, as well as my family’s, and especially Dr. Kavanagh’s. Except sometimes love is worth risking everything. Or at least, it damn well better be because I can only resist so much.
-N. G.-
**explicit scenes and language**
Junior in college. Star athlete. Constant attention from the opposite sex.
On this campus, I’m worshiped. While seven hundred miles away, back in my hometown, I’m still trailer park trash, child of the town tramp, and older sibling to three kids who are counting on me to keep my shit together so I can take them away from the same crappy life I grew up in.
These two opposing sides of myself never mix until one person gets a glimpse of the true me. I never expected to connect with anyone like this or want more beyond one night. This may be the real deal.
Problem is, Dr. Kavanagh’s my literature professor.
If I start anything with a teacher and we’re caught together, I might as well kiss my entire future goodbye, as well as my family’s, and especially Dr. Kavanagh’s. Except sometimes love is worth risking everything. Or at least, it damn well better be because I can only resist so much.
-N. G.-
396 pages, Paperback
First published April 26, 2014
About the author
Linda Kage
45 books5,454 followersLinda writes romance fiction from YA to adult, contemporary to fantasy.
Published since 2010, she first went through a 2-year writing correspondence class in children’s literature from The Institute of Children’s Literature, then graduated with a Bachelor's in Arts-English with an emphasis in creative fiction writing from Pittsburg State University.
She currently lives with her husband, two daughters, a cat named Holly, and nine cuckoo clocks in southeast Kansas.
She started out reading with the Baby-Sitters Club, then moved to Sandra Brown, Linda Howard, Julie Garwood, and LaVyrle Spencer in high school. Now, she's all over the place with her romance reading tastes.
A few of her favorite things have been:
Stranger Things, Supernatural, Cheers, Teen Wolf, Umbrella Academy, Outlander, Yellowstone, Grey's Anatomy, Game of Thrones, The Walking Dead, Shawshank Redemption, Dirty Dancing, Harry Potter, Tangled, A Walk to Remember, Dr. Pepper, Roast Beef with mashed potatoes and onion rings, the poem "Equipment" by Edgar A. Guest, and To Kill a Mockingbird.
Published since 2010, she first went through a 2-year writing correspondence class in children’s literature from The Institute of Children’s Literature, then graduated with a Bachelor's in Arts-English with an emphasis in creative fiction writing from Pittsburg State University.
She currently lives with her husband, two daughters, a cat named Holly, and nine cuckoo clocks in southeast Kansas.
She started out reading with the Baby-Sitters Club, then moved to Sandra Brown, Linda Howard, Julie Garwood, and LaVyrle Spencer in high school. Now, she's all over the place with her romance reading tastes.
A few of her favorite things have been:
Stranger Things, Supernatural, Cheers, Teen Wolf, Umbrella Academy, Outlander, Yellowstone, Grey's Anatomy, Game of Thrones, The Walking Dead, Shawshank Redemption, Dirty Dancing, Harry Potter, Tangled, A Walk to Remember, Dr. Pepper, Roast Beef with mashed potatoes and onion rings, the poem "Equipment" by Edgar A. Guest, and To Kill a Mockingbird.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,064 reviews
March 8, 2017
4.5 Worth Risking Everything Stars
I loved this book. Thank GOD! I have been having such crap luck with my books lately so when I read book one in this series and loved it for about 80% then hated it I was a little scared to start this one. So I was pleasantly surprised with how much I loved this one! To Professor, with love was a teacher/student romance, but it was different in the teacher was a woman and I liked that. I really liked Aspen but I loved Noel. Man Noel was sexy. The sexual chemistry and tension between this couple was off the charts. I loved getting to catch up with Mason and Reese. I also loved all the secondary characters and can't wait for their books. The ending was very cute! I am glad I continued with this series.
I loved this book. Thank GOD! I have been having such crap luck with my books lately so when I read book one in this series and loved it for about 80% then hated it I was a little scared to start this one. So I was pleasantly surprised with how much I loved this one! To Professor, with love was a teacher/student romance, but it was different in the teacher was a woman and I liked that. I really liked Aspen but I loved Noel. Man Noel was sexy. The sexual chemistry and tension between this couple was off the charts. I loved getting to catch up with Mason and Reese. I also loved all the secondary characters and can't wait for their books. The ending was very cute! I am glad I continued with this series.
November 16, 2014
To Professor, With Love by Linda Kage is LIVE!
Amazon: http://amzn.to/1kjUZvZ
Title: To Professor, With Love
Series: Forbidden Men #2 (can be read as a standalone)
Author: Linda Kage
Release Date: April 28, 2014
Rating: 5 stars
Cliffhanger:. No
HEA:
I am one of these girls that just cannot walk away from a book with forbidden romance, especially when it has student/teacher twist. Why? I blame it on the inspiring teachers I have had in my life, as it was so easy to be struck by their love for teaching and passion they've shared with me. I did not fall in love with my professor, though. But the fantasy of it was always very alluring and thanks to that, I find myself enjoying those kind of novels.
When I learned that Linda Kage, author of “Price of a Kiss” one of the best books I’ve read in 2013, decided to write about student/teacher relationship I was in seven heaven. I didn’t even have this book on my ereader but already knew it will blew me away. I was mesmerized by this author amazing storytelling, full of wit and sass, great humor and her ability to create heart fluttering romance, so I was almost one hundred percent sure, To Professor, With Love will be at least written very well. I did not make a mistake. The newest Kage’s novel was everything I loved previously and more.
To Professor, with Love is a story about Noel Gamble, popular quarterback for the university football team. His life in the eyes of the others is guy’s wet dream – girls are throwing themselves at him, he’s the man of the party, the guy that will lead the entire team to championship, but the truth is… nobody knows that he’s poor and has three siblings that need his help to survive. Nobody knows that he works his ass off to get by. Nobody knows that he’s desperate for more and better for his family. That he is certainly not only ‘the jock’, but a good hard working man.
Dr Kavanagh, is not as confident and cold as every student seem to think. She’s not really a bitch that likes to grade Noel’s papers a D just because she feels like it. Frankly, she is the opposite of that. Under her ugly suits, Aspen is normal but lost young woman that tries to find herself in the’ adult world’.
Quickly, Noel and Aspen find themselves in situation where the line between professor and student start to get blurry and where the school policy is only a stupid rule. When their hearts start to do the thinking, both of their careers and chances for the good life in the future are at risk. But how can they stop seeing each other when they feel like they have no else to share their true selves with?
This story was like no other student/teacher relationship I’ve read. It won’t make you even at least uncomfortable as the age difference between the characters barely exist. It was more of a ‘true love’ than ‘creepy cougar wants a young boy to fool around with’ story . It was realistic and believable as well as heartbreaking.
What’s more, I loved the storyline, characters, and the overall beauty of this perfect romantic tale. I honestly can say, that I treasured everything that Linda Kage has come up with. It was really intense and sensual. The slow built up of the romance made my heart race and the extreme, thick sexual tension was fabulous yet agonizing. I was rooting for Noel and Aspen from the beginning. I adored them together.
And when finally, Aspen and Noel surrendered to their feelings and passion for each other, sparks flew! The intimate scenes between them were incredibly steamy and sexy. Even in bed they were perfect match.
I also found secondary characters amazing addition to the story. Every one of them was perfect in its own way and it only made this story seem fuller and even more realistic. Linda Kage’s men are freaking awesome! I found myself being hypnotized by not only Noel but few of his friends also. Even Mason and Reece made an appearance and it was very sweet to see them together.
Summing up, this is a story you won’t want to miss. It’s as perfect and steamy as Price of a Kiss and I wouldn’t have changed a thing in it, even if I could. I have immensely enjoyed this story and I recommend it to every fan of strong, powerful reads with a hint of forbidden.
*Review Copy provided by the author, Linda Kage in exchange for honest review*
FOLLOW SMOKIN HOT BOOK BLOG ON:
Amazon: http://amzn.to/1kjUZvZ
Title: To Professor, With Love
Series: Forbidden Men #2 (can be read as a standalone)
Author: Linda Kage
Release Date: April 28, 2014
Rating: 5 stars
Cliffhanger:. No
HEA:
I am one of these girls that just cannot walk away from a book with forbidden romance, especially when it has student/teacher twist. Why? I blame it on the inspiring teachers I have had in my life, as it was so easy to be struck by their love for teaching and passion they've shared with me. I did not fall in love with my professor, though. But the fantasy of it was always very alluring and thanks to that, I find myself enjoying those kind of novels.
When I learned that Linda Kage, author of “Price of a Kiss” one of the best books I’ve read in 2013, decided to write about student/teacher relationship I was in seven heaven. I didn’t even have this book on my ereader but already knew it will blew me away. I was mesmerized by this author amazing storytelling, full of wit and sass, great humor and her ability to create heart fluttering romance, so I was almost one hundred percent sure, To Professor, With Love will be at least written very well. I did not make a mistake. The newest Kage’s novel was everything I loved previously and more.
To Professor, with Love is a story about Noel Gamble, popular quarterback for the university football team. His life in the eyes of the others is guy’s wet dream – girls are throwing themselves at him, he’s the man of the party, the guy that will lead the entire team to championship, but the truth is… nobody knows that he’s poor and has three siblings that need his help to survive. Nobody knows that he works his ass off to get by. Nobody knows that he’s desperate for more and better for his family. That he is certainly not only ‘the jock’, but a good hard working man.
Dr Kavanagh, is not as confident and cold as every student seem to think. She’s not really a bitch that likes to grade Noel’s papers a D just because she feels like it. Frankly, she is the opposite of that. Under her ugly suits, Aspen is normal but lost young woman that tries to find herself in the’ adult world’.
Quickly, Noel and Aspen find themselves in situation where the line between professor and student start to get blurry and where the school policy is only a stupid rule. When their hearts start to do the thinking, both of their careers and chances for the good life in the future are at risk. But how can they stop seeing each other when they feel like they have no else to share their true selves with?
This story was like no other student/teacher relationship I’ve read. It won’t make you even at least uncomfortable as the age difference between the characters barely exist. It was more of a ‘true love’ than ‘creepy cougar wants a young boy to fool around with’ story . It was realistic and believable as well as heartbreaking.
What’s more, I loved the storyline, characters, and the overall beauty of this perfect romantic tale. I honestly can say, that I treasured everything that Linda Kage has come up with. It was really intense and sensual. The slow built up of the romance made my heart race and the extreme, thick sexual tension was fabulous yet agonizing. I was rooting for Noel and Aspen from the beginning. I adored them together.
And when finally, Aspen and Noel surrendered to their feelings and passion for each other, sparks flew! The intimate scenes between them were incredibly steamy and sexy. Even in bed they were perfect match.
I also found secondary characters amazing addition to the story. Every one of them was perfect in its own way and it only made this story seem fuller and even more realistic. Linda Kage’s men are freaking awesome! I found myself being hypnotized by not only Noel but few of his friends also. Even Mason and Reece made an appearance and it was very sweet to see them together.
Summing up, this is a story you won’t want to miss. It’s as perfect and steamy as Price of a Kiss and I wouldn’t have changed a thing in it, even if I could. I have immensely enjoyed this story and I recommend it to every fan of strong, powerful reads with a hint of forbidden.
*Review Copy provided by the author, Linda Kage in exchange for honest review*
FOLLOW SMOKIN HOT BOOK BLOG ON:
April 20, 2014
FOUR FORBIDDEN STARS.
"knotted together until I didn't know where I ended and he began, we made love."
When I got the opportunity to read and review this up and coming novel I can gladly admit that I was more than just a little excited, in fact I was nothing short of ecstatic. 'Price of a kiss' was one of my favourite reads of last year and it started an addiction to an author that I knew I could no longer ignore. 'To professor, with love' is a novel that is deliciously tempting with an edge of taboo that I'm sure will make most readers enjoy their time spent with this novel. I'm certainly impressed once again by Linda Kage, here's the rest of my thoughts ...
What's it all about?
