Oh, the irony. There is nothing simple about this book. Simple Perfection was intense, emotional, and gripping. Of course, we still get to see the purOh, the irony. There is nothing simple about this book. Simple Perfection was intense, emotional, and gripping. Of course, we still get to see the pure heat and romance that Glines is known to deliver, but this book packs some pretty big punches that change the lives of not only Woods and Della, but the whole Rosemary Beach crew.
While Della is adjusting to the fact that Woods really does love and want her, she still struggles with the issues in her past. She fears that she will hold Woods back in the long term and feels like he deserves more. Better. Like in the first book, there were times that Della just plain frustrated me. She quickly jumps to conclusions and her insecurities can be tiresome. But, I also empathized with her. Her past has seriously wounded her. Despite the times I felt frustrated with Della, I still admire the fact that she isn't afraid to take a chance. Della learns some startling information about her past and it changes the course of her future. I will say that I felt that Della made some significant growth in this book. She finally realized that she can be worthy of Woods' love, but she also found that she could stand on her own two feet too.
Woods...if I thought I loved him before, I was wrong. I love him even more now! Woods is dealing with some pretty difficult issues at the club. He's making the business his own. In addition to the stress of losing his dad and dealing with his difficult mother, he still puts Della first. His need to care and love her takes priority. Woods truly is a stand up guy. There were moments when I worried he would push Della away, but he really needed her as much as she needed him. And there is something that happens between them, but all I'll say about it is that Woods never gives up on Della.
As I mentioned before, there were quite a few surprises in this book. The first half of the book moves along at a steady pace. The second half of the book nearly knocked the wind out of me. I won't go into detail and say what it was or ruin the impact for you as the reader, but just know that you will never see some of these things coming.
Overall, I loved Simple Perfection. Woods and Della's relationship definitely has a home in my heart. This couple has had to overcome some pretty difficult issues. But, they do and they do it together. In fact, their love for each other is the only thing that is simple in this book. Of course, it was great to see the rest of the Rosemary Beach clan. It made me miss Rush and Blaire and left me even more anxious for Grant's book!
If you're looking for a book that has some heat, passion, romance, and will twist your heart up a bit, this is the perfect pick for you! Just remember to put on your big girl panties, grab the tissues, and hang on tight!
Quotes: ~“I think you need to go back to Rosemary and take back your man if that’s what you want. I think that if you love Woods Kerrington then you need to be brave enough to put your heart on the line and go after him. You need to stop fearing things, Della. This is your last obstacle. Face it,” her voice cracked.-pg 85/ARC
~“You. Always, you. Just you,” he said lowering his mouth to my collarbone.-pg 91/ARC
~“That girl in the photo was scared. Of her past and her future. She was scared to love you. That’s not me. I’m not scared anymore. My past is what made me who I am. My future... as long as I get to spend it with you then I can’t wait to live it. I’m going to be okay Woods. I’m not going to... snap. I have a lot to tell you.”-pg 94/ARC
~ “You’re my all in, Della. I’ll throw it all away for you. I just want you. I’m all in baby. This life with you, I’m planning on us.”-pg 96/ARC
~I held her against me and realized that if there was no such thing as fate then someone had to be up there dealing out winning hands.-pg 135/ARC...more
I got this one for review a while back and I was anxious to read it. I've heard good things about it and I enjoy Bolton's YA Paranormal series, so I wI got this one for review a while back and I was anxious to read it. I've heard good things about it and I enjoy Bolton's YA Paranormal series, so I was hoping I'd like this one too. And I did. Quite a bit.
Gabby. I liked her. She's a strong character. She's dealt with a lot in life and I had sympathy for her. Especially, the more I got to know her and her story. She had to deal with the loss of her mother and her brother leaving all at the same time. I can imagine how confusing and hurtful that would be for a twelve year old girl. And how alone she must have felt. Now, she's an adult, but still copes with that loss. Of course there is more to Gabby's story, but I can't really say what. Which brings me to Jason.
I really, really, liked Jason. He's hot, a bit rugged and he's good with his hands. He builds motorcycles and this is how he and Gabby meet. There is instant attraction between the two and a spark that neither one can deny. But, they don't jump into a relationship. They take time to get to know each other. Once they got together, it was pretty darn great. They simply enjoy each other. They have similar interests and again, their chemistry is great.
Then we get to the good stuff. Once I learned more about Jason's past, I started to put the puzzle pieces together. While a bit heartbreaking to read, I enjoyed seeing how the story was going to play out. It was emotional and kept me burning through the pages to see how it was going to end. And, I was right in my assumption, but their story isn't over. I think they still have some things to work through.
Overall, I really liked it. It was a slow burn type of book for me, so I wasn't sure where I was going to end up in my rating. But the ending...kept me on my toes and anxious for more! I'll definitely be reading the next book, because Bolton throws in another twist right at the end, which was totally unexpected! I'd definitely recommend this one. Give it a try! ...more
Emerge was a really great coming of age story. I found myself relating to Laney throughout the entire book. It also brought back memories of my own hiEmerge was a really great coming of age story. I found myself relating to Laney throughout the entire book. It also brought back memories of my own high school relationship. So, it was a bittersweet story for me.
