The Delight

Getting to know the only female child in the branch of the Lund family was exciting and fun. A strong female who has worked hard to get where she is at her families company. The hero is a bad boy and so attractive it drew me in to find out if he was more than a pretty face.
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The Lund family is a big and tightly bound family living in Minnesota. Three brothers make up the patriarchal part of the family, but we are sticking to the offspring of one brother for the first of this series. The first story, What You Need, is the story of Brady, the eldest son finding love with Lennox. Next up was Walker, the black sheep (or so he thinks) of the family finding love with Trinity in Just What I Needed. Now we have the next Lund, Annika, the only female offspring in this branch and the well protected sister, that really can handle herself.

Annika Lund is known as the "Iron Princess" by her family and friends. She has worked hard to earn her position in the company when most think she got it because of her name. PR is the game and when her mother makes a deal with the top sporting agent to help Annika's younger brother, Jensen, Annika has to play the game. Translating for Axl who only speaks Swedish is supposed to be a temporary gig, but he offends her so much, she lets him have it and the media goes wild. Now she is his girlfriend for PR purposes only, but the lull of Axl's personality makes it more than a publicity stunt.

Axl for his part is holding a few secrets....like he speaks several languages and English is definitely one of them. A bad experience with the Chicago Hockey team has left him in a bad public image situation that morphed into everyone thinking he doesn't know the language. He has continued to allow that to happen for multiple reasons, but now he needs to come clean with everyone and it's going to cause problems.

His image is a playboy, but in reality he is anything but that. While he doesn't feel he can have a committed relationship, he takes the time to learn who Annika is and to love her for all her perfections and faults. Axl also collects people around him. Everyone in his apartment complex has an open door policy and we get to know some amazing people.

There is true depth to Axl that some heroes never find. While most think he is just a dumb jock, he is actually well read, has an engineering degree and knows enough languages to put me to shame. He's strong, doesn't back down from confrontation, but is also the gentle giant who adores Annika at various points in the story.

The family. Oh sweet baby Jesus. The matriarch is Swedish and messes up all the cliches. She made the deal with the agent for her son, but in a way I felt she sacrificed her daughter. I thought it would come back around that it was her plan to get them together, but I don't think it was in the end. Two out of three brothers take a swing at Axl, well, because this is their only sister to protect. We see the family come in and out of the story and I love getting to see how the relationships from the first two books are continuing to grow.

Axl and Annika have a lot to over come as both are being pushed and pulled in different directions without their permission or control. The dynamic to fall in love despite this showed just how strong they were and how strong their love was going to turn out to be. There were lots of road bumps, but I loved meeting these two characters and being a part of their story even for a little while. Yes, I know they aren't real people, just leave me in my lovely world of Lunds.

The Need You series by Lorelei James is the series that gets better and better with each book. All You Need is Book 3 and can be read as a standalone. If you’re at all like me, I like to start at the beginning. You can’t go wrong with this series. I’m in complete love with the Lund family and their love matches!

I was drawn in on page one and did not want to put it down! All You Need is told in alternating POVs which has become one of my favorite ways to read a book. There is something about being directly inside the head of the hero and heroine. I enjoy how much more personal these kinds of stories are to me.

Annika Lund is an intelligent, hardworking, sexy, and sassy businesswoman. The press calls her the “Iron Princess” and she’s anything but ice cold. She is hilarious! Her sense of humor is fantastic. How she deals with life is relatable.

Axl “The Hammer” Hammerquist is a smart, sexy, strong, Swedish hockey player. Did I mention HOT? Axl is a force to be reckoned with on and off the ice…if anyone would take the time to get to know him. He is so much more than what meets the eye.

The Lund family is a tight knit, loving family. Like real people, they have real problems. I love how Miss James makes us feel as though we could be in the story ourselves. Characters dealing with real-life issues in very real ways. Your heart cannot help but be touched.

I highly recommend All You Need. I enjoyed Miss James fresh take on this romance trope. There are some twists I didn’t see coming with an ending fit for a princess!

The enemies to lovers trope is one that I adore because the snarky back and forth between the hero and heroine as well as their internal musings of frustration and annoyance mixed with undeniable chemistry between the two make for one hell of a reading experience, and in Lorelei James’ newest release, All You Need, the overwhelming feelings of hate and lust that Annika Lund and Axl Hammerquist have for one another makes it a must-read story.