Popular and talented star quarterback, Noel Gamble works hard, lives his dream and will do anything to provide for those that he loves most. He is determined that everything he has worked for must amount to making a new life for his siblings that he has left back in his hometown, a ugly life that he wants them all to escape from. Dr Aspen Kavanagh is a professor that is not as confident as her stern attitude and ugly business suits would suggest, inside is a woman begging to be loved and after living a loveless life nothing could be more tempting than an attraction that feels like it could be more. When aspen and Noel's lives collide they could never have anticipated that they would find what they need in each other, but with everything on the line this couple have to make the decision to give into temptation or walk away from a undeniable connection that could forever change their lives.
What did I love?
Firstly, I love this authors writing style. I think by now it's obvious that I'm a fan of the talented, Linda Kage. This author always manages to take me away on a love-story journey that is easy to escape into and equally easy to love. 'To professor, with love' was filled with romance, steam and forbidden love with a twist of heart break and depth that made it a charming story. The characters were believable and easy to read about. There's no mistaking that this author has a talent for writing heroes that make the heart go faster and this time around she kept the humour at bay with her vulnerable and ever so charming heroine. Everything about the story line and developing story was well thought out and I even had a delightful second chance look into the lives of Mason and Reese from book one which certainly didn't harm the enjoyment factor. The chemistry and slow burn build up towards the attraction scored points for my reading experience and it certainly wasn't an anti climax once the characters finally made the decision to get down and dirty. I also adored the quotes that Linda added into the book at the beginning of each chapter and throughout the story, I found myself looking forward to what would come next, it's adorably clever that each quote connected somehow to the content of the chapters. Overall this book was a winning combination of love, romance, steam and storyline, Linda Kage has done it again readers.
Why not five?
This book most certainly had five star quality stamped all over it, there were moments that I adored and I was highlighting my treasured kindle like crazy but with that being said as much love as I have for Linda Kage and her forbidden men series when I compared this novel to the first book in the series 'Price of a Kiss' it didn't quite reach the same enjoyment level. I felt like I missed out on the humour, wit and laid back writing style of book one and sadly I didn't connect to the storyline as much as I have with this authors previous novels. However, this book still reached a loveable four star status and I haven't got much to complain about. Linda Kage writes books that I'll always reach out to read and I'm more than happy that I spent my time with this heartfelt story about love being found in forbidden places. I'd whole heartedly recommend this novel to those that have enjoyed this authors previous work and if you are new to this author, then do not think twice about reading this likeable story and meeting a hero that will unquestionably stay in your heart.
Final thoughts ...
As a reader I never gravitate to towards stories involving teacher/student relationships, but here Linda Kage has created a story that captured my affection and love. I never felt uncomfortable with the authors content, instead she got me wrapped up in a love story that left me wanting more. This is a series that I'm excited to see develop and I'm more than ready to read more about this authors addictive characters. If you like to fall for the heroes in your books and you enjoy the new adult genre then this series should not be missed. Go grab this book on release day I can guarantee you will not regret time spent with the delicious, Noel Gamble. Enjoy ... Kisses.
*Guest reviewer for Dirty girl romance book blog, ARC generously provided by author in exchange for an honest review.*
http://dirtygirlromance.blogspot.com
"knotted together until I didn't know where I ended and he began, we made love."
When I got the opportunity to read and review this up and coming novel I can gladly admit that I was more than just a little excited, in fact I was nothing short of ecstatic. 'Price of a kiss' was one of my favourite reads of last year and it started an addiction to an author that I knew I could no longer ignore. 'To professor, with love' is a novel that is deliciously tempting with an edge of taboo that I'm sure will make most readers enjoy their time spent with this novel. I'm certainly impressed once again by Linda Kage, here's the rest of my thoughts ...
What's it all about?
Popular and talented star quarterback, Noel Gamble works hard, lives his dream and will do anything to provide for those that he loves most. He is determined that everything he has worked for must amount to making a new life for his siblings that he has left back in his hometown, a ugly life that he wants them all to escape from. Dr Aspen Kavanagh is a professor that is not as confident as her stern attitude and ugly business suits would suggest, inside is a woman begging to be loved and after living a loveless life nothing could be more tempting than an attraction that feels like it could be more. When aspen and Noel's lives collide they could never have anticipated that they would find what they need in each other, but with everything on the line this couple have to make the decision to give into temptation or walk away from a undeniable connection that could forever change their lives.
What did I love?
Firstly, I love this authors writing style. I think by now it's obvious that I'm a fan of the talented, Linda Kage. This author always manages to take me away on a love-story journey that is easy to escape into and equally easy to love. 'To professor, with love' was filled with romance, steam and forbidden love with a twist of heart break and depth that made it a charming story. The characters were believable and easy to read about. There's no mistaking that this author has a talent for writing heroes that make the heart go faster and this time around she kept the humour at bay with her vulnerable and ever so charming heroine. Everything about the story line and developing story was well thought out and I even had a delightful second chance look into the lives of Mason and Reese from book one which certainly didn't harm the enjoyment factor. The chemistry and slow burn build up towards the attraction scored points for my reading experience and it certainly wasn't an anti climax once the characters finally made the decision to get down and dirty. I also adored the quotes that Linda added into the book at the beginning of each chapter and throughout the story, I found myself looking forward to what would come next, it's adorably clever that each quote connected somehow to the content of the chapters. Overall this book was a winning combination of love, romance, steam and storyline, Linda Kage has done it again readers.
Why not five?
This book most certainly had five star quality stamped all over it, there were moments that I adored and I was highlighting my treasured kindle like crazy but with that being said as much love as I have for Linda Kage and her forbidden men series when I compared this novel to the first book in the series 'Price of a Kiss' it didn't quite reach the same enjoyment level. I felt like I missed out on the humour, wit and laid back writing style of book one and sadly I didn't connect to the storyline as much as I have with this authors previous novels. However, this book still reached a loveable four star status and I haven't got much to complain about. Linda Kage writes books that I'll always reach out to read and I'm more than happy that I spent my time with this heartfelt story about love being found in forbidden places. I'd whole heartedly recommend this novel to those that have enjoyed this authors previous work and if you are new to this author, then do not think twice about reading this likeable story and meeting a hero that will unquestionably stay in your heart.
Final thoughts ...
As a reader I never gravitate to towards stories involving teacher/student relationships, but here Linda Kage has created a story that captured my affection and love. I never felt uncomfortable with the authors content, instead she got me wrapped up in a love story that left me wanting more. This is a series that I'm excited to see develop and I'm more than ready to read more about this authors addictive characters. If you like to fall for the heroes in your books and you enjoy the new adult genre then this series should not be missed. Go grab this book on release day I can guarantee you will not regret time spent with the delicious, Noel Gamble. Enjoy ... Kisses.
*Guest reviewer for Dirty girl romance book blog, ARC generously provided by author in exchange for an honest review.*
http://dirtygirlromance.blogspot.com
August 5, 2016
4.5 I fell for Noel Stars
Have you ever read a book that you simply couldn't put down for the life of you? A book that was so wonderfully written, it not only completely drew you into the story...it made you feel? I'm talking made you feel every heart palpitation, pulse pounding, anxious, nail biting, so full of sexual tension you think you might burst moment along with the characters? Because I swear to you, that's what this book did to me. I devoured it. Me! The girl that lives for my dirty smut and actually does a search for the word "cock" in my books to make sure it's dirty enough. (What? You don't do that?) I got so engrossed in this forbidden love story that I forgot about the smut. Well...I mean...not entirely. It IS NA after all, and the sexual chemistry here is just perfect.
My favorite part of a love story is that burn. You know the one I'm talking about. It's this palpable sexual tension that stretches for so long you think you might burst. But then BOOM, when it finally does happen, it's just that much more satisfying. There's plenty of books out there that will use sex as a filler, as opposed to the icing on the cake that's supposed to be the book. And in my humble opinion, Linda Kage had the perfect recipe here. I adored this book. I loved it. HARD.
If you've stayed away from teacher/romance stories in the past, but wanted to dip your toes, THIS is the book the you start with. This was such a unique, wonderfully written spin on a forbidden love. There wasn't a big age difference (barely any). But what I loved the most, was that the student here was (pause for dramatic effect) MALE.
Ladies, prepare to swoon and fall hard for Noel Gamble.
Noel seemingly has it all; he's the star quarterback, has his pick of women, and a scholarship to a great university. All he has to do to keep it is make sure that he maintains his GPA. But there's one problem that stands in his way; a problem of the 5 foot 4, green eyed, uptight bitch, yet slightly alluring variety. His Literature professor, Dr. Kavanagh.
There's nothing better to me than a book where I fall for both the characters. Dr. Kavanagh may have come off rigid and bitchy at first, but her internal monologue never failed to make me smile. She had such a quirky and endearingly innocent personality, it was impossible not to love her.
But beneath her frumpy clothing and uptight exterior, is a vulnerable young girl that finds herself attracted to someone that is most certainly forbidden.
The way both of them constantly fought the attraction between them kept me turning the pages in anticipation for that moment where one or both of them would finally give in.
Noel wasn't your typical manwhoring jock, but so so much more. He was utter perfection. he was this delectable combination of sweet, vulnerable, and sexy.
The chemistry that between him and Aspen are slowly brewed to the point where it's practically boiling. Gawd but it was delicious. It was simply lust, it went so much deeper.
As hard as both of them fight the attraction, it soon proves too strong for both of them. But the way that it's written never made it seem illicit or dirty. And the vulnerability of both these characters is what truly captivates you.
The book kept me on the edge of my seat equal parts waiting for and dreading that moment for the other shoe to drop. Linda Kage teases and tortures you with different hints of how it may all go down. But I can honestly say that the way it did, I never saw coming.
I went through a ringer of emotions; I swooned, I cried, my heart hurt. It was simply wonderful. I'm not sure how it is that I'm only now discovering this author, but I'll be rectifying this immediately by reading Price of a Kiss (especially since both the characters from that book make an appearance here).
I'm so happy that Linda will be continuing this series with Pick's book next. I'm already salivating to get my grabby little hands on that book.
But let's sum it up with this; do I recommend this book?
FUCK. YES.
I can't recommend it enough. Read it and experience for yourself what sent me into a gushing fangirling episode.
**ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review**
For more reviews visit
I wanted a perfect ending. Now I've learned, the hard way, that some poems don't rhyme, and some stories don't have a clear beginning, middle, and end.
Have you ever read a book that you simply couldn't put down for the life of you? A book that was so wonderfully written, it not only completely drew you into the story...it made you feel? I'm talking made you feel every heart palpitation, pulse pounding, anxious, nail biting, so full of sexual tension you think you might burst moment along with the characters? Because I swear to you, that's what this book did to me. I devoured it. Me! The girl that lives for my dirty smut and actually does a search for the word "cock" in my books to make sure it's dirty enough. (What? You don't do that?) I got so engrossed in this forbidden love story that I forgot about the smut. Well...I mean...not entirely. It IS NA after all, and the sexual chemistry here is just perfect.
My favorite part of a love story is that burn. You know the one I'm talking about. It's this palpable sexual tension that stretches for so long you think you might burst. But then BOOM, when it finally does happen, it's just that much more satisfying. There's plenty of books out there that will use sex as a filler, as opposed to the icing on the cake that's supposed to be the book. And in my humble opinion, Linda Kage had the perfect recipe here. I adored this book. I loved it. HARD.
If you've stayed away from teacher/romance stories in the past, but wanted to dip your toes, THIS is the book the you start with. This was such a unique, wonderfully written spin on a forbidden love. There wasn't a big age difference (barely any). But what I loved the most, was that the student here was (pause for dramatic effect) MALE.
Ladies, prepare to swoon and fall hard for Noel Gamble.
Noel seemingly has it all; he's the star quarterback, has his pick of women, and a scholarship to a great university. All he has to do to keep it is make sure that he maintains his GPA. But there's one problem that stands in his way; a problem of the 5 foot 4, green eyed, uptight bitch, yet slightly alluring variety. His Literature professor, Dr. Kavanagh.
There's nothing better to me than a book where I fall for both the characters. Dr. Kavanagh may have come off rigid and bitchy at first, but her internal monologue never failed to make me smile. She had such a quirky and endearingly innocent personality, it was impossible not to love her.