Laney and Evan have been friends since they were kids. They played together, shared secrets, and just knew each other. As the end of high school approaches, their feelings for each other change. Well, Evan has had stronger than friendship feelings for Laney for a long time, but he's finally ready to make his move. They finish out their senior year in a loving relationship, but now college looms near. They had always planned on going to college together, but it didn't work out that way, so they're forced to go their separate ways. Evan wants to make the relationship work, but Laney wants to be realistic. So, they plan to keep their friendship in tact, but put a hold on their relationship.
Off to school they go. Once they both settle in at their schools, things change. They're both meeting new people and having new experiences. Evan and Laney begin to drift apart. At this point in the book, I started getting a little nervous. I think I still held out hope that they could work it out in some way, but it's hard being in a long distance relationship at that age. I know. I tried it. The only thing that eased my mind a bit was the fact that I loved Dane. He and Laney became friends on the very first day of school. He's a bit older, wiser, and of course, attractive. I loved him, because I felt like he really understood Laney. He got to see her experience new things and show her what a more mature relationship would be like. And...they had great chemistry.
One of the things I liked the most about this book was that I got to read from all three POV's, so I felt like I had a clear idea of where everyone's head was at. It's also one of the reasons I fell for Dane. I was really happy with the way things turned out and felt like they really did end up as things should be, but I do love Evan. I want to see him with the right person.
Overall, I enjoyed Emerge. As I said above, I appreciated the reality of the story. It's relatable. I enjoyed getting to know all the characters and I look forward to reading more about this group! If you're looking for a new NA series to start, check this one out!
Quotes:
~"Open your eyes, Laney, look at me. Make damn sure you know it's me kissing you, and don't you ever hide from it."
I do as he says and then his lips are on mine. This isn't the kiss of a best friend, not the kiss of the boy next door who make you spit-shake on a deal and will always take care of you. This is the kiss of a madman who wants to make you scream his name up against a wall. The kiss makes it okay that I even just thought that, because it's a fact.-Loc 2598
~ I know my day is better if I see him in the morning before getting started. I know that I sleep better if his is the last voice I hear. My body knows the minute he walks into a room. My heart knows he needs me to give him time just as badly as I need him to give me answers. My mind knows that if I walk away now, I'll eventually be fine, but fine isn't the term I want used to describe my life.-Loc 3944...more
I'll be the first to admit that I wasn't a big fan of Garth Black when I first met him. Aside from his ego the size of Montana, he wronged his best frI'll be the first to admit that I wasn't a big fan of Garth Black when I first met him. Aside from his ego the size of Montana, he wronged his best friend. But, the guy grew on me. The key to Garth is understanding where he's coming from and realizing that yes, his ego is huge, but so is his heart. That's what made this book special. We get to see Garth love.
Garth has always been told he wasn't worth it. He's father was abusive and his mother was never a part of his life. The only people he could count on were his best friends, Jesse and Josie. Both Jesse and Josie knew that Garth was a good person. They both gave him love and friendship even when Garth tried to push them away. Now, Garth is dealing with a tragedy and his friends are right there for him once again.
I think Garth needed something big to happen to make him realize what he needed in his life. He and Jesse have made amends, but Garth and Josie keep playing this back and forth game with each other. Garth has always wanted Josie and really...she's always wanted him. Their circumstances and Garth's ego has gotten in the way though. Plus, Garth has never felt worthy of Josie. She's a good person. She also knows that Garth is worth the fight. My most favorite thing about this book was seeing flashbacks of Garth and Josie growing up. I felt like it helped me to understand that their feelings for each other have been there since they were kids. It's was pretty darn sweet.
Overall, I really enjoyed Finders Keepers. I got to see Garth in a different light, although after Near & Far, he grew on me. Garth is a good, caring, and yes...sexy guy. He won me over. And I really liked Josie too. I appreciated her determination and her sincerity. It was also great to see Jesse and Rowen again. I love the friendship that Garth and Rowen have developed. They are like souls. The four of them have a great dynamic together. The Lost & Found Series holds a special place in my heart and made fall for Cowboys! If you haven't gotten a chance to read this series yet, you must add it to your TBR!