There’s never a dull moment with the way Annika and Axl torture one another, not only with their snide nicknames for each other, but also with their inability to keep things just about positive PR for Axl’s hockey career, because regardless of how much they want to loathe one another, there’s no denying that the “Iron Princess” and the “Hammer” intrigue one another and wouldn’t mind working out the frustrations of their situation as well as their complicated feelings between the sheets.

The “girlfriend angle” that Axl’s agent wants Annika and Axl to take in order to clean up Axl’s image and get the focus on his hockey abilities rather than his off ice antics puts Annika and Axl in a daunting position because even if Axl is not Annika’s usual type and the attraction she feels towards him is unwanted, they are now coconspirators in a very public way, and if the double life they’re leading gets exposed in any way but a positive one, there’s more than just Axl’s hockey career at risk, which means Annika needs to wield her PR Superpowers while placing her trust in a man who doesn’t have a very good track record, even if there’s more misperceptions of Axl than there is truth to his manwhoring ways.

Lorelei James does a fantastic job of illustrating both Annika and Axl’s multifaceted personalities. There is so much more to them than what they allow others to see, and because readers are privy to every one of their thoughts and characteristics, it’s easy to see why these two are actually quite perfect for each other. Annika and Axl push each other to do and be better, and while the PR couple and the real couple seem to be separate entities, one allows Annika and Axl to truly get to know one another while the other is just between the two of them, making it all the more precious when the media as well as Axl’s agent want very different things than what the two want themselves.

There’s never a dull moment when Annika and Axl are together, and while they may drive one another crazy just as much as they make each other better, it’s clear that their feelings are real and so far beyond what they would have thought possible when Annika was hired to revamp Axl’s image to help his career. And being a part of their journey, witnessing all the highs and lows that they experience, makes All You Need one heck of a wild, steamy, and intriguing journey.

A complimentary copy was provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

4.5 Poison Apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)

My Review:

Ooh, I loved this book so much. This has definitely ranked up there with my favorites by Lorelei James. I loved getting to read Annika and Axl's somewhat convoluted story. (Note...the convoluted part has nothing to do with the writing...they just have a complex set-up because of their entire arrangement...at first, it's all about PR and doing favors for various members of the Lund family, but then things evolve...as they are prone to do in romance.)

Annika is in charge of PR for Lund Industries. She knows the power of PR, so it's somewhat ironic that she ends up in this situation...faking a relationship for the publicity of it, but that's a testament to how powerful the bond is between the Lund family. They will literally do almost anything to help one of their family members out, and this "job" will help out a couple of different situations for the Lunds. But it's really something that her mother got her into. 

Axl has gotten himself into somewhat of a mess. He's a pro NHL d-man, and he's spent his career putting on a false front of not really caring about anything. That's now caught up with him and his agent is putting the screws to him to fix his reputation. That's where Annika comes in. She's rich, well-known, knows the power of the press, and is a reputable ice-queen that won't put up with much in the way of shenanigans. What the agent didn't count on though was the very real, very explosive chemistry between the two. 

I loved the way that the relationship developed between the two. Neither one of them trusts easily, and they have a very antagonistic relationship because of that. But they slowly come to respect the other and realize just what the other stands for and offers. This is truly a relationship that develops because of true depth in personality rather than sex...although that is really very hot between them, too.

Everything about this story worked for me. I loved all the side stories that also played out...the guys in Axl's condo complex. The story about Jensen, Annika's brother....I can't wait to delve deeper with his upcoming book. The story was seriously hot and sexy, but more than that...it made me smile. The two would have a serious HOT scene and then there'd be a quip at the end that would simply make me giggle. I loved that so much. 

Flat out, I loved this book. I honestly wished I had the time right now to pick it back up and reread it all again...a true testament of an amazing read. I definitely recommend it!

