There are some authors that just have the gift of writing. From the first time they pick up a pen and craft a story, they get it. Alice Clayton has been that type of writer. I was pleased to be able to review her first book, Wallbanger, the one that started this Cocktail series of books. Also I have been pleased to read her Redhead books as well. Each book I have read by Alice Clayton, I have been entertained in more ways than one. Just released is the 3rd book in the Cocktail series and I was thrilled to be sent a copy for review.

Screwdrivered (The Cocktail Series) by Alice Clayton
Series: The Cocktail Series
Publisher: Gallery Books
Publication Date: September 2, 2014

Synopsis: Readers back for a third round of the bestselling Cocktail series will enjoy a madcap romantic comedy about bodice ripping and chest heaving, fiery passion and love everlasting. Plus a dash of paperwork filing and horseshi—wait, what?

By day, Viv Franklin is a tough-as-nails software engineer who designs programs and loves hospital corners. By night, Vivian’s a secret romance-novel junkie who longs for a knight in shining armor, or a cowboy on a wild stallion, or a strapping firefighter to sweep her off her feet. And she gets to wear the bodice—don’t forget the bodice.

When a phone call brings news that she’s inherited a beautiful old home in Mendocino, California from a long-forgotten aunt, she moves her entire life across the country to embark on what she sees as a great, romance-novel-worthy adventure. But romance novels always have a twist, don’t they?

There’s a cowboy, one that ignites her loins. Because Cowboy Hank is totally loin-ignition worthy. But there’s also a librarian, Clark Barrow. And he calls her Vivian. Can tweed jackets and elbow patches compete with chaps and spurs? You bet your sweet cow pie.

In Screwdrivered, Alice Clayton pits Superman against Clark in a hilarious and hot battle that delights a swooning Viv/Vivian. Also within this book, an answer to the question of the ages: Why ride a cowboy when you can ride a librarian?

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My Thoughts: Alice Clayton has a gift that I love. She is able to craft and write stories about women that you wish you could become. Strong women looking for a strong man to be by her side. No simpering, whiny women full of drama here. Just ladies that know what they want, are totally unique and you can relate to. Then Ms. Clayton adds in fun and humor making her stories a treat to the senses! This story is laugh out loud funny through out the book and keeps you on your toes at every page turn.

You never know what to expect from this author. Her last few books were loaded with romance and hot steamy parts. This book is very similar except that the build up is all mental and you are aching for our heroine, Viv, to finally get her man! But Viv has some changing to do and needs her eyes opened a little, while we are in the front row watching and waiting. One of the things I love is that the author does not load her books with angst and drama. Each of the characters has things to deal with but you do not have to go through pages of brainless junk for them to get there. The book is lighthearted and humorous all the way through which makes it a joy to read.

The Cocktail series is a fun grouping of books that are loaded with innuendo and fun! In Screwdrivered, you are reunited with several of the cast of characters from Wallbanger, a great group of friends, but it is a stand alone book, which I appreciate. This book was a pleasure to read from beginning to end and I am eagerly anticipating the 4th book in the cocktail series too! Ms. Clayton is a class act and is talented at weaving fun, articulate stories you enjoy reading. There is more to a great romance besides pure s.e.x. and this author knows how to craft a fabulous read.

Disclaimer: Chris has personally reviewed the product listed above. She has not received any monetary compensation for her review but did receive a free product to try out so she could evaluate and use it for her review. Her thoughts & opinions in this review are unbiased & honest and your opinions may differ.