Quotes: ~"I don't know what your definition of 'taking it slow' is, but mine is taking our sweet time in bed...after dinner on our first date. And the second, and the third, and the fourth."-Loc 1893
~"Because you deserve better than my best. You deserve the man I can and should be. Not the one everyone else knows."-Loc 1898
~"I'm not going anywhere." I lifted my hand to the bend of her waist. I curled my fingers into her and held on, hoping she'd never want me to let her go.-Loc 1901
~Now that I had everyone's attention and the babies in the room were crying...speech time.-Loc 3600
~"I wasn't the guy who fell in love with you this past winter." I shook my head. Pain flashed across her face. "I was the boy who fell in love with you that day on the school bus when we were five. And I'm the man that always will."-Loc 3647
~I didn't need eight seconds of glory when I had a lifetime of it in my arms.-Loc 3700...more
Unafraid reminded me of a fairy tale in a lot of ways. You have this girl who wasn't shown a whole lot of love, except from her brother. Because of heUnafraid reminded me of a fairy tale in a lot of ways. You have this girl who wasn't shown a whole lot of love, except from her brother. Because of her troubled home life, she was labeled throughout town as a slut. In reality, she was different. She wanted love, attention, and acceptance. Then, a boy comes into her life. He's wealthy, lives a charmed life, and has a heart of gold. He doesn't see the girl the way others do. He sees something special and he wants to win her heart.
When I met Brit in Unbroken, I immediately liked her. I saw the wounded girl. She's got sass, but she uses that as a shield. She wants a better life. She's trying hard to find a career in fashion. But because she has no formal training, she keeps getting shut down. She feels like she's constantly facing rejection, whether it's from family, town's people, or within the dream career she chases. Then, the one person who's ever made her feel special comes back into her life. Brit's skeptical of Hunter's intentions. They had one special night together years ago, but she took off before he could leave her. She thinks he's just looking for a repeat, but Hunter wants more from Brit. He wants all of her.
I really loved Brit and Hunter together. I do think he was just the kind of guy she needed. I also think that Brit was good for Hunter. He's never really been into the superficial life he's grown up in, but Brit really helps him to see what's important. Hunter has had his share of guilt and grief to overcome. She's there for him. Hunter is also trying to find his way as he brings back his grandfather's horse ranch. This is what he wants to do with his life and his wants Brit by his side.
Overall, I really liked Unafraid. I was happy to see Brit get her happy ending. She definitely deserved it. Hunter is such a great guy, so I couldn't be happier for them both. I guess the only thing I would have liked to have seen to make it better for me was a little more relationship development. They had a past and they did spend time together, but maybe if I had seen more detailed moments in their 'getting to know you' phase, it wouldn't have seemed that their love came so quickly. I'm not saying it was insta-love, I just needed a bit more. That said, I was happy with the ending. I'm looking forward to seeing more of the Beachwood Bay group and I'm anxious to read the upcoming novella that will be out in December.
This series is about a family that struggled through hard times, but they find that love does prevail in the end. If you like stories like this, definitely check this series out. I'm definitely enjoying it and recommend it.
Quotes: ~It's the kiss I've been waiting three long years to taste again, but it's like nothing I imagined. Sweet and soft, hot and slow.-Loc 526
~"Look around, Hunter. If I'm blinded by the past, then you're trapped by it! You'll never be free from this, not until you realize it's not your fault. But you won't leave them, will you?"-Loc 2942
~"Since the very first night I met you, I've known, you're different from everyone I've ever known. You're so brave, and strong, and beautiful. You make me believe in the good in the world.--That there's good in me too."-Loc 3406...more
No Reverse took me by surprise. I had seen a review for the book on a friend's blog and thought it sounded good, so I bought it. I didn't really know No Reverse took me by surprise. I had seen a review for the book on a friend's blog and thought it sounded good, so I bought it. I didn't really know what to expect. What I found was a story that I became so completely involved in, that I ended up devouring it in one sitting.
Cassie and Josh fell in love in high school. Their senior year, Cassie got pregnant and they decided to get married. The events that happened after the wedding, spurred a chain of lies and heart ache. See...Josh was the golden boy. He was smart, athletic and was destined for more than what Steep Hill had to offer. But, Josh felt like he could have all his dreams and more, as long as he was with Cassie. He was willing to make it work and he was madly in love with Cassie. However, Josh's dad wasn't going to stand for Cassie 'ruining' his son's life. So, he convinced Cassie to give up their baby for adoption and let Josh go. Cassie never wanted to hold Josh back, so she took the deal. She truly felt like she was making the right choice, even though it killed her.
The web of lies began to spin. She left town to finish out her pregnancy and give the baby up for adoption, but that wasn't exactly what she told Josh. She broke his heart by lying to him about what was really going on. She felt like she needed to in order for him to leave. Well, it worked. He left and never came back. So now, Cassie is dealing with new heart break. Her grandmother passed away, but she also finds out some devastating news about her baby that she had given up for adoption. She knows that it's time to come clean about what happened in the past, so she goes to Josh.
Josh is living in London. He's engaged to a girl he met in college. He's happy and looking forward to his future. When Cassie shows up, he really doesn't know what to do. Then, she tells him the truth about their past and it changes everything. He's conflicted, because he's never stopped loving Cassie, but he also loves his fiancee. But, Cassie and Josh's bond was just too strong to walk away from. Honestly, I was really nervous about how things were going to go. I have to say that Cassie didn't go find him to win him back, she went to him because she really did need his help. It's just that neither one of them ever let go of their feelings for each other, so it was natural for them to just be together.