But beneath her frumpy clothing and uptight exterior, is a vulnerable young girl that finds herself attracted to someone that is most certainly forbidden.
The way both of them constantly fought the attraction between them kept me turning the pages in anticipation for that moment where one or both of them would finally give in.
Noel wasn't your typical manwhoring jock, but so so much more. He was utter perfection. he was this delectable combination of sweet, vulnerable, and sexy.
The chemistry that between him and Aspen are slowly brewed to the point where it's practically boiling. Gawd but it was delicious. It was simply lust, it went so much deeper.
As hard as both of them fight the attraction, it soon proves too strong for both of them. But the way that it's written never made it seem illicit or dirty. And the vulnerability of both these characters is what truly captivates you.
I closed my eyes and bowed my head.
"We might not stand a chance, but I can’t stop thinking about you. I can’t stop craving that connection we share. It’s so fucking strong, I’ve been willing to... God, I would do anything for little stolen pieces of you, Aspen.
The book kept me on the edge of my seat equal parts waiting for and dreading that moment for the other shoe to drop. Linda Kage teases and tortures you with different hints of how it may all go down. But I can honestly say that the way it did, I never saw coming.
I went through a ringer of emotions; I swooned, I cried, my heart hurt. It was simply wonderful. I'm not sure how it is that I'm only now discovering this author, but I'll be rectifying this immediately by reading Price of a Kiss (especially since both the characters from that book make an appearance here).
I'm so happy that Linda will be continuing this series with Pick's book next. I'm already salivating to get my grabby little hands on that book.
But let's sum it up with this; do I recommend this book?
FUCK. YES.
I can't recommend it enough. Read it and experience for yourself what sent me into a gushing fangirling episode.
**ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review**
For more reviews visit
March 4, 2016
I love Linda Kage and accidentally skipped this one when it was released, since then I have read the entire series falling even more in love with the Forbidden Crew. To Professor, With Love is Noel and Aspen’s story.
Noel Gamble is the star quarterback and has his pick of any girl on campus. He is used to getting his way, but is still humble. His home life isn’t glamorous and he carries the weight of his siblings even though he is hours away. I loved this about Noel, he isn’t the typical jock and had so many amazing qualities.
Aspen Kavanagh is a new professor and trying to prove herself, to the university, her family and herself. Despite her position as soon as she meets Noel in class she is attracted to him. She doesn’t want to be attracted to him for so many reasons, but when she has to help Noel after hours a connection is formed.
This book like the others in the series is super sweet and will leave you with a huge smile on your face. I actually loved reading about Noel and Aspen’s relationship and learning about things first hand. I felt their connection was genuine and loved so much the sacrifices they were willing to make for love.
I absolutely recommend this book and entire series! However, I have been asked so many times if this series can be read out of order and I always say technically yes. All the books focus on different couples, so they technically can be read as standalones. After reading the entire series in order, minus this book, I will say I wish I had read this one in order. I don’t feel like I got the same enjoyment out of it that I normally do since I knew what was coming.
Teasers created by me with stock images purchased from depositphotos.
"What if it's worth risking everything to be together?”
Noel Gamble is the star quarterback and has his pick of any girl on campus. He is used to getting his way, but is still humble. His home life isn’t glamorous and he carries the weight of his siblings even though he is hours away. I loved this about Noel, he isn’t the typical jock and had so many amazing qualities.
Aspen Kavanagh is a new professor and trying to prove herself, to the university, her family and herself. Despite her position as soon as she meets Noel in class she is attracted to him. She doesn’t want to be attracted to him for so many reasons, but when she has to help Noel after hours a connection is formed.
This book like the others in the series is super sweet and will leave you with a huge smile on your face. I actually loved reading about Noel and Aspen’s relationship and learning about things first hand. I felt their connection was genuine and loved so much the sacrifices they were willing to make for love.
I absolutely recommend this book and entire series! However, I have been asked so many times if this series can be read out of order and I always say technically yes. All the books focus on different couples, so they technically can be read as standalones. After reading the entire series in order, minus this book, I will say I wish I had read this one in order. I don’t feel like I got the same enjoyment out of it that I normally do since I knew what was coming.
Teasers created by me with stock images purchased from depositphotos.
May 3, 2014
★★★★ 4 Stars!
"What if it's worth risking everything to be together?"
First off, when I read the blurb and found out this was going to be a student/teacher romance, in which the teacher is a woman, I was immediately intrigued. I'm a sucker for a forbidden love story, and I'd never read a story where the student is male and the teacher female. So, was this the best student/teacher romance I've ever read? NO. Did I enjoy reading it nonetheless? YES.
To Professor, with Love is a story about two individuals who couldn't have been more different and who seemingly have nothing in common but who, through circumstances, discover they're much more alike than they originally thought. Even tough they start their relationship as student/teacher, this is not a older woman/younger guy romance since she's 23 and he's 21, so there's not a big age difference.
Noel Gamble, the school's star quarterback and ladies magnet, and Dr. Aspen Kavanagh start off pretty much hating each other. When Noel continuously receives a C or a D on his papers in Dr. Kavanagh's English Literature class, and the school doesn't want to lose their best football player because of his bad grades so he's been given the chance to re-write his latest paper in the hope Dr. Kavanagh will finally grant him a higher grade and that's when things change between the two of them...
"He wasn't supposed to reach into my soul and get a handhold of my heart or squeeze these feelings out of me, exactly as he'd just done. No one should be able to do that in eight double-spaced pages. But he had." - Aspen
Experiences from Aspen's past made her weary of cocky star athletes and she presumes Noel is exactly like the one from her past. But when she learns his reasons for being in college, she begins to see the person behind the star athlete image.
Noel has had a rough upbringing and is still the sole provider for his three younger siblings. On his shoulders rests the huge responsibility of succeeding in college so he'll be able to keep his scholarship, combined with leading the football team and working at a night club. Everyone at school knows who he is and worships his talent, but no one truly knows him or why he's so desperate to succeed...until her.
"I wanted you to look at me and see the success I wanted to be. Not the failure I knew I was."- Noel
Aspen and Noel have a lot of odds against them but as they spend more and more time together, the temptation to become more than just friends becomes irresistible and their relationship slowly develops into something more. I have to say that Aspen wasn't my favorite heroine and I found it a bit odd that she didn't have any friends and that she let herself be ruled so much by her cruel parents, but on the other hand, I also understand why her upbringing made her that way. Plus, Noel more than made up for it with his sweet, sexy ways! With her being somewhat reserved and him being so playful, they complimented each other perfectly.
Overall, I really enjoyed reading this "forbidden" love story with lots of sexual tension, a slight amount of (unnecessary) drama, many swoon-worthy moments and a sweet happy ending. I loved catching up with Reese and Mason from book 1 Price of a Kiss and all the side characters made the story even more colorful and fun to read. One other thing I really loved were the quotes at the beginning of each chapter; they fitted the content of the story really well. Already looking forward to the next part of this series!
"I don't care how many school policies tell us no. I'm saying yes."
"You are mine. And I'm yours.
And we belong together."
September 10, 2016
3--Not So Forbidden-Stars!!
Can it really be considered forbidden when you don't even try to hide it???
Whelp...I can't say I loved this one. I liked parts. Maybe the whole teacher/student trope just isn't my thing. But this one just seemed superficial to me. It was one cliché after another.
And do you think there were enough pregnancies???
Seemed a bit overkill to me.
Honestly I never really connected with the heroine, Aspen. She's a new professor at the college. Outside of her school and her classes, I swear she talked to no one.
Noel is the star football player and a student in Aspen's class. For the first 25ish% of the book they had a real love-hate relationship. Which I kind of enjoyed their bickering back and forth. It was funny.
Honestly, these two did not make one attempt at keeping their relationship a secret. At all. It's like they were begging to be caught.
IDK...too many times I was shaking my head or rolling my eyes. Everything that happened was too OTT and just not really realistic. I found a lot of the dialogue really cheesy at times. But I will admit that the sex was HOT.
A few more things to be mentioned....
The bar scene ....
Not sure what purpose that served. Was it to introduce the character's for the next book?? That was just...
Same thing for the whole "storyline" with Aspen's parents.
IDK...I started skimming after about halfway through. I just never connected with the MCs or the story. You can guess how the story goes.
And I'm just not sure how I feel about the ending.
Can it really be considered forbidden when you don't even try to hide it???
Whelp...I can't say I loved this one. I liked parts. Maybe the whole teacher/student trope just isn't my thing. But this one just seemed superficial to me. It was one cliché after another.
And do you think there were enough pregnancies???
Seemed a bit overkill to me.
Honestly I never really connected with the heroine, Aspen. She's a new professor at the college. Outside of her school and her classes, I swear she talked to no one.
Noel is the star football player and a student in Aspen's class. For the first 25ish% of the book they had a real love-hate relationship. Which I kind of enjoyed their bickering back and forth. It was funny.
"We were split between two worlds. She was the frumpy, genius professor hiding romantic hopes and dreams. I was the stud playboy football star working my ass off to save my poor, broke family. What a pair we made."
Honestly, these two did not make one attempt at keeping their relationship a secret. At all. It's like they were begging to be caught.
IDK...too many times I was shaking my head or rolling my eyes. Everything that happened was too OTT and just not really realistic. I found a lot of the dialogue really cheesy at times. But I will admit that the sex was HOT.
A few more things to be mentioned....
The bar scene ....
Not sure what purpose that served. Was it to introduce the character's for the next book?? That was just...
Same thing for the whole "storyline" with Aspen's parents.
IDK...I started skimming after about halfway through. I just never connected with the MCs or the story. You can guess how the story goes.
And I'm just not sure how I feel about the ending.
December 27, 2016
When you say professor-student love story I am so in!! I have a weak stop for them, as long as the story is genuine and I manage to make a true connection with it. After reading the blurb and realizing that Aspen is the professor I was very intrigued, being the first time I read about a female professor. Don't get me wrong, I have nothing against it, but I wanted to see for myself if the intensity and feelings are the same as in other books where the roles were changed.
This was my first Linda Kage book and after it, I became a fan of hers. I love the Forbidden Men Series and this particular book has a special place in my heart, opening me up to this amazing world of different characters and well written plots. The title as well made me more aware of the feeling the heroes have for one another, because it was impossible not to connect with them.
Aspen is the new literature professor and so eager to prove that she can manage such a job. She is willing to show the whole school and her parents that she is talented and has the determination necessary to succeed at a young age. Everybody is kind of reluctant to her because of how young she is, but soon she will show everybody that the most valuable assets are her brains and heart.
Noel is her student, a cocky QB, with a rough exterior, but heart of gold. Few people know that while studying and working as a waiter at the Forbidden Club, he has to look after his 3 little brothers. He had this responsibility from a young age, with their father being gone and their mother a drug addict. He was mother and father for them and won't allow anything to shift his from his duty. Not even love.
When he met Aspen, he was very attracted to her, but because she was his teacher she was off-limits. Having some problems with his literature assignments, Aspen will help him after hours, and in this way, a form of friendship will arise, leading to more in a short while.
I loved them. They were perfect together. Aspen was so shy and sloppy sometimes, and Noel was this perfect charming boy who wanted to impress his teacher. Oddly enough, they only have a gap age of 3 years, so the difference is not so big between them. Putting them together was a great click, even if both of them had responsibilities and different paths, they managed to complete each other and came to the conclusion that as 1 they were stronger.
I loved how Linda created their moments together, beginning with the first encounters and finishing with the moments in which they were truly in love. Of course their story is forbidden, everybody being against them, like the whole school or Noel's duties to brothers or Aspen's past. But you know what?? I didn't care. This relationship was amazing and believe it or not it was innocent. It was not part of a grand and malefic scenario, just 2 persons falling in love and trying desperately to hang on to each other. Maybe sometimes sacrifices are worth it if when crossing the line you have the love of your life waiting for you.
A big plus were the supporting characters that we will soon learn to love in the next books. They will become this big and happy family and even though the road will be bumpy, it will always end well for them, because of this unity and friendship ties that were just unbreakable.
