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Pass the Hot Stuff

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The safe guy or the sexy guy?
The answer is always ... Pass the Hot Stuff

Blythe Townsend is a belle who is in desperate need of having her chimes rung. But the man she is dating would have to get his head out of his briefs - his legal briefs - long enough to notice.

She is a frustrated romantic obsessed with Turner Classic Movies. She lives in the French Quarter with her dog, Lady Marmalade, and is determined not to go sour on love even though she has dated every nutcase along the Mississippi Delta. Now, she is trying her best to make it work with her deadly dull boyfriend.

Blythe accepts him - boring business dinners and all. There's always steak, but never any sizzle. There's only so much a libido can take; and when she repeatedly spots a man around town she christens Tall, Dark and Eye Candy, she starts to feel what she's been missing.

So, what's stopping her from tasting something a little ... sweeter? She refuses to be hurt again, and this sexy New Orleans guy has all of the trappings to do just that. Blythe will have to find her inner big-shouldered broad to deal with the craziness in her life; and she has a group of hilarious, mouthy women helping her sort through the crazy.

Their story is a sultry dance to Delta blues and soulful jazz that drifts the reader into the romance of New Orleans. So, sit down at the kitchen table and pour yourself a drink - we're gonna pass the hot stuff.

356 pages, Paperback

First published August 22, 2012

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Dana Page

2 books11 followers

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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
Profile Image for Kelly Duplechin.
37 reviews
October 24, 2012
I won an advanced copy of this book. I was hopeful, but was prepared to not like it just because I didn't know very much about it. Almost immediately, I was drawn into the characters, partly because of the surroundings (it takes place in New Orleans), and partly because of the writing.
The star of the book is Blythe, who along with her loud-mouthed bff Tricia, tackles her issues with dating and how to know when to say when. She struggles with whether it's better to let Robert go to give him the chance to find someone who is 100% in it (and for her to have a better chance of finding long lost passion), or to stay in a stale relationship simply to avoid hurting the good (i.e. boring) guy. Magnifying her nagging suspicion that the relationship is missing something is the entrance of Blake, a piece of eye candy that she sees here and there, and then finally meets when he becomes a co-worker of her boyfriend's. This is problematic enough for Blythe, but she has to also deal with her father, who has made it his life's mission to let her know all the ways she doesn't measure up. He uses religion as a guise to be able to "help" his daughters, Blythe and Remy, and turn them from their sinful ways, which really amounts to telling them they're going to hell in a hand-basket just because they're 30'ish and not married. My one slight issue is that while I can definitely appreciate the fact that there are people out there like Jared (the dad), at times it almost came across like religion in general was the culprit, and not his misinterpretation or misuse of it. Also, at some times, the book took on almost high school qualities with a couple of the characters trying to play puppet master in the background. However, that being said, they were very fleeting moments, and overall I really enjoyed it. I would have liked to know a little bit more about Tricia's outcome at the end, as well. It is also noteworthy that I LOVE Jonah (he's Blake's partner in crime).

Dana Page has really put forth a valiant effort with her first book, and I really look forward to what she will come out with next.
1 review1 follower
February 10, 2013
After reading “Pass the Hot Stuff” I felt that I had actually lived in New Orleans for a while and really became part of these peoples’ lives.
I love an author that makes me feel so connected to the characters in the story. I liked that the women in this book were fiercely loyal and devoted to each other. The bond and affection between this group of good friends, sisters, mothers and grandmothers was heartwarming and a very big part of the enjoyment this story gave me. And they all made me laugh... a lot. No shrinking
violets in this bunch. These are fun, sexy women that keep the story moving at a fast pace with their humorous outlooks on life and earthy, spicy dialogue.
Throw in a titillating romance (that is having a heck of a time getting started) with an “oh so hot” guy and you’ve got yourself a good read. I’m pretty sure I fell just a little bit in love with the hot guy myself. Pass the Hot Stuff indeed!
This book offers a variety of goodies for the reader. Laughter, warmth, sexy romance, and characters that you want to be friends with.
When it was over I missed these people and wished I could have hung out with them just a little bit longer. And really, isn’t that the ultimate feeling to have when you come to the last page?