I know it may seem like a lot is going on, but the story is told in the present with flashbacks to the past. So, the reader sees what's happening now, but we also get a clear picture of how things unraveled. As the story comes to a close, I felt like it could go either way, but I was really happy with how the story ended. I also think that Josh and Cassie have a long road ahead.
Overall, I really enjoyed No Reverse. So much, that I was bummed the second book wasn't available at the time I finished this one. There's just something about second chance love stories that get to me. Then, adding a baby into the mix...I was done for. This is a feels book. My emotions were all over the place and I take that a good sign. I'm really looking forward to reading Fast Forward soon, so I can see where their journey takes them!
Quotes: ~"After you, no one was ever enough." "After you, there was no one."-pg 170
~I couldn't get enough of that sweet taste of hers. It was like nothing else, no one else. Her taste was mine. I owned it. Right from the start, I'd owned it. I wanted the rest of her to be mine again.-pg 190
~"Gran always used to say that true love did not give second chances. If you were too careless to miss your first chance at it, you weren't worthy of it."-pg 242 ...more
I'm honestly not quite sure what to say in a review. I've had a tough time getting attached to the characters. I had hope to warm to them a bit more iI'm honestly not quite sure what to say in a review. I've had a tough time getting attached to the characters. I had hope to warm to them a bit more in this one, but I just wasn't feeling it. There are parts to the story that I do like and kept me somewhat entertained. It was easy to put down and it took a while for me to read, but this could be a good beach read. ...more
4.5 stars Tempted in the Tropics was fun, flirty, and romantic. The setting was great, the characters were likable, and I got to see Liza and Cole agai4.5 stars Tempted in the Tropics was fun, flirty, and romantic. The setting was great, the characters were likable, and I got to see Liza and Cole again! YAY!
I liked Paige from the first book, so I was curious about getting to know her better. She was a great character. She's quirky, sweet, and generally a good person. She runs her own bakery and struggles to make ends meet. But, she makes it work, because the town relies on her. Not only does she provide delicious treats, but she really does cater to their dietary needs. I think that shows was a kind hearted person she really is.
Then there's Lane. Lane's come into town to help his Uncle out at his practice. Lane is a doctor. After a scandal back at his old practice and a bad break-up, he's come to town hoping to get his life back on track. Paige wasn't part of his plan. Lane is a serious kind of guy, so I felt like Paige was a good fit for her. She's a lot more laid back and go with the flow. She helped him to ease up a bit and enjoy life.
There a many things that brought this couple together, but where they fell in love was at Cole and Liza's wedding. Both Lane and Paige are friends of Liza's. Paige is also Liza's maid of honor and Lane is playing music for the wedding. So, as the wedding weekend gets underway, Lane and Paige end up exploring the island and each other. The setting was so romantic, it was the perfect backdrop to fall in love. I love the relationship they developed. Paige and Lane had good chemistry. They also shared some pretty funny moments together that had me laughing.
Overall, I loved Tempted in the Tropics. I like seeing how the series is developing. I'm guessing that Trent's book will be next. He's a good friend of Liza and Paige's. He's looking for love and I have a feeling Liza and Paige may be able to help him find a special lady. I love the Bliss line. The books are great and it's introduced me to authors, such as Tracy March. If you like, fun and flirty romances, check this on out!
Quotes: ~"It sounds so delicious," she said. "And the way he says it with his Barry White voice and island accent makes it sound like food porn."-Loc 1428
~"You look...delicious," he said, and hungrily kissed a trail up her neck to her lips. "You're officially my new favorite dessert."-Loc 1579
~"I want you to know, the magic thing makes a lot more sense to me now." He traced his fingertips along her cheek and swept them beneath her chin. "It's not what you bake--it's you."-Loc 2576...more
Starting off with one of the best opening lines, ever, FINDING IT had me hooked from beginning to end. I can honestly say that I can't pick a favoriteStarting off with one of the best opening lines, ever, FINDING IT had me hooked from beginning to end. I can honestly say that I can't pick a favorite in this series now. I can also say that I didn't expect to connect with Kelsey as much as I did. This series is a definite favorite and FINDING IT confirmed that for me once again.
Kelsey is on the adventure of a lifetime. She's trotting around Europe looking for some fun. The problem is that she's using it as an escape. She isn't sure what she wants to do with her life. And...she's running from a painful past. To say she has issues with her parents, would be putting it mildly. As the story unfolds, we learn more about her relationship with her parents and the lack of support they've given her. It truly broke my heart and I saw Kelsey as a wounded soul. When she meets mysterious Jackson Hunt, she tries to connect with him the only way she knows how. With her body. But, Jackson isn't looking for a quick toss. He sees something deeper in Kelsey. He can also recognize the pain she tries to hide.
Jackson makes a deal with Kelsey to take her on an adventure. He has one week to show her what living is really like. As they travel, their connection gets even stronger. As their week of fun comes to an end, Kelsey learns the truth about Jackson and her heart is crushed. I hurt for her, but I really think it was a good thing. Kelsey had a lot of healing to do and she really needed to find her way. I loved seeing her growth, but I was even happier that she allowed herself to heal.