5 starts to one of my favorite professor-student love stories!
For more reviews please check https://readwithloveblog.wordpress.com
This was my first Linda Kage book and after it, I became a fan of hers. I love the Forbidden Men Series and this particular book has a special place in my heart, opening me up to this amazing world of different characters and well written plots. The title as well made me more aware of the feeling the heroes have for one another, because it was impossible not to connect with them.
Aspen is the new literature professor and so eager to prove that she can manage such a job. She is willing to show the whole school and her parents that she is talented and has the determination necessary to succeed at a young age. Everybody is kind of reluctant to her because of how young she is, but soon she will show everybody that the most valuable assets are her brains and heart.
Noel is her student, a cocky QB, with a rough exterior, but heart of gold. Few people know that while studying and working as a waiter at the Forbidden Club, he has to look after his 3 little brothers. He had this responsibility from a young age, with their father being gone and their mother a drug addict. He was mother and father for them and won't allow anything to shift his from his duty. Not even love.
When he met Aspen, he was very attracted to her, but because she was his teacher she was off-limits. Having some problems with his literature assignments, Aspen will help him after hours, and in this way, a form of friendship will arise, leading to more in a short while.
I loved them. They were perfect together. Aspen was so shy and sloppy sometimes, and Noel was this perfect charming boy who wanted to impress his teacher. Oddly enough, they only have a gap age of 3 years, so the difference is not so big between them. Putting them together was a great click, even if both of them had responsibilities and different paths, they managed to complete each other and came to the conclusion that as 1 they were stronger.
I loved how Linda created their moments together, beginning with the first encounters and finishing with the moments in which they were truly in love. Of course their story is forbidden, everybody being against them, like the whole school or Noel's duties to brothers or Aspen's past. But you know what?? I didn't care. This relationship was amazing and believe it or not it was innocent. It was not part of a grand and malefic scenario, just 2 persons falling in love and trying desperately to hang on to each other. Maybe sometimes sacrifices are worth it if when crossing the line you have the love of your life waiting for you.
A big plus were the supporting characters that we will soon learn to love in the next books. They will become this big and happy family and even though the road will be bumpy, it will always end well for them, because of this unity and friendship ties that were just unbreakable.
5 starts to one of my favorite professor-student love stories!
For more reviews please check https://readwithloveblog.wordpress.com
November 24, 2015
***5 "FORBIDDEN" stars from me***
Whoa!!! I'm stunned for once again...
I think that with every book that i'm reading from this series, i become more and more addicted!!!
I don't ever want to stop reading about them... I want the next stories so badly and even more...
There's so much potentials in here...
In the first book, i didn't met any characters from the next books, except Eva, but in this one i think that i met almost everyone and i can not wait!!!!
But i have to focus on Noel and Aspen now...
Right, here we had to deal with another one forbidden relation...
Aspen was a professor in the University and Noel was a football player and her student...
Interesting right???? But very difficult and once again an ethecal issue....
But really this time, it didn't trouble me as much as the first book...
But let me explain you some things about those two...
Aspen was teaching for the first time in her life something that she loved... English literature.
She felt good with her job and she wanted to be fair with all her students...
She had an unspeakable hatred toward one of them... Noel Gamble.
Noel was the football star around the college. Everybody loved him... The women loved him even more... He was like a god in the campus...
Aspen had a bad experience with a same type of guy back in the school. So she is more harsh with him than all the others...
Noel doesn't like her either. She is the only teacher that made her life difficult. He is trying so hard to be good in her class, but she doesn't appreciated his efforts and that pissed him off...
Now, he is about to lose his schoolarship, if he doesn't get a good grade in her lesson... but he doesn't want to take it without to worth it.
And Aspen is forced from the university to give him a second chance, but she is not going to haddle him a good grade without a big effort from his part...
The only common thing that they have is their hidden feelings.
You see, Aspen as much as she seems to hate Noel, she is feeling lust over him and the same goes for Noel... She is not his type of woman, but she is doing something inside of him...
A failed date in a bar with the name "Forbidden", (How propper is that name!!!) which is working Noel and some drinks are changing their future...
From that moment, they are starting to know each other and what they thought about the other were far from the truth...
Their feelings as every day is passing become stronger and stronger... but they are forbidden to each other...
Will they manage to keep their distance from each other???
Or will they risk everything that they were working for???
Well, i really liked Noel and Aspen... They were so different but at the same time, they were so right for each other.
Noel was a misjudged person and not only from Aspen.
He had a shitty lifeback in his hometown and he had his siblings back there to care.
For them he went to college, for them he is trying to become someone, for them he is working his ass hard in that bar...
And his lusting over his teacher can destroyed all his efforts and his life itself.
But for first time in his life, he is feeling like that...
Never he cared for a girl like the way he cares about Aspen.
He was changing the girls as a shirt before she came and change his life.
Since he got a taste of her, he just can not stay away from her...
I liked Noel, he was real, he was intense and he could do anything for the ones that he loved.
His love of his siblings was amazing. He was strong and he was changing with so much passion whatever he wanted and at the end he wanted only Aspen...
I liked the way he fight for her, for them... and he broken my heart near to the end...
As for Aspen???
She seemed stiff and strict... Under her "teaching" clothes, she remained just a girl no older than 2 years from Noel.
Aspen had live a difficult life also. She didn't missed anything facial than her parents love.
She was a girl that finished all her studies very soon and now for the first time in her life is far away from the place that she grew up...
Except that, she was having a very bad and ugly experience in the past. She is not very open to the people... and she doesn't go well with the opposite genre...
Noel Gamble makes her life upside down and although that this feeling is overwelcoming, there is much on stake for her.
She could lose her job, she could never be able to teach again and her name could be drug on the mud.
Can she risks all of that in the name of love???
I will tell that my only dilemma in here was for Aspen and not until around the end...
I understand her reasons for what she did near to the end but i'm not quite sure that i agree with her...
She took the coward road doing something brave...
*********************************************************
"You. Are. Mine,” I told her. “I don’t care how many times you break up with me or how many other men you try to take on a date. I don’t care how wrong we are for each other. I don’t care that I’ll never be good enough for you or that we’re risking everything to be together. Your mother would never approve. Whatever. Fuck it all. You are fucking mine. And I’m yours. And we belong together.”
*********************************************************
So, i really loved and this story and i can not wait for the rest of them...
In the beginning, i couldn't find the connection between Mason's and Noel's story, but now i know that all the forbidden men are working to the "Forbidden" bar.
I liked that i saw again Mason and Reese and Eva...
I liked that i met all the second characters and i can not wait for their turn.
I have to say that i'm torned if i liked or didn't liked Ten. Yeah, i know that everybody loves him and i'm pretty sure that in his book i will love him too, but he was so immature and i wanted to kill him in some point.
But near to the end, i changed my opinion for him.
And please tell me that we will have a book about Brandt and Sarah??? I would love to reading about them!!! Please, Linda, make it real!!!
So, now i'm going to find out what's the deal with Eva and Pick...
"Who the hell are you, anyway?"
He grinned at her. "Pick."
She blinked. "Pick what? I'm not picking out your name."
Bahaha... We will live great moments with those two!!! I can not wait!!!
Whoa!!! I'm stunned for once again...
I think that with every book that i'm reading from this series, i become more and more addicted!!!
I don't ever want to stop reading about them... I want the next stories so badly and even more...
There's so much potentials in here...
In the first book, i didn't met any characters from the next books, except Eva, but in this one i think that i met almost everyone and i can not wait!!!!
But i have to focus on Noel and Aspen now...
Right, here we had to deal with another one forbidden relation...
Aspen was a professor in the University and Noel was a football player and her student...
Interesting right???? But very difficult and once again an ethecal issue....
But really this time, it didn't trouble me as much as the first book...
But let me explain you some things about those two...
Aspen was teaching for the first time in her life something that she loved... English literature.
She felt good with her job and she wanted to be fair with all her students...
She had an unspeakable hatred toward one of them... Noel Gamble.
Noel was the football star around the college. Everybody loved him... The women loved him even more... He was like a god in the campus...
Aspen had a bad experience with a same type of guy back in the school. So she is more harsh with him than all the others...
Noel doesn't like her either. She is the only teacher that made her life difficult. He is trying so hard to be good in her class, but she doesn't appreciated his efforts and that pissed him off...
Now, he is about to lose his schoolarship, if he doesn't get a good grade in her lesson... but he doesn't want to take it without to worth it.
And Aspen is forced from the university to give him a second chance, but she is not going to haddle him a good grade without a big effort from his part...
The only common thing that they have is their hidden feelings.
You see, Aspen as much as she seems to hate Noel, she is feeling lust over him and the same goes for Noel... She is not his type of woman, but she is doing something inside of him...
A failed date in a bar with the name "Forbidden", (How propper is that name!!!) which is working Noel and some drinks are changing their future...
From that moment, they are starting to know each other and what they thought about the other were far from the truth...
Their feelings as every day is passing become stronger and stronger... but they are forbidden to each other...
Will they manage to keep their distance from each other???
Or will they risk everything that they were working for???
Well, i really liked Noel and Aspen... They were so different but at the same time, they were so right for each other.
Noel was a misjudged person and not only from Aspen.
He had a shitty lifeback in his hometown and he had his siblings back there to care.
For them he went to college, for them he is trying to become someone, for them he is working his ass hard in that bar...
And his lusting over his teacher can destroyed all his efforts and his life itself.
But for first time in his life, he is feeling like that...
Never he cared for a girl like the way he cares about Aspen.
He was changing the girls as a shirt before she came and change his life.
Since he got a taste of her, he just can not stay away from her...
I liked Noel, he was real, he was intense and he could do anything for the ones that he loved.
His love of his siblings was amazing. He was strong and he was changing with so much passion whatever he wanted and at the end he wanted only Aspen...
I liked the way he fight for her, for them... and he broken my heart near to the end...
As for Aspen???
She seemed stiff and strict... Under her "teaching" clothes, she remained just a girl no older than 2 years from Noel.
Aspen had live a difficult life also. She didn't missed anything facial than her parents love.
She was a girl that finished all her studies very soon and now for the first time in her life is far away from the place that she grew up...
Except that, she was having a very bad and ugly experience in the past. She is not very open to the people... and she doesn't go well with the opposite genre...
Noel Gamble makes her life upside down and although that this feeling is overwelcoming, there is much on stake for her.
She could lose her job, she could never be able to teach again and her name could be drug on the mud.
Can she risks all of that in the name of love???
I will tell that my only dilemma in here was for Aspen and not until around the end...
I understand her reasons for what she did near to the end but i'm not quite sure that i agree with her...
She took the coward road doing something brave...
*********************************************************
"You. Are. Mine,” I told her. “I don’t care how many times you break up with me or how many other men you try to take on a date. I don’t care how wrong we are for each other. I don’t care that I’ll never be good enough for you or that we’re risking everything to be together. Your mother would never approve. Whatever. Fuck it all. You are fucking mine. And I’m yours. And we belong together.”
*********************************************************
So, i really loved and this story and i can not wait for the rest of them...
In the beginning, i couldn't find the connection between Mason's and Noel's story, but now i know that all the forbidden men are working to the "Forbidden" bar.
I liked that i saw again Mason and Reese and Eva...
I liked that i met all the second characters and i can not wait for their turn.
I have to say that i'm torned if i liked or didn't liked Ten. Yeah, i know that everybody loves him and i'm pretty sure that in his book i will love him too, but he was so immature and i wanted to kill him in some point.
But near to the end, i changed my opinion for him.
And please tell me that we will have a book about Brandt and Sarah??? I would love to reading about them!!! Please, Linda, make it real!!!
So, now i'm going to find out what's the deal with Eva and Pick...
"Who the hell are you, anyway?"
He grinned at her. "Pick."
She blinked. "Pick what? I'm not picking out your name."
Bahaha... We will live great moments with those two!!! I can not wait!!!