Profile Image for BestChickLit.com.
458 reviews245 followers
September 19, 2012
Pass the Hot stuff is a fun, fast-paced romance novel that will show you the importance of letting yourself find the love you deserve. Surrounded by strong, inspirational women such as her artistic mother Katie, her fun-loving friend Trisha and her adored Grandmother, Sweetie, who all want the very best for her, Blythe is struggling to let herself be loved without compromising on happiness. But when two new attorneys appear at the boyfriend’s office, Blythe’s head, heart and soul are given a good shake.

Pass the Hot stuff is Dana Page’s first novel but she has written it with such confidence and gusto, that it will leave you feeling warm and optimistic about love. Page has really captured the all-consuming sexual tension of a budding relationship and contrasts it perfectly with the stagnant claustrophobia of being stuck with the wrong man. The vibrancy of her New Orleans setting leaves you bright-eyed and ready for adventure.

Reviewed by Nikki Mason on behalf of BestChickLit.com
Profile Image for Stephanie.
578 reviews18 followers
August 20, 2015
Blythe Townsend is living life in New Orleans with her dog, Lady Marmalade, best friend, Tricia, and boring lawyer boyfriend, Robert. While Robert is dull and always consumed by work, he is responsible, and would never cheat on her like her previous boyfriend, so she stays with him, despite the lack of passion in their relationship. She’s okay with this fact… until she meets Tall, Dark and Eye Candy, otherwise known as Blake, the newest lawyer at Robert’s firm. He’s sexy, fun, and charming, the total opposite of Robert. Should she risk her heart and be with Blake, or take the safe route and stay with Robert? She’ll make her decision with her crazy best friend and quirky family offering their hilarious insight and advice.

This was a really fun romance and a total breath of fresh air. It was fun, light, and funny – exactly what I needed during this crazy time of year. I particularly enjoyed the setting of New Orleans. The descriptions were so vivid and real that I felt like I was there, despite never having even visited. I was so intrigued by the New Orleans setting that I even started looking up some information on it while reading! This book has definitely made me want to visit! I also really enjoyed the cast of characters – her funny best friend, Tricia, her fun loving mom and sister, her holier than thou father, and her hilarious new friend, Jonah, a lawyer at Robert’s firm. The characters were extremely well drawn out and loads of fun. All in all, this was a heck of a lot of fun to read, and I highly recommend it for fans of romance, chick lit, and fabulous settings! New Orleans… here I come!
Profile Image for Ricki Wilson.
Author 1 book163 followers
January 20, 2013
Occasionally a novel comes along that transcends its own story; Pass the Hot Stuff is one such novel. The most obvious elements of this novel are absorbingly crafted New Orleans and Memphis settings, a relatable conflict (a woman’s dilemma—the dull or the dazzling), engaging storytelling, impeccable pacing, and finely tuned editing, which should be enough. Pass the Hot Stuff delivers far more.

Dana Page’s writing conjures the essence of the writings of Fannie Flagg (Fried Green Tomatoes) and Rebecca Wells (Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood). It reminds us of the incredible strength and compassion of sisterhood; the rituals of our foremothers that see us through the day, and the counsel and comfort we find in those who know us yet love us despite our shortcomings.

Dana Page’s PASS THE HOT STUFF: sassy southern comfort that will feed your soul.

I look forward to Page’s next release!
Profile Image for Tracy.
124 reviews5 followers
August 7, 2018
I won an autographed copy of Pass the Hot Stuff. Thank you Goodreads and thank you Dana Page.

I really love, love, love this fast paced fun book! A nice blend of romance and humor. The characters were colorful and entertaining, story line was cute and fun, the author made me feel like I was part of the group. I was hooked from the beginning and couldn't put it down. Many times I found myself giggling out loud. I have always wanted to visit New Orleans and now I want to even more! The author managed to make New Orleans seem like a character in the book!
Profile Image for Kathleen.
1,410 reviews35 followers
December 17, 2012
Sometimes playing it safe isn't enough, every now and then you need to add a little hot stuff to spice up your life!

Blythe Townsend is in a safe relationship with her dull lawyer boyfriend, Robert. While she accepts the way he is, she is frustrated that there isn't enough sizzle in their relationship. When Blythe keeps seeing the same sexy man, Blake, everywhere she turns, she is surprised to find out that he is the co-worker of her boyfriend, and she begins to think that maybe there is more to life than just playing it safe, maybe sometimes you need to have a little bit of hot stuff too!