Overall, from the setting, romance, and the personal journey of each of them, I loved it. I devoured this book in one sitting and wasn't ready for it to end. After I had finished, I learned that there will be a novella from Jackson's POV and I. Can't. Wait. This book was more about Kelsey's journey, which I appreciated, but I can't wait to get inside his head! I highly recommend this series.
Quotes: ~Everyone deserves one grand adventure, that one time in life that we always get to point back and say, "Then...then I was really living."-Loc 45
~My amused stalker had olive-toned skin, dark eyes, and hair cut close to his head. He had that muscled, military look about him, which sparked half a dozen dirty puns in my head about him invading my territories.-loc 168
~He wasn't nearly as uninterested as he wanted me to believe, and that was what made him interesting.-Loc 267
~"I'm going to kiss you, princess. But not now, not when you're telling me to. Not when it's just something you want to check off a list. I'll kiss you when it counts."-Loc 2071
~You're my adventure. The only one I want to have. So, if this doesn't work, I'll try something else. If the military taught me anything, it was to be persistent. To whether the storms. So, that's what I'll do.-Loc 4320 ...more
First impression: I absolutely adore the cover and I was anxious to see how their story was going to wrap up.
The story: As this series has grown, I feelFirst impression: I absolutely adore the cover and I was anxious to see how their story was going to wrap up.
The story: As this series has grown, I feel like each book gets stronger and stronger. I've really enjoyed the last few books in this series. I think one of the reasons is because I really feel like the characters have grown so much. They've learned to overcome past traumas, not that they're forgotten, but they've been able to heal. Brynne and Ethan found a deep, true love and together they were stronger. They've really become a fun couple for me to read too. And the heat between them is definitely appealing. Ethan is, without a doubt, a very sexy man. I loved seeing their story wrap up.
The characters: I've always liked Ethan, so it was no surprise that I loved him even more in this one. But, Brynne has really grown on me. I no longer see her as a "weak" character. She's learned so much about herself and she's gained so much confidence. I enjoyed her.
I do have to say that some of my favorite moments with Ethan were with their baby. There is just something about a sexy man with a baby that just does it for me. It was adorable. I loved the part where he was telling the baby about the first time he saw Brynne. It brought a tear to my eye. So sweet.
What didn't work for me: There were a few times that I felt the story was moving a bit slow and sometimes repetitive. I was able to put it down easily too.
Overall: I really enjoyed Rare and Precious Things. Ethan and Brynne now have their complete HEA and I couldn't be happier for them. I'm glad I stuck with the series to see how it ended.
I have to say that I loved reading Raine Miller's notes at the end of the book. I think it's interesting how she's tied in some of her other books into the series. I loved the journal entries in this book and now I'm curious to go read Darius and Marianne's story.
If you're a fan of Adult Erotic Contemporary Romance, check this series out!
Quotes: ~"No idea. Don't care either. I shag and sleep wherever my lady is, and I always will. Pick a room, Mrs. Blackstone."-Loc 212
~Ethan liked a splash of voyeurism in our encounters. A little kinky at times, and a lot dominant, but I welcomed it from him.-Loc 257
~The things that defined me were so much more than physical, and I'd changed and grown throughout the past year while discovering that knowledge about myself. And I'd learned to love. But most importantly, I'd allowed myself to be loved._loc 3505 ...more
If I thought the first book was draining, this one was even more so. My heart was breaking for Evan. Despite feeling unsettled at the end, I really loIf I thought the first book was draining, this one was even more so. My heart was breaking for Evan. Despite feeling unsettled at the end, I really love this series. It makes me feel. It's not always a good feel, but when a book makes you feel like your heart is being torn apart, you know it's good. ...more
I immediately picked this up after finishing Beautiful Stranger. I was on a Max and Sara high and like any book junkie...I wanted more. Well, not onlyI immediately picked this up after finishing Beautiful Stranger. I was on a Max and Sara high and like any book junkie...I wanted more. Well, not only did I get Max and Sara, but Bennett and Chloe were back too! WIN! From the setting, the guys, and let's face it...the sex, this fast reading novella was fun!
Max has planned an early bachelor party for Bennett in Vegas. While this should be a fun getaway, Bennett and Max are finding it difficult to be away from their ladies. But, the girls had a plan of their own. Chloe and Max make a plan to surprise Bennett. At first, the plan seems to go awry, but once Bennett realizes his Chloe is there, that's all he can think about. So, Bennett finds ways to sneak off for little rendezvous with Chloe.
While Bennett is off with Chloe, Max is also finding ways to spend time with Sara. Their relationship isn't brand new anymore, but still new enough that they can't keep their hands off each other. The scenes between Sara and Max were my favorite. I just love that sexy Brit.