I was on a Russian hockey player kick (I am looking at you Shelley Laurenston!!) and this really hit the spot. The hero Axle, was a complete ass at first and I don't think his excuses actually excuse his behavior. That being said once they started their fake relationship he is really sweet and I warmed up to him. Annika, loved her, I do wish that she told the Axel's manager to fuck off and said more choice words to her mother, but I probably wouldn't yell at my mother either so I shouldn't criticize. The ending was almost too sweet for my tastes but it made for a nice valentines treat! I am definitely going to recommend this to friends and check out the other books in the series (okay yes I read this one first but everything still made sense so no hurt no foul).

Okay, I think this has been my favorite in the series so far, and I really liked the other two. I don't even know if there was a specific thing I liked more, just all the things I've liked about the series were really amplified. It was just so enjoyable.

There were a bunch of scenes that I've bookmarked and go back and read when I'm in a 5-minute cab ride or otherwise don't want to dive into a plot I'm going through for the first time. And they're not even hot scenes, just fun scenes! Some of the banter between Annika and Axl is so great that I'd forget that no matter what, one of the two isn't speaking their first language.

The whole "we're constantly acknowledging this but not all-out acting on it" that they did at the beginning was fun, kind of a lot of "oh, they just went there" moments. :) 

Axl really fascinated me too. Learning about his past and his kind of schemes, you can see how smart but subtle he is about it. Paired with Annika's "no holds barred" attitude that gets her the Ice Princess reputation (I can relate, girl 💁🏻) has me hoping to read more about them as a couple.

Ms. James is on my auto buy list.  I love her larger than life characters, her clever dialog and her way of spinning a tale that enmeshes her readers into the lives and loves that unfold from her clever pen.  The first meeting between Annika Lund and Ax-hell Hammerquist was not promising at all and the second was even worse but .............
With Axl's public ratings at an all time low, his agent approaches Lund Family PR guru Annika Lund for help. Holding her brother's sport's career hostage he blackmails her into a pretend relationship with Axl to help take the public attention from his womanizing ways and focus him on a winning career with the local hockey team. So begins a fake public romance between the two of them that  quickly spirals out of control as they spend time together and give the red hot chemistry between them free rein.
As it turns out Axl's true persona is not quite the womanizing front he puts out for the public and a genuine relationship is in the making between the two of them.  I really liked how patient Annika is with Axl's lack of English as she helps him navigate situations where he needs to use English. Of course as it turns out Axl speaks impeccable English and when he comes clean to the press and his team he's asked to pay a price that's going to give a whole new jolt to his relationship with Annika.
Readers really get to see and like the real Axl beneath his bad boy persona.  He's a great listener and his encouragement to help Annika find herself and go after her goals is very heart warming. Annika decides to use his black mailing agent to help her set up a meeting with a top notch very secretive group to promote Lund family products in return for becoming Axl's public girlfriend.  Unfortunately this charade comes to a screeching halt when photographs of Axl smooching with a brown haired babe at a party gone wild are released to the press.  The fickle public who was hard on him earlier now seems to be anti Annika and all encouragement of Axl creating an all time high for his public ratings.
Before Annika can come clean and admit that she's the brown haired babe in disguise, Axl's agent announces that their romance is over. Unfortunately now the two of them are truly in love but because the group that Annika is pursuing likes a low profile she and Axl are forced to hide their now true romance from the world.  Of course poor Axl gets the brunt of it since Annika's brothers are determined to show him the error of his ways and punch him out for hurting their sister.   The author adds in some interesting twists and family dynamics to keep the tale interesting.
This is a delightful new series and I just love the dynamics with Annika's mother and her butchering of the English language phrases that are sprinkled through the books giving readers some fun moments.  The Lund family is delightful and we get to poke behind the scenes and learn more about the Lund family skeletons. I can't wait to see how some of these threads work themselves out in future books.

ALL YOU NEED by Lorelei James is the third book in the contemporary romance series Need You featuring the Lund family and takes place in the Twin Cities. Annika Lund, a PR agent for her family company, has her hands full when she finds herself faking a relationship with Swedish hockey player Axl Hammerquist. James shares a romance filled with snark, wicked banter, tender moments and heart. Once again she held me captive, and I devoured ALL YOU NEED in one evening.

Annika finds herself unwillingly helping with the PR for Axl. He has a reputation for public sex and lots of ladies. I would be the first to admit I thought Axl was an arse during our initial encounters even if I laughed at his over the top displays. Poor Annika. She has her mother to thank for this mess. Axl doesn't heed her advice and soon finds herself faking a relationship with him when she unintentionally finds herself on Youtube. I adore the fake relationship troupe and James had me hooked.

