Let's start with how unbelievably HAWT Duke is for being a not so typical hero. He's a terse, mountain of a man who isn't built or handsome in the traditional hero way (he's even hairy with a bit of a paunch), but there's just something about him. For all his gruffness, he's protective, hard working and dedicated to his friends and family. And he's got a mouth on him ... oh, man, does he know how to speak the dirty talk! Knows how to back it up too - whew, baby!

I think that some may find his high-handedness a little off-putting but it works for him and Samantha, which is all that matters. The insta-attraction might also be a no-no but I think that Bailey makes it work. While the timeline is very short, there's something really believable about their interactions, developing feelings and motivations.

The other thing that definitely works is how absolutely adorable Samantha is. She's quirky, funny and, while she's distrustful of relationships, she had a huge heart that yearns for family. Meeting big softy Duke, who would do just about anything for his sisters and who takes her under his wing, has her conflicted on getting involved.

While they get together under unusual circumstances, Duke and Samantha quickly find themselves in a situation that is not what they expected ... and maybe more they can handle. Funny, touching, sexy and sweet, Worked Up is a fantastically fun read that had me by the heart from the very first and never let go.

(Complimentary copy provided in exchange for an honest review)