Overall, I really liked this one. It was just plain fun. I was kind of hoping that Max and Sara would elope while in Vegas. *sigh* Even though that doesn't happen, it still made me look forward to things to come for them, but also got me excited for Bennett and Chloe's wedding!!! Not to mention, Will. I can't wait to see who captures his heart!
Quotes: ~"Do you want to hear me?" "I want the entire club to hear you."-pg 17
~"You've got to be fucking kidding me," Will groaned, following Ben's gaze. With mumbled thanks, he took his drink from the waiter. "They don't even know you're here, do they? Oh my God, they do. That's why you've both been idiots all night. It's like the four of you have subconscious homing devices implanted in your genitalia." He sighed. "It all makes sense now."-pg 95
~"In fact, if you ever stop doing crazy things like that, stop being wild and foolish because you want me so much, it might just ruin me a little."-pg 120 ...more
Beautiful Beginnings was my favorite novella in the series so far. I loved seeing the whole group together again and we finally get to see Bennett andBeautiful Beginnings was my favorite novella in the series so far. I loved seeing the whole group together again and we finally get to see Bennett and Chloe get married!!! This novella was super fun and definitely sexy!
Chloe, Bennett, and the rest of the crew head out to California for the big event. Nothing is going as smoothly as they had hoped or planned. But, Bennett and Chloe take it all in stride and are determined to make their day special. Of course, if it were up to Chloe, she'd take off and elope. But, Bennett knows his girl and knows that she really needs to have this day. I absolutely adored Bennett in this novella. He really went above and beyond for Chloe. Adding to the tension, Bennett decides to withhold sex from Chloe until they're married. For those of you that have read their book, you know that this is no easy task. They have great chemistry and I love how they can't keep their hands off each other. The chastity deal surely made things interesting.
There's not much more I can say without ruining the book. Just know that there are a lot of little mishaps, but they get through it together and with help from their friends. One thing is certain, this couple is in love and I almost felt like I got to be there with them for their special day. So, as you can tell, I loved Beautiful Beginnings and feel like it was a great addition to a fantastic series!
Quotes: ~"This is just a prank, right? No shaved head or scars?"
I pulled back to study her. "That was a very specific question. Scars?" I shook my head, clearing it. "And no, no, no, no. Just a silly little prank." I gave Hanna my best smile, the one Chloe said made panties drop. But apparently it only made Hanna more suspicious.-pg 41
~Bennett Ryan was a swoony fucking bastard, and tonight-stupid chastity rule or not-I was going to ride him like a horse.-pg 49
~I could feel myself smile, then see it reflected in the way her entire face seemed to light up, and I did the only thing I could think.
I whispered the words, "Come here."-pg 148
~"Tonight," he growled, returning to my neck. "Tonight I'm going to consummate this marriage so fucking hard you're going to walk with a limp on that beach in Fiji."-pg 157
~"We're married. That's insane. Who let this happen?"
He didn't even break a smile. Instead, his eyes grew heavy, his voice even lower. "I'm going to disrespect the fuck out of you later."-pg 161...more
3.5 stars Beautiful Bitch felt like a nice little added bonus after reading Beautiful Bastard. I liked that I got to see what happened after their reun3.5 stars Beautiful Bitch felt like a nice little added bonus after reading Beautiful Bastard. I liked that I got to see what happened after their reunion and the new challenges they face as a couple. The biggest challenge is time. They're both busy with work and expanding the company's office to New York. Finding time to cherish their love can be difficult. I really loved seeing Bennett in a more vulnerable light, but I also loved hearing his dirty mouth too. The ending was perfect for them and I can't wait to read more about their story. In the meantime, I get to meet the next sexy bastard, Max! I got a glimpse of him in this novella and I'm very excited about getting to know this Brit better. What can I say? I have a thing for accents. Overall, I enjoyed this one. I would definitely suggest reading it if you're interested in the series. There are some pretty great moment between Bennett and Chloe that shouldn't be missed!
Quotes: ~ "I want you on your knees on my bed. I want you sweaty and begging. I want you wet enough to drink from."-pg 23
~"Here to show me how to grow a penis so I can get the job done?" "Chloe, I'm pretty sure if you wanted to grow one, you could do it by will alone." She let a half smile form, pushing back from her desk and crossing her legs. "I'd grow one just so I could ask you to suck on it."-pg 97
~Bennett was waiting for me, probably sitting outside in the sun this very moment, laptop open and working like the overachieving loser he was. God, he turns me on. -pg 106...more
I'm just going to go ahead and put it out there that I'm really glad that I gave this series a chance. I thought I loved Bennett and Chloe, but Max anI'm just going to go ahead and put it out there that I'm really glad that I gave this series a chance. I thought I loved Bennett and Chloe, but Max and Sara might just be my favorite. From the British accent to his smooth moves, Max won me over from the start.