I was unsure of Axl and couldn't get a handle on this obnoxious player. Thankfully, as James peeled back Axl's layers and exposed the man beneath I quickly found myself not only swooning but genuinely liking the guy.

Lorelei James has an incredible talent for bringing her characters to life while creating a fast-paced believable story with depth.  She ultimately ends up melting my heart nd I have a hard time deciding which book and characters are my favorite.

Annika is a powerhouse in her profession and likes to take control. And while Axl filled her mind with lustful thoughts, he isn't the typical suit she usually dates. I loved the vulnerable sides of Annika that James exposed as well as her stubborn sides. It was wonderful seeing this couple's relationship develop as James took them from annoyed to respect. Their dates and growing friendship were filled with laughter, wicked banter and shock as things moved to something more.

I loved the clever plot twist James gave us as well as time with other members of the Lund family. Axl's motley crew of misfit friends added depth and humor as well as sharing another side of Axl. I worried about how all would play out and absolutely loved how James brought it all together. Fans of Cecy Robson, Jill Shalvis, Mandy Baxter and Jessica Lemmon will enjoy the Need You series.

Axl Hammerquist is a professional hockey player used to the parties and the women like there’s no tomorrow. Bu the truth is, if he wants to follow his dreams he will have to quit that life and obey to his new sexy and funny PR agent, Annika Lund. 

“I had to fight a smile. I sort of hated that she amused the hell out of me.”

Annika Lund is a PR agent and is intended to get to the top of her family’s company but her future isn’t looking so bright when her new client doesn’t care about her hard work. Better yet, her plans for her future go straight out of the window when Axl’s agent proposes they pretend to be in a serious relationship in order to save Axl’s image!

 “Hockey players are the worst when it comes to screwing around”

God, this was funny! I had such a lovely time reading this book! Annika is so funny and smart; I laughed so many times with their conversations half serious half joking. Lorelei’s writing style is just incredible! The way she explained some things about hockey without making it boring is awesome, I actually learned something about sports with this book. 

“For the first time… ever I wasn’t in any hurry. I wanted to savor her reaction to my every touch. To my every kiss. For the first time… ever I wanted to focus on giving pleasure rather that receiving it.”

It just saddens me that we couldn’t see them together outside of the bedroom more. I get that they’re in a secret relationship but still, a little more of coupley moments wouldn’t have hurt. I also couldn’t feel the intensity of their love! They’re utterly sweet with each other but I didn’t find the kind of passion the swallows you up. 
Altogether it really is a incredible book that I think it lacks depth. 

Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC.

I didn’t even know how much I had a hankering a sports romance book before I cracked this one open and proceeded to devour it with gusto. All You Need hit all the sweet spots that my heart was craving – surly hot hockey player, smart, sassy heroine, a whole lot of playful flirty banter, and just a pinch of forbidden romance. It was delicious.

There’s also a fair amount of fire here. The chemistry between Annika and Axl is damn near explosive. This made them extremely fun to read – because their personalities are as fiery as the physical connection between them – but also crazy sexy. They’re the whole package, really and I absolutely loved it – from the way the two traded sharp tipped barbs to the way they exchanged tender, breathtaking caresses. I couldn’t get enough and now that it’s over, I could not feel more satisfied.

This series just keeps getting better and better. The Lund family dynamic is fascinating and authentic. Each book introduces new nuances that keep me on the edge of my seat waiting to learn more. Each character is written in such a way that it’s impossible not to love them – flaws and all (and they are flawed which is what makes them so fascinating, I think). The storytelling is skillful and enthralling and I found myself wanting to tear through this book as quickly as possible, and slow down and savor all the swoons and smiles for as long as I could.

I literally cannot wait for more. There are so many other characters I’m dying to learn more about and so many stories that still need to be told. This is technically the third book in a series – but it can be read as a standalone. If you want my advice? Read them all. But definitely don’t miss this one.

Trouble with a language barrier (so it seems) and two strong-willed personalities.  James does these characters credit when she lets them fight it out and then fight together to maintain a strong, wonderful relationship!