April 29, 2014
3.5 Forbidden Stars
I had a hard time relating to Professor Kavanagh, a twenty-three year old genius (not one friend in the world? Really?). On the other hand, the football quaterback with three mouths to feed in a trailer (siblings) was easier to relate to and he was very likable. I liked these two together, they had some really hot scenes and made a nice book couple.
"We were split between two worlds. She was the frumpy, genuis professor hiding romantic hopes and dreams. I was the stud playboy football star working my ass off to save my poor, broke family. What a pair we made."
Sadly, there was so much silly drama in this book example: Cougar and baby drama at the bar was ridiculous!!!
[image error]
Her loss later in story, was kind of odd (what was the purpose of throwing that in?) while the ending was a bit rushed and predictable.
I definitely liked Noel Gamble and Professor Kavanagh was okay I guess (Seriously, not even a pet as a friend?). Overall, this just wasn't a WOW read for me.
"You are nothing like I thought you'd be. You're better. So...so much better."
I had a hard time relating to Professor Kavanagh, a twenty-three year old genius (not one friend in the world? Really?). On the other hand, the football quaterback with three mouths to feed in a trailer (siblings) was easier to relate to and he was very likable. I liked these two together, they had some really hot scenes and made a nice book couple.
"We were split between two worlds. She was the frumpy, genuis professor hiding romantic hopes and dreams. I was the stud playboy football star working my ass off to save my poor, broke family. What a pair we made."
Sadly, there was so much silly drama in this book example: Cougar and baby drama at the bar was ridiculous!!!
[image error]
Her loss later in story, was kind of odd (what was the purpose of throwing that in?) while the ending was a bit rushed and predictable.
I definitely liked Noel Gamble and Professor Kavanagh was okay I guess (Seriously, not even a pet as a friend?). Overall, this just wasn't a WOW read for me.
"You are nothing like I thought you'd be. You're better. So...so much better."
November 30, 2015
”There is a charm about the forbidden that makes it unspeakably desirable.”
-Mark Twain
I think it goes without saying that I haven’t been able to post many reviews lately. And while I always plan on rectifying that fact, it never seems to pan out as I had planned. I loved this book-though my rating doesn’t show it-and I really and truly wanted to write something about it. It’s not often I pick up a book that I had earlier cast aside due to its content and my knowledge that more than a few pet peeves would be prevalent. But, for whatever reason, I needed a ‘feel good’ book, and I didn’t want to buy a new one. So I searched and searched and searched my iPad for all the books I had bought and not read and this one…this one just called to me. Go figure.
I sighed deeply…for two reasons. One: Well, fuck, she was petting me. It felt too good to concentrate on anything else. But two: I hated to confess my stupidity and that damn tattoo was one of the stupidest things I’d ever done.
No, I didn’t like the cheesiness. And no, the writing didn’t impress me. It’s almost as if the most well-written scenes were centered around Noel (obviously) and the smexy moments and thoughts. Call me crazy, but I tend to like a more circumvent manner of writing. You know, where I can love the girl, too? Maybe the whole story? I know everyone loved everything about this, I’m sure, but I’m not such an easy sell. And, finally, no-I didn’t like how predictable this was. And yet….
We were split between two worlds. She was the frumpy, genius professor hiding romantic hopes and dreams. I was the stud playboy football star working my ass off to save my poor, broke family. What a pair we made.
I loved Noel. I loved the cheesiness. I loved the tortured and broken writing geared towards Noel. And, inexplicably, I loved the fact that I knew what was going to happen. Call me fickle, but when I’m in a horrible mood, it pays to find a book that makes you laugh, smile, giggle like a loser, and gives you butterflies. I love the idea of everything to do with this story-I even love the role reversal of the boy being the student-I just wish it was executed a little better.
Growling through clenched teeth, I scowled at her. “I’m your boyfriend because I’m your boyfriend. We don’t need any more explanation that that. It just is. I’m the one who’s there when you’re sad, and when you come apart in my arms. This…” I slammed her body against mine so she could feel what she did to me, “makes me your boyfriend.”
Noel is your typical clichéd, man-whore, football playing college student-Girls hanging off his arms, gets laid every night (implied), and is the star quarterback. And yeah, so overdone, right? Well, once we got beneath the exterior and saw his broken side (again-clicheeeee), I was putty in his large, man-whorish hands. Sigh. I don’t know what it is about tortured heroes, but they seem to touch me in ways no other book boy can (lies, but let’s roll with it). There’s so much more to him than meets the eye-why he strives to do so well on the field. Why he wants to get drafted to play in the NFL. I’ll even go so far as to say why he drowns himself in meaningless sex, but that might be stretching it a bit. No one knows his real motivations…until a certain professor doesn’t tolerate his shit and gives him a run for his grade.
”Fuck, yes, I love her,” I hissed. And then it struck me what I’d just admitted, but what shocked me most of all was that I hadn’t lied. All feeling drained from my limbs, and my face probably went sheet white as I stumbled back to sit on the closed seat of the toilet. “Oh, shit. I love her.”
I loved Aspen.
Aspen is a young professor. She graduated early and is not that much older than Noel. And, again, I won’t dwell on it because I could care less about her (sue me), no one knows what is really going on in her life. She has had a horrible childhood just like Noel, and when Noel steps into her classroom and demands she give him a chance to raise his grade, she sees no reason to give him preferential treatment-all she sees is the school’s star quarterback wanting to piggyback a good grade so he can keep playing football. But what happens when she gets to know him a little better after a heart-felt essay about his life and family? I think we all know. Sigh.
So, you know, this obviously had a million faults and it made my teeth ache with the ludicrous nature of the dialogue but…there was something there for me. It made my heart happy and gave me feels when I didn’t think I would get any, and that should count for something. Hell, I even was wanting to give this a four, in the end, but that’s bullshit because I did have a lot of problems with this story. Whatever. Maybe it was Noel, maybe it was his desperation, loyalty, undying attraction to Aspen and his ability to sob (aw hell, we all know it’s all about Noel), but, in the end, this story was exactly what I needed. Smut, humor, and a lot of sexy tortured-ness, this book stole my heart…who’d have thunk it.
For more of my reviews, please visit:
****************************
Ya know....this wasn't that well-written and it had many many problems...
Though, as it turns out, I just couldn't help but to fall in love with Noel and his tortured self .
SO SUE ME.
I LIKE HOT, TORTURED, MANWHORE FOOTBALL PLAYERS. I'm only human lol.
Review to come.
October 7, 2016
This is the 2nd book in Forbidden Men series. Although I didn't fall in love with this book as I did with the first one (Price of a Kiss), I loved this one very much, too. It was emotional and steamy hot.
In this one, Aspen and Noel's love is forbidden because she is his British Literature professor at college. But he is 21 and she is 23, a very young teacher who recently started teaching. With that age difference, they could have easily been class mates as well. So their age is not the problem but their relationship as student/teacher for the time being is....
I like forbidden romances if they are written well. This book was mostly very good but I had a few problems here and there. Still, out of 4,5, it gets 5 stars from me...
The plus sides of it:
1. An amazing hero! No, a swoon-worthy, a drool-worthy hero !!!
Noel is so adorable. He was tender, loving, hot and caring, all at the same time. He never gave up no matter what. He risked everything for his love for Aspen. And she both fell for his baby blues and good heart...
2. The heroine was sweet, too. Aspen was a beauty with green eyes and mahogany hair... And their chemistry was good. From many ways, they were "the perfect match"... just not in "the perfect situation".
3. The book makes you feel... a lot... It is emotional and passionate. The love scenes are perfectly written. The hot scenes are scorching hot really...
4. The angst, the plot twists and the ending were all good enough.
5. Seeing my favorite characters from Book 1 in this again was a bonus :)
6. This novel also prepares the foundation for Book 4, 5 and 8, so if you are going to read this series, I recommend you to read them in order for better understanding and maximum pleasure...
7. It is told by dual point of view, giving us a chance to understand both characters.
8. Each chapter begins with an amazing quotation from famous people.
For example:
“There is a charm about the forbidden that makes it unspeakably desirable.” - Mark Twain
***
"I wanted a perfect ending. Now I've learned, the hard way, that some poems don't rhyme, and some stories don't have a clear beginning, middle, and end." - Gilda Radner
***
“What really knocks me out is a book that, when you’re all done reading it, you wish the author that wrote it was a terrific friend of yours and you could call him up on the phone whenever you felt like it.” - J.D. Salinger, The Catcher in the Rye
My only criticism about it:
Well, as I said, they are student/teacher, being attracted to each other and I just didn't like how it started. Other than that, the book was really a good read for me... It was entertaining and captivating.
Here are some quotations from it which may make you want to read it ....
What. The. Hell? This wouldn’t do. It wouldn’t do at all. I’d been craving some woman to help me take my mind off my teacher. And the universe had sent me her wearing a hot black dress instead? Un-fucking-believable.
***
"I do know the consequences. I know exactly what would happen if we started something and were caught. But now...now I want to know the consequences if we didn’t do anything...
What if it’s worth risking everything to be together?”
***
“Because you want to say yes just as badly as I want you to.”
***
He was exactly the kind of person I needed to stay as far away from as possible.
And why was I attracted to a student, anyway? A student !
It didn’t matter that we were practically the same age, he was still an undergrad. The entire attraction was completely unethical. And I had always been ethical. Professional. Hell, I’d come out of the womb proficient at calm, sensible, and orderly. I had followed every rule and policy to a T.
***
“You’re so gorgeous... Jesus, Aspen.” He pressed his forehead to mine. “Nothing should be this good."
***
“You. Are. Mine,” I told her. “I don’t care how many times you break up with me or how many other men you try to take on a date. I don’t care how wrong we are for each other. I don’t care that I’ll never be good enough for you or that we’re risking everything to be together. Your mother would never approve. Whatever. Fuck it all. You are fucking mine . And I’m yours. And we belong together.”
October 7, 2021
4 stars
There are 10 books in Linda Kage’s ‘Forbidden Men’ series, and for some reason I’ve read them all except for books 2 and 10. I thought I would rectify that so I started reading this book which has been sitting on my kindle for years. I’m so glad I did!
It felt so good to be back in this world. Noel and Aspen’s story was great, but my absolute favorite part of this book was just seeing all the characters I know and love. Pick and Eva are my absolute favorite and their book (book 3) is everything so I was ecstatic to see where they got their start.
Noel is the quarterback of his college team and popular. He seems to have it all, but no one knows about his home life, where he came from, and the fact that he takes care of his siblings. Aspen Kavanagh, also known as Dr. Kavanagh is his professor, even though she’s only a few years older than him. Aspen grew up in wealth and privilege but her life has had it’s challenges too.
Noel and Aspen have a rough first go of it. They do not get along, and then Noel rewrites a paper for her and something shifts. These two were magnetic and had so much chemistry. Aside from that, I really love the family and friendship dynamic of this couple. If these books were on audio, I would re-read/binge the whole series because I love them so much!
"You are nothing like I thought you'd be. You're better. So...so much better.”
There are 10 books in Linda Kage’s ‘Forbidden Men’ series, and for some reason I’ve read them all except for books 2 and 10. I thought I would rectify that so I started reading this book which has been sitting on my kindle for years. I’m so glad I did!
It felt so good to be back in this world. Noel and Aspen’s story was great, but my absolute favorite part of this book was just seeing all the characters I know and love. Pick and Eva are my absolute favorite and their book (book 3) is everything so I was ecstatic to see where they got their start.
Noel is the quarterback of his college team and popular. He seems to have it all, but no one knows about his home life, where he came from, and the fact that he takes care of his siblings. Aspen Kavanagh, also known as Dr. Kavanagh is his professor, even though she’s only a few years older than him. Aspen grew up in wealth and privilege but her life has had it’s challenges too.
Noel and Aspen have a rough first go of it. They do not get along, and then Noel rewrites a paper for her and something shifts. These two were magnetic and had so much chemistry. Aside from that, I really love the family and friendship dynamic of this couple. If these books were on audio, I would re-read/binge the whole series because I love them so much!
April 29, 2014
'I could so clearly see myself tossing her down, gathering up her frumpy skirt, wedging myself between her thighs and just hammering it home. I also wanted to wrap my hands around her throat and strangle her for making me feel like such an idiot.'