I wasn't too sure what I was going to think about Sara coming into this book. She's introduced in the first book, but I didn't feel like I knew her too well. Within the first chapter, I knew I was going to like Sara. She's fleeing Chicago for New York to work with Chloe and Bennett after a devastating break-up with her long term boyfriend/fiance. Now, Sara is looking for a change. She wants to go out and have fun. She wants to enjoy the single life. But, the first night out, she runs into a beautiful stranger with a British accent. Throwing caution to the wind, Sara gives into her some of her wilder fantasies and let's just say...she has a good time with said stranger.
Coincidentally, the stranger is a friend of Bennett's. Max and Bennett have been friends since college and occasionally work together on business ventures. After Max figures out that Sara is working with Bennett, he does everything he can to get in front of her again. He can't stop thinking about her. She's different, she's challenging, and he wants more. Max doesn't really do relationships, but what he's feeling for Sara is unlike anything he's felt before. And Max won't give up until he gets her.
The sexual chemistry between these two was pretty freaking great. And even though Max was looking for something more, Sara was having fun losing inhibitions. Specifically in public places. With pictures. While the sex was hot because of the spontaneity and surprise factor, it grew to mean more for both of them and they both ultimately wanted more than just sex.
Overall, I loved Beautiful Stranger! It's my favorite in the series so far. I can't tell you how many times Max and Sara had me laughing one minute and turned on the next. It was pretty awesome. This book wasn't all about sex though. Sara had some personal hurdles to overcome before she was fully ready to get involved with Max. While I felt Sara had more growth, I felt like Max did too in the way that he really wanted to give more of himself to Sara. I devoured this book in a single sitting and immediately dove into the next novella, Beautiful Bombshell. I had to have more MAX!
Quotes: (I had over 20 pages tagged with quotes.)
~He'd been watching me all night? I couldn't decide if that was fantastic, or a little creepy.-pg 9
~"You give good innuendo."-pg10
~He might bruise me, I thought. and then: I hope he bruises me.-pg 30
~"If you didn't tell him my name, what did you tell him?" She pressed her palm against my cock, squeezing. Was she going to give me a wank in the cab? Fucking brilliant.-pg 142
~"Do you like American accents, or no? Because the whole British thing you have going on makes me want to do very wicked things to your mouth."-pg 246
~"It was easy. Falling absolutely in love with you was really fucking easy. Isn't it supposed to be that way? Just because I haven't been brokenhearted in recent years doesn't mean I'm incapable of it. Fuck, Sara. I've been wrecked for the past two weeks. Positively smashed."-pg 335...more
I had been seeing All Of You all around the blogosphere and it looked like something I might like. Then, a Pal of mine read it and enjoyed, so I boughI had been seeing All Of You all around the blogosphere and it looked like something I might like. Then, a Pal of mine read it and enjoyed, so I bought it as soon as it came out. I really enjoyed it and was impressed that this was a debut novel.
You know, at first I wasn't sure if I would like Avery, but once I really understood where she was coming from, I really grew to like her. Her relationship with her mother is complicated. Her mother never provided a healthy role model with relationships. There's more to it than that, but let's just say they didn't have a good relationship, but Avery felt a sense of responsibility to her, because her younger brother was still living at home. She wanted to make sure her brother was cared for in every way. I really loved the relationship she had with her brother. It was the only healthy relationship she had.
Then she meets Bennett. Based on looks alone, Bennett is pretty great. But, as I got to know him, I saw what a truly special person he was. He also had a bit of a difficult past, but he tried to live his life the best he knew how. When he and Avery meet, there is instant chemistry. Avery doesn't want to acknowledge those feelings, but she is willing to hook up. Bennett has other plans though. He doesn't do casual sex. He wants more from Avery. Once Avery let Bennett in to her life, the walls started coming down and I felt like they both had growth as a result of opening themselves up to love. They were a really great couple.
I don't really have much else to say about the book, but overall, I really enjoyed it. I liked getting to know Avery and Bennett. I also liked Avery's friends and Bennett's friend Nate. I'm looking forward to more from this author. Check it out if you're a fan of NA Contemporary Romance!
Quotes: ~His breathing intensified and I felt his bulge growing against my back. But Bennett said nothing more and made no other moves. I got the feeling her was trying to hold himself back, and there was no way I was going to throw myself at him. It was the single most sensual moment of my life.-Loc 576
~"They don't make me feel anything. Not one. Damn. Thing." I shoved against his chest and his face crumpled. "But you... you already own a piece of me. Don't you get it?" I yelled, stumbling back.-Loc 1672
~Before we drifted off to sleep, he whispered in my ear, "Avery, I want us to work through the sad and hard parts together. To always find our way back to each other."-Loc 2679...more
4.5 stars First impression: I absolutely love the cover. When I had signed up for this tour, I had just read The Regret Series and really fell for Jacks4.5 stars First impression: I absolutely love the cover. When I had signed up for this tour, I had just read The Regret Series and really fell for Jackson's writing style. I couldn't wait to read this story!