Annika Lund is the PR agent who has been tasked with revamping the reputation of Axl, a Swedish hockey player that has been making a reputation for himself, great hockey player and racking up the sexual encounters.  So when Axl’s agent insists that Annika date Axl to save his image, she give a definite NO, only problem is Annika really is drawn to the impossible, cocky, head strong man and as she helps him out she finds that he really isn’t the man everyone is making him out to be, in more ways than she evens begins to know.

The love hate banter that volleys between these two is funny.  The chemistry and sparks that ignite when they are in a room together, but each tries to deny and the shenanigans they get into throughout the story are funny and enlightening to watch.  Bringing in the family dynamic is just as funny, the Lund family is full of surprises and action.

Another great hit Ms. James turned out in the Need you series and can’t wait to see what she has planned for the rest of the Lund’s as I hope she plans to keep going with this series.

Annika Lund has an Ice Queen reputation because she works hard for her family's company, always doing what is best for the family, even if her personal life takes a back seat. But until she started spending time with Axl, she hadn't been with a man who was worth the distraction. Now she's found a guy who matches her word for word and makes her toes curl in the process. If only she could share it with others. 

Axl Hammerquist is much more than the handsome, rough, playboy hockey player he portrays, but why let anyone see the real man when they don't expect anything more from him? However, when his agent insists on a public image makeover, it is his attraction to and respect for Annika that gets him to change his mind. So when his agent decides it's time to publicly end Axl's PR relationship with Annika, he realizes he's in way more than he ever planned. 

All You Need is a wonderful, feel-good romance that hits all the right notes for me. Axl and Annika are equals from the start, and while there is some minor jockeying for position, their relationship isn't a power play struggle for dominance. I admire that both have serious careers and neither has to compromise his/her work ethic or ambitions, rather, both support the other along the journey. 

But their story is far from all work and no play! The couple starts off on the wrong foot, as Axl drives to challenge Annika's PR abilities, causing trouble just to see how she'll react. He recognizes her intellect and admires her strength, and he has fun creating situations for her just so he can watch her work. Their silly name calling and hockey puns give rise to entertaining conversations. Equally enjoyable is their mutual attraction which creates wonderful sexual tension. 

While there are several things that worked for me in the title, it's the fact that once Annika and Axl became a couple, they stayed a couple, that made their story shine. Although these two alphas butted heads at the start, they were upfront not only about their issues with the other, but their mutual attraction as well. Yes, they did try to fight the sex appeal, creating wonderful sexual tension and moments of witty banter, but they both recognized right away that they weren't going to be able to keep this PR relationship strictly platonic. Both characters are honest and upfront about their mixed emotions, and both are such genuinely good people beneath the surface that they work well together. And due to the circumstances that drove them together, they become an "us versus them" team, sticking together despite or rather because of what others say to them. The more time the pair spent together, the closer they grew. 

By no means is their journey a smooth road to happily ever after. They come across road blocks and difficulties, issues that in other titles have caused breakups and mayhem. But it's how the couple handles the bumps that makes their story so amazing. Rather than allowing external factors best them, they were patient, communicated openly, and worked through the problems. 

All You Need is a wonderful romance about two equals who go from coconspirators to friends to lovers. I admire that both Axl and Annika possess honorable fortitude and genuine hearts, sharing of themselves with one another. Their journey is an enjoyable ride, and I look forward to discovering what is next for the Lund Family.

My Rating:  A, Loved It

4.5 stars

All You Need by Lorelei James is a marvelous enemies to lovers romance.  Although this newest release is the third installment in the fantastic Need You series, it can be read as a standalone (but I HIGHLY recommend the entire series).

Annika Lund  is loyal to her family which is why she grudgingly agrees to help hockey bad boy Axl “the Hammer” Hammerquist salvage his image.  Annika positively loathes Axl whose list of transgressions is looonnng, so she is rather shocked to realize she is attracted to the hockey hottie.  When Axl’s agent suggests the two pretend to be in a relationship, neither is thrilled with the proposal but they both realize the plan has merit.  What neither Axl nor Annika expect is for their contentious fake relationship to turn into a real romance.  What will happen to their budding romance once Axl no longer needs Annika to save his reputation?