Pass The Hot Stuff is a sassy and humorous romance story that will keep you thoroughly entertained. Set in "The Big Easy" city of New Orleans, author Dana Page weaves a fun tale of one woman's attempt to try to figure out what she wants in her life and relationship. Filled with humor and quirkiness, the story is told in the third person narrative, that easily draws the reader into Blythe's crazy world. Blythe's journey to figure out what she wants has so many twists and turns, it keeps the reader in anticipation as they turn the pages.

With a quirky cast of characters who will keep you in stitches with their crazy antics; hilarious dialogues and interactions; a richly detailed description of New Orleans; and a storyline that features a love triangle and spicy romance; who could ask for anything more from this enjoyable debut novel? I loved the author's description of New Orleans, she transports the reader to this fabulous city and provides so many tantalizing sights, sounds and smells that it makes you want to visit this enchanting place right now!

Blythe surrounds herself with a strong set of women like her mom Katie, best friend Trisha, and grandmother Sweetie, who offer her hilarious advice, and teach her that there is more to life, and not to settle or compromise when it comes to her happiness. Then there is the men: dull boyfriend Robert, hottie Blake, and new friend Jonah, who keep the romantic drama full of twists and turns. And of course I would be remiss if I didn't mention Blythe's cute dog Lady Marmalade! The characters are so entertaining, they make this story one heck of a fun read!

Pass The Hot Stuff is so much more than your typical romance story. It is a feel good story that teaches the reader that there is so much more to life than what meets the eye, so add a little spice to your life, step out of your comfort zone, and never ever compromise on your happiness!

Kudos to author Dana Page on a wonderful debut novel!


Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book tour event hosted by Chick Lit Plus Blog Tours.

http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
Profile Image for Meredith Schorr.
Author 15 books882 followers
January 31, 2013
Having been hurt and betrayed by a past boyfriend, Blythe thinks the only way to protect her heart is by dating the "safe" guy. Enter Robert. Blythe thinks Robert is the type of guy who would never betray her like her ex. The only problem is that Robert is boring, always seems to have a problem with the way she dresses or wears her hair, is not very good in bed and is obsessed with kissing the managing partner of his law firm's ass. So it is not surprising that Blythe's head is turned by the sexy, charismatic and handsome man she keeps seeing everywhere she goes (Tall Dark and Eye Candy). She insists to her mother, sister and best friend that this other man is just "eye candy" but when he turns out to be a new lawyer in Robert's firm and the attraction appears to be mutual, will she choose the "safe" guy or the "sexy" guy?

This was definitely a fun read and I really enjoyed it. I was extremely impressed with the dialogue between the characters - it was consistently funny, fresh and original and never got stilted. At the same time, it was not so "scripted" that it felt unnatural. The characters were all very well-fleshed out, particularly the women. I found the relationship between Blythe and her cool BFF Tricia to be extremely believable and I loved the scenes with Blythe, Tricia, Blythe's sister Remy and Blythe's mother Kate. At times, I wished I was part of their family because they always seemed to have so much fun! I also enjoyed the camaraderie between the men. Definitely a fun, fun book.

My only issue is that the synopsis suggests that Blythe has to choose between the "safe" guy and the "sexy" guy. The entire time I was reading the book, I kept thinking to myself that Robert is not "safe". I would have found the choice to be much more believable if Robert had been written as sweet, loving and good to Blythe but just kind of boring with not the greatest sense of humor and maybe lacking "skills" (if you know what I mean). That is "safe." But Robert never accepted Blythe for who she was, she knew this and yet she continued to categorize him as "safe" and the nicest guy she ever met. How is somehow who ignores you at a party all night "nice" or "safe"? He sounds kind of like a douchebag to me! Also, Blythe was such a fun, energetic and strong personality that I found it hard to believe that she would have stood for some of his antics right from the get-go. Maybe if there was more background about Blythe's prior boyfriend Mark I would have found Blythe's relationship with Robert more believable.