Genre: New Adult Romance.
Cover: 8/10
Writing: 8/10
Heroine: 6/10
Hero: 7/10
Hotness: 4/10
Romance: 8/10
Extra book Details: Dual POV. Stand alone? Not really.
Noel Gamble's teacher, Dr. Kavanagh is a hard-ass. She's shrewd, strict and has just given him a big massive 'D' for his essay. He pretty much hates her. He hates her judgement, her glare, her frumpy ridiculous clothes, and that fucking stunning mouth of hers too.
Aspen Kavanagh hates everything that Mr. Hot Shot Quarterback embodies, the dumb jock is brings back memories that she'd rather be left forgotten. When Aspen is pushed to give his stupid ass another chance, she's forced to realise Noel is more than just brawn and attitude.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
'To Professor, With Love' started out on a bad note for me. I got the 'blame it on the parents' spiel. I was seeking relief from the NA clichés with Linda Kage's 2nd book, but I got a foundation based on that overdone angst storyline.
As the book progressed, I loved the little love-hate thing going on, it made the characters feisty and confrontational. It also wasn't too taboo, very small age gap and it didn't play on the forbidden too much either.
The inclusion of Mason 'Catnip' Lowe, Reese and Eva was wonderful, Noel's team-mates/co-workers were all awesome too, they were funny and unique guys. They really lifted the whole book.
From 35% to 75% waned for me, the good scenes were few and far between. But the good ones we got were REALLY fab. Unfortunately most of the scenes I enjoyed were the scenes with the side characters.
That 75% mark to the end was incredible! It was sooooo drama filled. And I did love it, even though it was pretty OTT and took place in such short space of time/the book. Would have been much better off spreading it throughout.
I didn't like it as much as the first book. It wasn't as funny as the first story, nor was it as emotional or heartbreaking. I also preferred Mason and Reese. This one scraped a 4 star because up until that 75% it was a 3.5 star.
I am really looking forward to the Pick/Eva story, curious to see how Pick will be 'forbidden' to her.
“Do you feel that? Do you feel what we do together? This isn't normal, Aspen. We are a force of fucking nature. How can we keep fighting this? How.. God. I want to be inside you so bad right now.”
October 16, 2016
4 stars!
To professor, with love is the second book in the "forbidden men series" I enjoyed it so much and I wasn't surprised how much since I've read a couple of books by this author and I know she can deliver.
Aspen is a professor at the university where Noel is a student and is also the popular football QB. Both having had bad experiences in their pasts dislike each other but also are attracted to each other. Their relationship starts a bit rocky but eventually they realize how they judge each other wrong and start a kinda of friendship that turns into love. But they have to hide their love since there's no fraternization at the U.
The story was a bit slow at first I felt there was too much inner thoughts going on from both MC's but then it started to move on. Also Aspen was a bit of pull/push h but then again she had so much to lose, they both did if they were discovered. But it wasn't anything dramatic or annoying especially because we got to see how she was treated in her childhood by her parents. Our H Noel he was amazing guy so caring, loyal and protective of the people he loved. He had so much responsibilities, taking care of his three younger siblings and he always thought of there well being.
Together this two were so great, the depth of their love as it grew was emotional. I actually got teary in a couple of chapters. But they also had those cute moments their flirting and trying to be a normal couple. Seeing how Noel brought out Aspen of her serious shell and just to have fun.
The secondary characters were essential to this story since I know they all have their own books and are part of the series. I love the way the author intertwined their stories and how we got to see previous characters and meet new ones.
This was a wonderful story of two people who didn't want to find love but love found them. But even if it was forbidden with the help and support of amazing friends and filled with funny, and emotional moments found a way to battle their obstacles to be with each other!
Looking forward to Eva and pick's story! <3
To professor, with love is the second book in the "forbidden men series" I enjoyed it so much and I wasn't surprised how much since I've read a couple of books by this author and I know she can deliver.
Aspen is a professor at the university where Noel is a student and is also the popular football QB. Both having had bad experiences in their pasts dislike each other but also are attracted to each other. Their relationship starts a bit rocky but eventually they realize how they judge each other wrong and start a kinda of friendship that turns into love. But they have to hide their love since there's no fraternization at the U.
The story was a bit slow at first I felt there was too much inner thoughts going on from both MC's but then it started to move on. Also Aspen was a bit of pull/push h but then again she had so much to lose, they both did if they were discovered. But it wasn't anything dramatic or annoying especially because we got to see how she was treated in her childhood by her parents. Our H Noel he was amazing guy so caring, loyal and protective of the people he loved. He had so much responsibilities, taking care of his three younger siblings and he always thought of there well being.
Together this two were so great, the depth of their love as it grew was emotional. I actually got teary in a couple of chapters. But they also had those cute moments their flirting and trying to be a normal couple. Seeing how Noel brought out Aspen of her serious shell and just to have fun.
The secondary characters were essential to this story since I know they all have their own books and are part of the series. I love the way the author intertwined their stories and how we got to see previous characters and meet new ones.
This was a wonderful story of two people who didn't want to find love but love found them. But even if it was forbidden with the help and support of amazing friends and filled with funny, and emotional moments found a way to battle their obstacles to be with each other!
Looking forward to Eva and pick's story! <3
May 1, 2018
Sigh.... super lovely and very endearing. I loved the numerous quotes at the start of each chapter. Loved them!! And the romance!??! Nicely done. I couldn’t put this book down. Lol, seriously considered calling in to work for this book.
August 14, 2016
I really enjoyed the first book in this series, Price of a Kiss, so when I saw this book was available, I bought it without even reading the blurb. Sadly, this one just didn't work for me.
I was happy when I realized that the professor was the heroine, because it seemed really fun and different, but that is where the originality ended. I basically thought this book was one big cliché filled hot mess. Some of the dialogue was so cringe inducing, I ended up power skimming a lot of this book because it was painful to read.
I had no special love for either main character and didn't feel a connection between them. Aspen's character was written so over the top it just wasn't believable. She was supposed to be a professor, but most of the time behaved like an insecure, naïve 13 year old. I also thought it was lame that such a big deal was made out of her being only 23. Isn't this supposed to be a forbidden romance? I even disliked most of the side characters, especially Tanning. Good lawd, what a moron.
I could go on, but my experience with this book was a lot of eye rolling and power skimming. This wasn't one of those books that started well and then went bad later, I disliked it from the beginning. My advice to friends would be to check out the sample before buying it!
December 11, 2018
4 Stars (Originally Read 5/18/2014)
3.75 Stars (Re-Read 12/10/2018)
Overall Opinion: This was a really enjoyable re-read! I loved reading about the characters I hadn't seen in a while, and I'm definitely tempted to re-read a few others in the series! I think Ms. Kage is reliable in creating great characters. I always tend to enjoy the I'm-damaged-but-I'll-let-only-you-heal-me type characters, and both of these mcs definitely fit that description. I am, however, dropping this a quarter of a point because I wanted more with the ending! See my closure section below for more on that...Overall, this is a series that I would recommend to anyone that enjoys NA books with a healthy dose of drama and sexy times!
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Aspen and Noel's story. Noel is in a bad place for his athletic scholarship that he is counting on to get through college to provide a better life for his three younger siblings when he gets yet another bad grade on an essay. Aspen is a young professor that is nudged not too gently towards allowing the star quarterback, Noel, another chance at making up his grades. She soon learns that her impression of Noel was far off and that he is not like the nasty jock from her past that he initially reminded her of. They both are strongly attracted to each other, but know that they have too much to lose I feel they give in to that attraction. After more and more encounters where they end up sharing their secrets with one another, they finally give in and start a taboo affair. There is some family and school drama, some sexy times, and some sweet moments...and they get a HEA ending.
POV: This alternated between Aspen and Noel's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good until the ending - see "closure" section below. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well otherwise.
Instalove: No, they take a while to develop stronger feelings.
H rating: 5 stars. Noel. I loved him. He was an amazing H! He was strong, sexy, protective, and loyal. I hurt for his situations and self esteem issues, but I also loved how deeply he cared for those close to him.
h rating: 4.5 stars. Aspen. I really liked her. I felt bad for her upbringing, but it just made me root for her happiness that much more.
Sadness level: Low/moderate. I shed a few tears, but I never needed any tissues.
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW/OM drama: Yes
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: Yes
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This had a kind of abrupt ending where the big conflict was resolved and then we get thrown into the epilogue. I really don't like this writing style, and this is the primary reason for my rating going down. The epilogue was cute, but I wanted to experience more of them working through their struggles together. I would still call it a HEA, but I just wanted more from the ending.
Safety: This one is probably Safe with exception for most safety gang readers depending on personal preferences.
3.75 Stars (Re-Read 12/10/2018)
Overall Opinion: This was a really enjoyable re-read! I loved reading about the characters I hadn't seen in a while, and I'm definitely tempted to re-read a few others in the series! I think Ms. Kage is reliable in creating great characters. I always tend to enjoy the I'm-damaged-but-I'll-let-only-you-heal-me type characters, and both of these mcs definitely fit that description. I am, however, dropping this a quarter of a point because I wanted more with the ending! See my closure section below for more on that...Overall, this is a series that I would recommend to anyone that enjoys NA books with a healthy dose of drama and sexy times!
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Aspen and Noel's story. Noel is in a bad place for his athletic scholarship that he is counting on to get through college to provide a better life for his three younger siblings when he gets yet another bad grade on an essay. Aspen is a young professor that is nudged not too gently towards allowing the star quarterback, Noel, another chance at making up his grades. She soon learns that her impression of Noel was far off and that he is not like the nasty jock from her past that he initially reminded her of. They both are strongly attracted to each other, but know that they have too much to lose I feel they give in to that attraction. After more and more encounters where they end up sharing their secrets with one another, they finally give in and start a taboo affair. There is some family and school drama, some sexy times, and some sweet moments...and they get a HEA ending.
POV: This alternated between Aspen and Noel's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good until the ending - see "closure" section below. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well otherwise.
Instalove: No, they take a while to develop stronger feelings.
H rating: 5 stars. Noel. I loved him. He was an amazing H! He was strong, sexy, protective, and loyal. I hurt for his situations and self esteem issues, but I also loved how deeply he cared for those close to him.
h rating: 4.5 stars. Aspen. I really liked her. I felt bad for her upbringing, but it just made me root for her happiness that much more.
Sadness level: Low/moderate. I shed a few tears, but I never needed any tissues.
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW/OM drama: Yes
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: Yes
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This had a kind of abrupt ending where the big conflict was resolved and then we get thrown into the epilogue. I really don't like this writing style, and this is the primary reason for my rating going down. The epilogue was cute, but I wanted to experience more of them working through their struggles together. I would still call it a HEA, but I just wanted more from the ending.
Safety: This one is probably Safe with exception for most safety gang readers depending on personal preferences.
August 24, 2020
“You are mine and i am your. And we belong together”
This book is emotional, passionate, and alluring. Noel is a drool-worthy hero. He is just awesome. He is caring, loving, and hot.Aspen is such a sweet heroine.
Most importantly, this book made me feel. I felt their emotions, connection, struggles. Also, the baby drama regarding Mason was totally unexpected.
“It's always the one you shouldn't want that you end up wanting the most”
September 9, 2016
I don't care how many school policies tell us no. I'm saying yes.
Before reading this I had never read anything by Linda Kage. After reading this I want to read everything by Linda Kage. One of my favorite types of romance reads is teacher student relationships. There's something enticing about the forbidden, secretive aspect of these relationships.
Noel Gamble
"The pull I felt toward this woman was crazy, and I knew I should fight it, but I kept forgetting why."
In this book Noel is a college junior, star athlete and self proclaimed ladies man. At first it was really hard to like him because he appeared to be a total dick. He doesn't have to work hard to get any girl he wants, in fact they flock to him. When Noel receives a D on a paper in his Modern American Literature class, he runs the risk of failing the class, he then decides to speak to his professor Dr. Kavanagh.
Aspen Kavanagh
"I just couldn't keep away from him. And I didn't want to."