Annika is tough as nails but she loves her family so she will do anything to help them.  Axl is nothing like the men she usually dates and she absolutely despises him right from their first introduction.  Hiding her unexpected attraction behind scathing comments and a slew of hilarious nicknames, Annika is taken off guard once she gets to know the man behind the hockey mask and wild reputation.

Axl is an incredibly talented hockey player but his out of control antics are a PR nightmare for his new team.  No one can bring themselves to look past the bad publicity swirling around him so his agent knows he has to clean up his client’s image sooner rather than later. Axl has his reasons for his over the top behavior, but now that he is with a team that he genuinely likes, he is ready to do whatever it takes to smooth his transition with his new teammates. As he spends time with Annika, he realizes he has misjudged her but will Axl be able convince her he is not as out of control as she believes?

Annika and Axl do not make any effort to hide their disdain for each other when they first meet.  Annika is particularly withering during their initial encounters but Axl’s exploits are so incredibly outrageous, he deserves her inventive nicknames and derisive comments. However, once the fake relationship plan goes into action, Annika and Axl finally take the time to get to know one another.  After the various misconceptions about each other are cleared up, will Annika and Axl give in to their simmering passion?  What will happen to their fledgling relationship in the midst of well meaning interference from family and friends?

All You Need is a sizzling hot romance with a fabulous cast of well-developed characters and dialogue that is brimming with humor.  The relationship between Annika and Axl is an absolute joy to watch unfold as their dislike for one another gradually gives way to mutual respect and eventually, love.  Old and new fans will fall in love with this latest addition to the Need You series and the intriguing glimpses of Jensen Lund will leave readers eagerly awaiting Lorelei James’ next release, When I Need You.

All you Need is the 3rs story in this series, and can be read as a standalone!

This was such a fantastic  book! Annika & Axle's story was fun, and sexy. It had me wanting for more when it finished. The Lund family & their friends are full of unforgettably characters its another great read from Lorelei James.


All You Need by Lorelei James is book 3 in the Need You series but can be read as a standalone contemporary sports romance.

This is the first story of Loreleis that I have read and I loved every minute of it. So much so, that it was hard for me to put this book down and didn't want it to end.

I loved that Annika and Axl were enemies to lovers. Their interaction was fantastic from their initial meeting and right the way through. They were so good together and each of the supporting characters were awesome as well

I'm a huge fan of interlocking series, that can be read as standalones, that have great characters sharing the same world and each have their own HEA and All You Need ticked all those boxes. It was clever, witty, very funny, sweet, sexy and sassy. I especially loved all the hockey and sport puns.

I'd happily recommend this book to avid sports romance readers and I am looking forward to reading much more in this amazing series

3- 3.5 Stars

I love the series and happy to see Annika getting her own story.  I'm sad to say I didn't love it.  

The pair had some series heat in the beginning of the book but I was getting tired of the games that they played.   They didn't officially become a couple until 3/4 of the way through the book and even then they kept their relationship secret.  
The ending was adorable and I was happy these two finally get their HE A

I was well into this book before I could like Axl.  What a royal jerk.  Or so he appeared.  I actually wondered how these two could ever get together but of course all was not as it appeared.  Ax-hole wasn’t really the right name for the sexy hunk.  Once we get to see the real Axl he’s pretty easy to love.  He’s so sweet and caring with Annika and it’s no surprise when their fake relationship turns into much more.

I wondered about Annika’s reasons for keeping their romance secret until she could pitch her company to a potential client.  It seemed a bit contrived.  The rest of the story was solid enough though that it wasn’t distracting.

I’m getting tired of the couples so many novels have where one partner is slow to realizing there is something serious developing.  These two never did that and I like the story more because of it.

James is very talented at creating great characters and writing engaging dialog and All You Need is another awesome read from one of my favorite writers.  I can’t wait for the next book

reviewed by Jem

I have only recently started to read Lorelei James's books and have enjoyed each one. However, I loved "All You Need." The chemistry between the characters was electric!  James uses a deft hand to  write engaging characters with humor and fleshed-out personalities. She knows the right amount of emotion to lend legitimacy to her characters and her storylines, yet does not stray into melodrama or excessive sentimentality. Fun, funny, and a fast read! Thoroughly enjoyable!

I did not request this book. I was only looking at the details and then it was on my shelf