The story: Jared and Aleena's story really pulled at me. I loved that Aleena was the pesty kid sister who had a crush on her brother's friend. But, it was really a deeper connection than just some crush. When Jared left town, Aleena was devastated but, he always remained in her heart. So when he showed up back in town, it was a shock to them all. She was thrilled yet, cautious about having him back. And Jared was a bit stunned to find Aleena all grown up.
Jared is a tortured soul and his story is slowly revealed throughout the book. I liked seeing the flashbacks, because I felt like it gave me a better sense of what their relationship was like growing up and how they had such a strong connection. I also felt like the flashbacks helped build the emotion leading into learning what had happened. It was heartbreaking.
The characters: There was a familiarity to Aleena's character for me. I can't quite pinpoint it, because she is unique to this story, but I think there are just some characters you develop a stronger sense of who they are, how they look...just a stronger overall visual. Make sense? She's compassionate, patient and simply a nice person. She always looked at the good in Jared, but wasn't naive to his darker side either. I really felt like she was a strong character. I admired her.
I almost feel bad saying that Jared was sexy, but he was. Why do I feel bad about that? Well, he has some very serious personal demons. I'm not saying that as a bad thing, it just took me to a different place with Jared. Yes, he was sexy, but I also wanted to just hold him and reassure him throughout the book. He was so lost.
Jared and Aleena as a couple were great. They had strong chemistry and yes, there were some steamy moments. But, what stood out to me more was the fact that their connection wasn't just physical. They created such an intimate relationship before they even became physical. That's what made me fall for them as a couple.
What didn't work for me: I felt like the relationship between Gabe and Aleena was unnecessary. Jared and Aleena had enough drama. I understood that it was used to establish the fact that Aleena always had her heart with Jared, but I think the situation with Gabe didn't really need to be developed. Honestly though, I'm hard pressed to find anything wrong. It was truly well done.
Overall: I really enjoyed it. I'm anxious to see how their story is going to develop from this point forward. I need to know, but I'm also a bit nervous for them. This isn't a light hearted book and you will likely need tissues, but if you want a book that gives you the feels, definitely check it out.
Side note: I want a book for Aleena's brother, Christopher.
Favorite Quotes: ~This boy was painted in his pain.-Loc 394
~"But I like you, and believe me, I've been there before. There are just some boys who are so broken they can never be tamed, and in the end, they just end up breaking you."-Loc 2341
~Joy teased along the fringes of my consciousness, quivered, and rose. This--this was our deception, where I wanted to live until the day I died. Where nothing was real but the secrets we whispered in the night.-Loc 2589
~"You were my first crush." She sobered, her voice strained as sincere green eyes slanted up to me. "And my only love." Her throat bobbed as she swallowed, almost painfully. "I've been waiting for you my whole life." Her words penetrated my blackened soul. And I fucking got it, this innocent girl who I'd taken. She'd always been mine.-Loc 3789 ...more
Wow...what a way to end the series! BOLD TRICKS was action-packed, intense, and definitely had some hot, hot, hot moments! I was on the edge of my seaWow...what a way to end the series! BOLD TRICKS was action-packed, intense, and definitely had some hot, hot, hot moments! I was on the edge of my seat until the very end.
The story picks up immediately where Shooting Scars ended. Ellie, Javier, and Camden are on their way to find Gus, Ellie's mom, and finally get their revenge on Travis. The best part of this scenario for me was seeing how Javier, Ellie, and Camden all had to be around on another. The tension was certainly high and I didn't envy Ellie in the least! Plus, she's trying hard to make things better with Cam. He's still upset about the events that occurred in Shooting Scars. It's a difficult situation all around.
A key moment for me was Ellie and Gus' new found father-daughter relationship. I just love Gus. He's always been there for Ellie. And speaking of parents, I did feel like Ellie got some resolution with her mother. I have to say though...her mother was just awful. She was so completely selfish. I couldn't stand her. Even up to the very end.
I know this review may be vague, but there is so much that happens in the book that draws the series to a close. I don't want to ruin the experience for other readers. So, I guess the most important thing I can say is...if you're a fan of this series...buckle your seat belt. It's a bumpy ride getting to the end, but I couldn't have been happier with the way the series ended. Definitely check this series out if you're looking for a romantic suspense with some edge!
Quotes: ~He gave me life, if only for that moment, when we were joined as one, and I was a better version than the girl I was before.-Loc 1704
~"I love you," he said, his voice gruff. "And I'll have you. Keep you. Own you. You belong to me, only to me, from now on."-Loc 2105
~Then the sun rose and his lips lightened my soul and his heart set me free.-Loc 3215
I'm conflicted in writing this review. There were things that I liked about this one and I felt like it had a good overall message and also had potentI'm conflicted in writing this review. There were things that I liked about this one and I felt like it had a good overall message and also had potential to be really good. Mainly, I had trouble connected to the characters. I also felt like the story went in a direction that I didn't really care for. I think the result could have been achieved in a different way. I rarely finish books that feel conflicted about, but I liked a good portion of the book. I suppose it went a bit down hill for me in the second half. ...more
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