3.5 stars.

The second novel in Laura Moore's Silver Creek series, Once Tasted is a sweet yet wildly sensual romance between neighbors Reid Knowles and Mia Bodell. Although these two have been interested in one another for several years, after a humiliating high school incident, Mia has maintained a frosty distance from Reid. Unbeknownst to Mia, Reid has been attracted to her as well but it is not until a business arrangement forces them to spend time together that the sparks between them burst into flame.

Mia is dedicated to her uncle's winery and she'll do anything, including spend time with Reid, if is beneficial to the business. She is at first shy and content to blend into the background, but once she decides she deserves more than she has been settling for, she makes small but significant changes to her life. Mia begins to build confidence in herself personally and professionally, but when her childhood nemesis and incredibly sleazy cousin Jay returns, her deep-seated insecurities cloud her judgment about her confusing relationship with Reid.

Reid is laid back and self-assured but he is not arrogant or cocky. He is sexy, charming and extremely popular with the ladies, but he has never been in a serious relationship. Reid is very happy with his role in the family's ranch but he has been feeling a little restless lately. When he learns about the new partnership with the winery, he might be reluctant to work with Mia, but he is looking forward to the challenges of his new position.

There is plenty of chemistry and sexual tension between Reid and Mia. Their hostility slowly subsides as they brainstorm ideas and their attraction is always simmering in the background. The shift in their relationship is gradual but neither is willing to clearly define exactly what their status is. This lack of communication leads to misunderstandings and after Mia's self-doubts resurface, their hurt feelings and anger endanger their fragile relationship.

There is ample conflict for Mia and Reid to overcome both individually and as a couple. Mia really blossoms when she takes on more responsibility at the winery and this new self-confidence spills over into her relationship with Reid. Reid is more than a pretty face and despite his self-confidence, he too has issues that raise a few self-doubts which lead to an overly cautious approach to their relationship.

While I enjoyed many aspects of Once Tasted, it is a little slow-moving. The wine-making part of the storyline is well researched but there are times when this information overshadows the rest of the story. The conflict with Jay is easy to predict but fortunately, it is wrapped up fairly quickly.

Once Tasted is an enjoyable addition to Laura Moore's delightful Silver Creek series. The characters are multi-faceted and three-dimensional with realistic problems to overcome. The romance between Mia and Reid is passionate and deliciously steamy. Overall, it is a very heartwarming story that leaves fans eager for the next installment.
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I couldn't wait to read Once Tasted after reading Once Tempted and was really excited that this book was about Reid Knowles. Reid was just such an interesting character (okay, and hot). Reid and Mia together were so good, and I love that they had a history.

Mia is so easy to like, she's so down to earth and friendly. She's an orphan and went to live with her uncle, where she was bullied by her cousin. She's spent her adult life taking care of her uncle and trying to make their vineyard thrive. Mia is good at taking care of the vineyard and she loves it, she's just never had to do it alone until now so her confidence is lacking. She had a huge crush on Reid in high school and he really hurt her then, so she's not his biggest fan when they are thrown together.

Reid Knowles is a sexy cowboy with a reputation, and he is happy with his bachelor status. When he has to start working with Mia he really doesn't want to do it, but he quickly comes around. His family owns the Silver Creek Ranch and I love that place, I am totally a sucker for series that are all set in/around the same town or place.

Reid and Mia are great together, and I loved watching the fireworks between them. The story was really good, I actually liked this one more than the first (which I really liked too, by the way). I love seeing the ranch grow. We also get to see Ward and Tess from book one. Although this is the second in the series you wouldn't have any trouble picking up here, but I'm sure you'd like the first one as well! Overall, great read!

Review originally posted on Book Liaison

***Review copy provided by the publisher via Edelweiss in exchange for my honest review*** ( )

An incredible fresh story of finding love when it's least expected. Mia is a shy reserved soul working hard to get the family's vineyard producing the best wine they can. Reid is the outgoing, confident ranchers son who is perfectly content with his bachelor lifestyle. When circumstances bring these two together they must get past old hurts and regrets to move forward.

This book is well written, has a wonderful group of characters, and the story flows along at a great pace. It is definitely one I would recommend to everyone. Very enjoyable read. ( )

This is my second book by Laura Moore and I am really looking forward to reading more. Her writing is tight, fun, sexy and informative.

I did have some issues with the characters in this one though. I like strong female heroines. Mia certainly did not fall into this category. She let everyone walk all over her from the Uncle she loved to the cousin she hated. I finished the book not knowing what ever attracted Reid to her in the first place.

My other issue with the story is one I'm having with many romances these days. The story leads to a climax, horrible things happen and then it's all resolved in the last 2 1/2 pages. I really wish authors would give the 'story book' ending a little more detail. ( )

I loved this book. I usually read paranormal romance and erotica books but this is book de going on my self of have to read again. Great plot and story line. Def page turner. Thank u so much for the book have to get more books by Laura Moore. ( )