That being said, I really did enjoy this book and I would read another book from this author.
Profile Image for Mar.
121 reviews25 followers
October 28, 2012
This was a good book that had everything from humor, deceit and romance. Blythe and Tricia are best friends that live in New Orleans. Blythe finds her self being attracted to a tall, dark and sexy man she bumps into on an airplane. Only one problem she's in a relationship with Robert a workaholic yet stable man. Tall, Dark, and Sexy turns her whole world around and she begins to have doubts about her current relationship. Question is what will she do? Go with her hot stuff of a man or stay with Robert Mr. Reliable.

I really enjoyed this book founded really entertaining and funny. The characters are great and you can see yourself being friends with them and the witty conversations and joking really had me laughing out loud. You can really relate to the women in the book and the relationship issues. The solidarity between the women is great since us girls do tend to stick together. The family bond adds a nice touch and it's heartfelt, it had me smiling and laughing. I have to say Mr Hot Stuff was great he had me with his smirk and twinkle in the eyes. The complete opposite of Robert, but this is good and made sense with what happens sometimes in relationships. This was saucy, sexy, funny and a great read. The author really takes you to the characters world and makes you which they were all your friends. I highly recommend the book it was fast paced and I would definitely like to continue reading about the characters.
Profile Image for Sara Palacios.
Author 1 book38 followers
January 3, 2013
Dana Page is on tour now with Pass the Hot Stuff and CLP Blog Tours.

Pass the Hot Stuff by Dana Page confronts the often asked question of “safe vs. sexy” in terms of men, and who should a woman choose. Blythe Townsend is in desperate need of something saucy. But, her current beau is so immersed in work that she can’t seen to get him to notice her, or the fact that she is in “need” of something. She is determined to make it work with her boyfriend because he is safe and reliable, even though she secretly covets something, or someone, with a little more pizazz. But, when she spots a sexy stranger around town, her eye and her libido start to wonder. Hesitant yet curious, she digs a little deeper and really has to question which is better. Safe and reliable? Or sexy and the chance at getting hurt?

I loved this book the moment I read the title and I was pretty sure that I knew what I was getting myself into, and luckily, I was right. This book is an absolute hoot and I think Dana is quite witty and hilarious as an author. This first time author brings the laughter, the tears and the real honesty that some girls face in a relationship and I can’t wait to see what Dana offers in her next novel. Overall, a very fun read with a charming cast of characters in a quaint setting in New Orleans. I loved this story from the get go and I think you will too.
Profile Image for Samantha March.
1,102 reviews313 followers
December 16, 2012
Dana Page is on tour with CLP Blog Tours and Pass the Hot Stuff. I thought the premise of the novel was great. Blythe Townsend tends to live life on the side of caution, and that holds true with her relationships. She is currently dating the “safe” guy but she thinks her relationship is fine. Yes they lack passion and his business dinners bore the pants off her, but she still thinks it’s better than playing with fire. Until…she keeps seeing a handsome man around, and he turns out to be a co-worker of her boyfriend’s. Blythe still doesn’t believe in giving up the safe guy, especially for someone who seems to be a player. But sometimes Blythe just wants the hot stuff…

I thought this was a fab debut from Dana Page. I loved the New Orleans setting, and thought Blythe was a strong heroine. I could definitely relate to her staying with the safe choice, because I have actually done that in a past relationship. I thought the cast of supporting characters were fantastic – and super funny!- and I really enjoyed this read. Sometimes I thought scenes could border on “telling” instead of “showing” in the writing, but I was able to easily get past that with the plot. There are also a lot of spicy scenes in there if you enjoy a bit of romance :) Great debut!
Profile Image for Alisha.
74 reviews23 followers
March 23, 2013
I really loved this book. I thought the Characters were very good and it drew me in from the beginning.
Profile Image for Lisa LoPiccolo.
28 reviews2 followers
February 12, 2013
Really enjoyed reading this book. Made me feel like I was in New Orleans visiting my girlfriends. Huge difference in the two men that Blythe is interested in. Story of contrast, with a southern charm.
Profile Image for Michelle.
19 reviews5 followers
October 29, 2012
I really liked the book. I did think that the main characater was quite the doormat. But, all the characters were well developed. I loved the best friend and the soon to be boyfriend. And it ended well with the jerk boyfriend getting his in the end.
Profile Image for Lindsay.
2,218 reviews507 followers
Shelved as 'kindle-i-own-to-read'
October 26, 2012
Amazon Freebie 10/25/2012
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews

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