Dr. Aspen Kavanagh knows all about guys like Noel, she's gotten her heart broken in high school by a guy like him before, so she resolves to stay clear of Noel, and keep their relationship on a strictly professional basis. She dresses in frumpy suits, and has a no nonsense demeanor that keeps her closed off from those around her. Noel however makes it hard for her to resist him. He's a temptation she doesn't want or need in her life. Having a personal relationship with a student would not only get her fired and ruin her career, it would destroy all that she has worked so hard for over the years. Aspen has her own demons to fight in the form of her broken relationship with her parents, and other familial problems. Noel brings out a side of Aspen that she keeps hidden from the world.
The attraction between Noel and Aspen is irresistible, and soon they find themselves engaged in a forbidden relationship that has the power to ruin both their lives.
I felt the connection between these two and their physical attraction was hot. One of the things some say about love is that you should find someone who makes you better, and Noel brought out the best in Aspen. He made her challenge herself, and just let go and enjoy life.
I enjoyed this book for many reasons. The main one being it was different from the other teacher student romances I've read, and I've read quite a few. Usually there's a female student pursuing a male teacher, but in this case the roles were reversed, with a male student pursuing his female professor. There was more to Noel than him being just a dumb jock, the love and care he showed to his younger siblings was truly heart warming. I enjoyed the author's use of quotes throughout the story, and I will definitely be making a quotes board like Aspen has in her office. The time jump epilogue at the end was fantastic and the ending was beautiful. This is definitely a recommended for NA fans, and those who enjoy teacher student romances.
"Why do you make it so hard for me to resist you?"
Rating: 4.5 Professor Loving Stars
ARC kindly provided by Linda Kage in exchange for an honest review.
July 30, 2019
Updated rating again 30/07/19:
5 stars. When you still love reading a book for the 3rd time and enjoy it even more than you did the first 2 times, you gotta bump it up to a full 5 stars as it deserves.
Updated rating 16/08/18:
4.5 stars. Because I felt compelled to read this again and if a story can still have me gripped and unable to put down on the 2nd go, then it deserves to be bumped up in my books.
Original rating 31/07/18:
4.25 stars. I enjoyed this one far more than I thought I would.
5 stars. When you still love reading a book for the 3rd time and enjoy it even more than you did the first 2 times, you gotta bump it up to a full 5 stars as it deserves.
Updated rating 16/08/18:
4.5 stars. Because I felt compelled to read this again and if a story can still have me gripped and unable to put down on the 2nd go, then it deserves to be bumped up in my books.
Original rating 31/07/18:
4.25 stars. I enjoyed this one far more than I thought I would.
September 8, 2021
I AM IN LOVE WITH NOEL GAMBLE!!!!!!!
💞💞💞💞💞💞💞💞💞💞💞💞💞💞💞💞💞💞💞
“It's always the one you shouldn't want that you end up wanting the most”
It's been a long time since I read a book that I couldn't stop thinking about. Where I almost wish the book boyfriend was real & MINE! It's possible I haven't loved a book/boyfriend this much since Christian Grey (yes, I am a CG lover...sue me!) Even the guy on the cover is freaking HOT and put a perfect picture in my head.
Noel,
With all of that, there was so much more to love! Sexy Mason Lowe from Price of a Kiss was in it with Reese and Eva. You got to meet more of the amazing guys from Forbidden. Then you had the love of Gamble, Aspen. She was the perfect heroine...she wasn't a pushover, a little awkward but super cute. I rarely read a series back to back. I read other things in between but not this time. I'm starting book 3 as soon as I'm through with this review.
Aspen,
There were so many highlighted lines in it that I absolutely loved. Also, I have always liked when the book cover is of a special moment from the story. Which is the case with this cover. Those two things alone make Linda Kage one of my favorite authors. It'll be awhile to find another that will replace Noel Gamble for me and I'm totally fine with that.
I feel I have to add how Mrs. Kage put special quotes at the beginning of the chapters. Each one was exactly perfect. I kept thinking "I feel that way too!" Lastly, the sex was smoking Hot especially the first time. And I don't feel there is anything sexier than a heartbroken Gamble. I'm in looovve!
💞💞💞💞💞💞💞💞💞💞💞💞💞💞💞💞💞💞💞
“It's always the one you shouldn't want that you end up wanting the most”
It's been a long time since I read a book that I couldn't stop thinking about. Where I almost wish the book boyfriend was real & MINE! It's possible I haven't loved a book/boyfriend this much since Christian Grey (yes, I am a CG lover...sue me!) Even the guy on the cover is freaking HOT and put a perfect picture in my head.
Noel,
With all of that, there was so much more to love! Sexy Mason Lowe from Price of a Kiss was in it with Reese and Eva. You got to meet more of the amazing guys from Forbidden. Then you had the love of Gamble, Aspen. She was the perfect heroine...she wasn't a pushover, a little awkward but super cute. I rarely read a series back to back. I read other things in between but not this time. I'm starting book 3 as soon as I'm through with this review.
Aspen,
There were so many highlighted lines in it that I absolutely loved. Also, I have always liked when the book cover is of a special moment from the story. Which is the case with this cover. Those two things alone make Linda Kage one of my favorite authors. It'll be awhile to find another that will replace Noel Gamble for me and I'm totally fine with that.
I feel I have to add how Mrs. Kage put special quotes at the beginning of the chapters. Each one was exactly perfect. I kept thinking "I feel that way too!" Lastly, the sex was smoking Hot especially the first time. And I don't feel there is anything sexier than a heartbroken Gamble. I'm in looovve!
September 2, 2016
2.25 i know i cant have you but i want you anyway stars
Aspen has a new job, as an English Literature Professor. Little does she know, it’s the same college that Noel attends. Noel is instantly attracted to Dr. Kavanagh, but he doesn't know why, she’s all frumpy, and couldn't possibly be as young as she looks. When Noel decides to confront her about his C’s and D’s, sparks fly. But will they be able to stick together when their love is forbidden...
Noel and Aspen are the ultimate forbidden romance. Aspen is Noel’s English Literature professor, and the college has a no student teacher relationship stance. Everyone is either for or against, there is sadly no in-between. This mainly consists of workmates, Noel’s family, and their friends. Everyone else is against them being together, which is a bit strange as there are no grey areas.
And their oh-so-secret romance wasn't really that secret, although they were ‘trying to hide it’
The idea of the plot is great, and is the second series I have read about this type, the first one being Gabriel's Inferno by Sylvain Reynard except the professor is male in GI. I have enjoyed both of the series, and is sort of a new area that I have decided to read about. There’s only so many I can read about “Boy meets Girl” “Boy loves Girl” “Girl doesn't love Boy” “Boy convinces Girl” “Girl loves Boy” if you catch my drift. I’m sure you’re read more books like that than you ever want to, really. Go on! Admit it!
Noel is the eldest brother of four siblings, with two younger brothers and a sister. Their mother is trailer trash, and a whore. They don’t have much in the way of money, but Noel is trying really hard to pass college and get a well paid job, so he can give them a better life than what he has had. This is a little cliché, but has been written fairly well, so well in fact that it didn’t bother me much at all.
There were a few little niggles that bothered me though, like when Oh, yeah, and when she thought And god. How many
I received a copy of To Professor, with Love in exchange for an honest review
Aspen has a new job, as an English Literature Professor. Little does she know, it’s the same college that Noel attends. Noel is instantly attracted to Dr. Kavanagh, but he doesn't know why, she’s all frumpy, and couldn't possibly be as young as she looks. When Noel decides to confront her about his C’s and D’s, sparks fly. But will they be able to stick together when their love is forbidden...
Noel and Aspen are the ultimate forbidden romance. Aspen is Noel’s English Literature professor, and the college has a no student teacher relationship stance. Everyone is either for or against, there is sadly no in-between. This mainly consists of workmates, Noel’s family, and their friends. Everyone else is against them being together, which is a bit strange as there are no grey areas.
And their oh-so-secret romance wasn't really that secret, although they were ‘trying to hide it’
The idea of the plot is great, and is the second series I have read about this type, the first one being Gabriel's Inferno by Sylvain Reynard except the professor is male in GI. I have enjoyed both of the series, and is sort of a new area that I have decided to read about. There’s only so many I can read about “Boy meets Girl” “Boy loves Girl” “Girl doesn't love Boy” “Boy convinces Girl” “Girl loves Boy” if you catch my drift. I’m sure you’re read more books like that than you ever want to, really. Go on! Admit it!
Noel is the eldest brother of four siblings, with two younger brothers and a sister. Their mother is trailer trash, and a whore. They don’t have much in the way of money, but Noel is trying really hard to pass college and get a well paid job, so he can give them a better life than what he has had. This is a little cliché, but has been written fairly well, so well in fact that it didn’t bother me much at all.
There were a few little niggles that bothered me though, like when Oh, yeah, and when she thought And god. How many
I received a copy of To Professor, with Love in exchange for an honest review
April 14, 2014
"You don't love someone because of their looks or their clothes or their car. You love them because they sing a song only your heart can understand" - L.J. Smith
I am not a fan of Teacher/Student relationships. They give me the skeeves and make we want to run and hide. Except for when they are done correctly. The age difference can't be to far apart, it can't be in high school and it has to grab me from their very first interaction.
(Slammed does not count so just stop right there)
It's so refreshing to read a book by an author that just keeps putting out books that make you laugh, make you shake your head and make you want more. Linda Kage is that kind of author for me.
To Professor, with Love is a book that keeps you wrapped up in it from the beginning. It surprised the heck out of me entire time I was reading and I loved the journey she takes you on.
The character development, the back stories, the relationships, the love, the anger, the fuck ups, the sex, the back and forth, it all just spoke to me.
Ohhh, Myyy, Gawd. Noel Gamble has worked his way up my book boyfriend list. This man you think is a grade a douche. But he has more layers than a fucking onion. He just needed someone to pile them away layer by layer. The chemistry he has with Aspen set me on fire. I honestly don't know how no one figured it out. You could cut that shit with a knife. He made me swoon, he made me laugh, shake my head and sigh all in the same paragraph.
Linda Kage can write one hell of a male POV. I secretly wonder if she is a 20 something young man pretending to be a grown women, that is how amazing her male POV are.
Best part about the book are the quotes. She had chosen such amazing quotes, that made me want to re read the book or go searching for it so I can read it.
I love that Mason and Reece showed up and they even had a little something something going on. Price of Kiss was such an amazing read for me, so to see them show up made me smile. I love how while reading, you saw the side characters, saw a story brewing and praying to whatever god you believe in that there will be a book about them.
The ending? OMG. I could not have asked for a better ending to this book. It like Linda Kage knows exactly what every reader wants and needs at the end of a book and she surprises you and gives you a shit load more.
I am not a fan of Teacher/Student relationships. They give me the skeeves and make we want to run and hide. Except for when they are done correctly. The age difference can't be to far apart, it can't be in high school and it has to grab me from their very first interaction.
(Slammed does not count so just stop right there)
It's so refreshing to read a book by an author that just keeps putting out books that make you laugh, make you shake your head and make you want more. Linda Kage is that kind of author for me.
To Professor, with Love is a book that keeps you wrapped up in it from the beginning. It surprised the heck out of me entire time I was reading and I loved the journey she takes you on.
The character development, the back stories, the relationships, the love, the anger, the fuck ups, the sex, the back and forth, it all just spoke to me.
Ohhh, Myyy, Gawd. Noel Gamble has worked his way up my book boyfriend list. This man you think is a grade a douche. But he has more layers than a fucking onion. He just needed someone to pile them away layer by layer. The chemistry he has with Aspen set me on fire. I honestly don't know how no one figured it out. You could cut that shit with a knife. He made me swoon, he made me laugh, shake my head and sigh all in the same paragraph.
Linda Kage can write one hell of a male POV. I secretly wonder if she is a 20 something young man pretending to be a grown women, that is how amazing her male POV are.
Best part about the book are the quotes. She had chosen such amazing quotes, that made me want to re read the book or go searching for it so I can read it.
I love that Mason and Reece showed up and they even had a little something something going on. Price of Kiss was such an amazing read for me, so to see them show up made me smile. I love how while reading, you saw the side characters, saw a story brewing and praying to whatever god you believe in that there will be a book about them.
The ending? OMG. I could not have asked for a better ending to this book. It like Linda Kage knows exactly what every reader wants and needs at the end of a book and she surprises you and gives you a shit load more.
November 24, 2016
Absolutely loved this one!!! A fantastic story about a teacher and a student falling in love!!!
Review to come!!!
Review to come!!!
May 4, 2014
Although I eagerly anticipated this book, I was hesitant to read it after reading a few mixed reviews but I'm happy to report that I loved it.
Linda Kage has the ability to make me feel, and the way she writes a slow build up of pent up emotions is something I often crave in a book. I loved both characters, especially Noah the popular football player with a vulnerable side, he was sweet and sexy. Aspen was just a woman craving love who never really had the chance to have fun or take risks as a teenager, so I wasn't surprised that she behaved the way she did.
Not as good as book 1, but I enjoyed it a lot and look forward to Pick and Eva's story.
Linda Kage has the ability to make me feel, and the way she writes a slow build up of pent up emotions is something I often crave in a book. I loved both characters, especially Noah the popular football player with a vulnerable side, he was sweet and sexy. Aspen was just a woman craving love who never really had the chance to have fun or take risks as a teenager, so I wasn't surprised that she behaved the way she did.
Not as good as book 1, but I enjoyed it a lot and look forward to Pick and Eva's story.
January 31, 2015
“Do you feel that? Do you feel what we do together? This isn’t normal, Aspen. We are a force of fucking nature.”
Hell yeah, you are! And I loved it! 4.5 stars.
I fell in love with Linda Kage’s Price of a Kiss last year, and this is a fantastic follow up! Very loosely linked to the first book, this one features another ‘forbidden’ relationship - a student/teacher situation, and in a bit of a twist on that popular formula, this time it’s the woman that is the teacher! But it’s not really that shocking, with there only being a two year age gap between our star-crossed lovers.
Noel is the arrogant, man-whoring quarterback of his college football team. Poised for NFL success, he is gorgeously sexy, and he knows it. But his confidence masks a shameful past, and a tragic family situation. He is, in fact, working his butt off to keep his scholarship and find success so that he can look after his family. Threatening his scholarship is his seemingly uptight and hard-ass English Professor.
Dr Aspen Kavanagh was a bit of a child genius. Graduating high school and College early and earning her PhD, she is now a 23 year old University Lecturer and is working hard to prove herself as professional and mature in her first job. Coming from a strict upbringing, she has never known love and leads a solitary life, losing herself in her books without making any real connections with anybody else. But she has noticed the school’s hot football star in her class, and finds herself wildly attracted to him.
When Noel’s English grades threaten his scholarship, it brings the two of them into conflict, and there is some serious animosity between them! He thinks she is a hard-ass, she thinks he is a conceited asshole, but there is some serious lusting going on.
I must confess that I didn’t feel their attraction as quickly as I was expecting, but Kage does a fabulous job at building the chemistry, and instead we get to witness a slow realisation of what these characters are feeling and then see them react to it before caving to the inevitable.
When circumstances lead them to unintentionally open up to each other in a way they have never done with anybody else before, it signals a huge change in their relationship, and from then on, it’s an emotional and UST-filled rollercoaster, and I loved every minute of it!
The relationship between them builds beautifully and realistically, with the taboo nature of their ‘fraternization’ bringing an added dimension of drama to the story. But they are both mature about the situation, and deal with everything functionally and honestly.
And OMG, Noel proves himself to be an INCREDIBLE leading man! Not afraid to share his feelings, he is a perfect mix of vulnerability and strength and is absolutely full of swoon. Not surprisingly, I fell madly in love with him.
I love his absolute belief that he and Aspen belong together – especially in spite of all that stands in their way. His love for her is totally overwhelming,
The relationship between these two characters is amazing. I could feel their love and passion for each other, and the depth of their need for each other, and was completely swept away in the romance of it all. But they both have their own personal issues to deal with, as well as the huge secret of their relationship, and what follows is an emotional rollercoaster ride as their hearts battle against the reality of their situation and they face some huge obstacles. The emotion is beautifully portrayed, and I felt everything right along with them – the giddy highs, the devastating lows and everything in between – including a WHOLE heap of hotness! And I loved it all. Plus it’s all tied up with a beautiful epilogue which provides great closure to their story.
The side characters are well fleshed out and make important contributions to the story. There is a fantastic intro to the characters featured in the next book (I love Pick already!), and I’m hoping for more from Ten and even Brandt in the future. And Mason and Reese from Price of a Kiss both appear, and I enjoyed seeing them again.
I love Linda Kage’s writing, it is funny, romantic and sexy, and the banter is epic, but she also manages to be profound with brilliant little quotes sprinkled throughout the story – from both famous literature, as well as some of my contemporary favourites, and it added additional personality to the story.
I was completely enthralled by Noel and Aspen’s story, and couldn’t put it down. I am eagerly awaiting more from this author.
I loved it – 4.5 stars.
Hell yeah, you are! And I loved it! 4.5 stars.
I fell in love with Linda Kage’s Price of a Kiss last year, and this is a fantastic follow up! Very loosely linked to the first book, this one features another ‘forbidden’ relationship - a student/teacher situation, and in a bit of a twist on that popular formula, this time it’s the woman that is the teacher! But it’s not really that shocking, with there only being a two year age gap between our star-crossed lovers.
Noel is the arrogant, man-whoring quarterback of his college football team. Poised for NFL success, he is gorgeously sexy, and he knows it. But his confidence masks a shameful past, and a tragic family situation. He is, in fact, working his butt off to keep his scholarship and find success so that he can look after his family. Threatening his scholarship is his seemingly uptight and hard-ass English Professor.
Dr Aspen Kavanagh was a bit of a child genius. Graduating high school and College early and earning her PhD, she is now a 23 year old University Lecturer and is working hard to prove herself as professional and mature in her first job. Coming from a strict upbringing, she has never known love and leads a solitary life, losing herself in her books without making any real connections with anybody else. But she has noticed the school’s hot football star in her class, and finds herself wildly attracted to him.
Noel Gamble was art, like God’s apology for all the regular men in the world.
When Noel’s English grades threaten his scholarship, it brings the two of them into conflict, and there is some serious animosity between them! He thinks she is a hard-ass, she thinks he is a conceited asshole, but there is some serious lusting going on.
How this one tiny little person could get me so instantly and completely riled, I didn’t know. But here I was, mad, turned-on, ashamed, alarmed and frankly disturbed by my attraction.
I must confess that I didn’t feel their attraction as quickly as I was expecting, but Kage does a fabulous job at building the chemistry, and instead we get to witness a slow realisation of what these characters are feeling and then see them react to it before caving to the inevitable.
When circumstances lead them to unintentionally open up to each other in a way they have never done with anybody else before, it signals a huge change in their relationship, and from then on, it’s an emotional and UST-filled rollercoaster, and I loved every minute of it!
The relationship between them builds beautifully and realistically, with the taboo nature of their ‘fraternization’ bringing an added dimension of drama to the story. But they are both mature about the situation, and deal with everything functionally and honestly.
“We might not stand a chance, but I can’t stop thinking about you. I can’t stop craving that connection we share. It’s so fucking strong, I’ve been willing to… God, I would do anything for little stolen pieces of you.”
And OMG, Noel proves himself to be an INCREDIBLE leading man! Not afraid to share his feelings, he is a perfect mix of vulnerability and strength and is absolutely full of swoon. Not surprisingly, I fell madly in love with him.
“What we’re doing is wrong. Making it a one-time deal is wrong. Trying to convince ourselves it was dirty and tawdry and something to be ashamed of is wrong. It was the best damn sex of my life, Aspen. I felt connected to you, like hell, I don’t know … I was sharing something deep and meaningful…with you. I don’t care how many school policies tell us no. I’m saying yes.”
I love his absolute belief that he and Aspen belong together – especially in spite of all that stands in their way. His love for her is totally overwhelming,
“You. Are. Mine … I don’t care how wrong we are for each other. I don’t care that I’ll never be good enough for you or that we’re risking everything to be together. Your mother would never approve. Whatever. Fuck it all. You are fucking mine. And I’m yours. And we belong together.”
The relationship between these two characters is amazing. I could feel their love and passion for each other, and the depth of their need for each other, and was completely swept away in the romance of it all. But they both have their own personal issues to deal with, as well as the huge secret of their relationship, and what follows is an emotional rollercoaster ride as their hearts battle against the reality of their situation and they face some huge obstacles. The emotion is beautifully portrayed, and I felt everything right along with them – the giddy highs, the devastating lows and everything in between – including a WHOLE heap of hotness! And I loved it all. Plus it’s all tied up with a beautiful epilogue which provides great closure to their story.
The side characters are well fleshed out and make important contributions to the story. There is a fantastic intro to the characters featured in the next book (I love Pick already!), and I’m hoping for more from Ten and even Brandt in the future. And Mason and Reese from Price of a Kiss both appear, and I enjoyed seeing them again.
I love Linda Kage’s writing, it is funny, romantic and sexy, and the banter is epic, but she also manages to be profound with brilliant little quotes sprinkled throughout the story – from both famous literature, as well as some of my contemporary favourites, and it added additional personality to the story.
“Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don’t matter, and those who matter, don’t mind.” – Bernard M. Baruch
I was completely enthralled by Noel and Aspen’s story, and couldn’t put it down. I am eagerly awaiting more from this author.
I loved it – 4.5 stars.
August 14, 2014
Rating Clarification: 3.5 stars
I had a few issues with this one. The first one being how Noel acted (and what he said) towards Aspen, I know he wasn't like that throughout the entire book but I don't know, the way he acted stuck with me. There was also Ten, he said something very rude about Aspen at the beginning and even though we saw later on that he wasn't a bad guy but I just couldn't help but remember what he said. Then there was the chemistry between Noel & Aspen, which honestly, I didn't see. Maybe it was just me but yea, I just couldn't see the connection. I think my favorite part was that scene with Reese, Mason and and that didn't even involve any of the main characters directly. All in all, I didn't hate the book but I can't say that I loved it either.
I had a few issues with this one. The first one being how Noel acted (and what he said) towards Aspen, I know he wasn't like that throughout the entire book but I don't know, the way he acted stuck with me. There was also Ten, he said something very rude about Aspen at the beginning and even though we saw later on that he wasn't a bad guy but I just couldn't help but remember what he said. Then there was the chemistry between Noel & Aspen, which honestly, I didn't see. Maybe it was just me but yea, I just couldn't see the connection. I think my favorite part was that scene with Reese, Mason and and that didn't even involve any of the main characters directly. All in all, I didn't hate the book but I can't say that I loved it either.
September 15, 2016
5 STARS
Gosh. I fell so much in love with this book, I would like to propose to it!
I have only read the first and the fifth books in this series and (not a shocker) loved it both. I cannot even count how many times I've reread those two, but I hold back reading this one. What a major, major mistake. Why haven't I read this sooner?!
Linda Kage works magic in every story she makes and you can't help but be under her spell.
Full review to come (hopefully).
Gosh. I fell so much in love with this book, I would like to propose to it!
I have only read the first and the fifth books in this series and (not a shocker) loved it both. I cannot even count how many times I've reread those two, but I hold back reading this one. What a major, major mistake. Why haven't I read this sooner?!
Linda Kage works magic in every story she makes and you can't help but be under her spell.
Full review to come (hopefully).
April 30, 2015
I have a quote for Dr. Kavanagh's board of quotes:
"Stupid is as stupid does." ~ Forrest Gump
I will never understand why folks who are involved in "forbidden" relationships fail to use discretion. This novel is incredibly unrealistic on so many levels. The writing is mediocre, at best, & the character development is quite poor.
*1.5/5 stars*
I will never understand why folks who are involved in "forbidden" relationships fail to use discretion. This novel is incredibly unrealistic on so many levels. The writing is mediocre, at best, & the character development is quite poor.
*1.5/5 stars*
Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,064 reviews