Bang By E.K. Blair

Is it wrong that I am currently more interested in seeing what other people think of this novel than I am sharing my views? It's not that I don't know, i'm more itching to find out what every one else think because this is one for a book club.

It's hard to explain how I really feel because I don't really know what I am feeling. I just spent the last 3 days reading this novel and I am just as confused as when I started and I would be lying if I said that I wasn't pissed with this ending -_-

This book is one big mess and only E.K. probably knows how to clean it up. The story line is solid and never waving but at the same time, the story isn't constant and the characters, except for maybe Declan and Bennett, are extremely damaged and the biggest douche canoe of them all is our guide.

But guess what? ... I loved it!

It takes a steadfast state of mind to like the narrator of this story and the men are all pawns in a scheme that is bred from pure misfortune turned abuse. It might not be a bad story but when you can't trust the narrator, you will have some problems when you just wanna escape her deceit.

Bennett was the biggest player in this novel but he was also the most absent. He spent more time in Dubai than he did in Chicago so I didn't get to know him like I did Nina, Pike and Declan. He seems like a good guy who got caught in a web that's laced with more poison than a snake and we don't even find out his purpose until the end of this novel and by then his fate is sealed. By the time Bennett gets some sense and I feel like we might have a good battle of wills, it's bang and we are left waiting to see who if any one survives part two.

Pike and Declan got a lot more light but I spent so much time focusing on the con in this novel that I didn't get the time to focus on Declan;'s character as much. He is passionate I will give him that and he is quite the understanding kind; sexy as hell in the kitchen and one of the nastiest and most possessive men I have ever read about. I am NOT down with that waste matter life. Piss somewhere else Mister, I am not a toilet!!!

Pike as a kid could make any woman fall to their knees. I loved that little boy to the point of obsession from we saw him coming out of that truck with Carl. I even loved him some when they grew up. He was constant, dependable, damaged and fighting for the worse live that was dealt him from the age of 2. I know you will all think I am crazy but I still love him. He got a ray of light after spending all of his formative years in terror and abuse and it's becoming a little hard for him to let that go. His actions? ... undesirable. His light was snatched from him and he retaliated like an angry abused man would. The years would wear on anyone.

Unfortunately, his anger brought this whole story to it's knees. I keep wanting to rewind because I am confused as to how a situation can tank to these levels in such a short time. If they get away with this it will have to be on a much more complex level than Pike and Elizabeth's reasoning.

I empathized with a young Nina because she had it hard and to hear her first introduction to sex would chisel any cold heart a little. The abuse in this novel was raw and painful but Nina erased those feelings to the point where I was unable to stand her inner monologues anymore. The chick is crazy and needs some help. I had a difficult time deciphering her emotions because just as I feel like I know what she is feeling, she reveals her real thoughts and I feel just as manipulated as every one else in this novel.

It's either hot or cold no lukewarm. I can't trust any one in this book because everybody has an agenda and their moral compass is all over the place. This is a complicated story and it is impossible for you to put a definitive name or emotion to the final body of work. It's a struggle from beginning to end so don't expect to ever understand or pick a side. There is no side, it's every one for themselves!

I can't say much without giving this book away but I am also a bubbling mess because I need someone to discuss what it is I just read. I truly believe Pike and Elizabeth could have a different path but is that eve possible now?

E.K. Blair has written emotional novels before but I never expected this level of emotional from her. The story, formatting, editing is impeccable and you can see the time and effort placed in creating the final published work but it's also so confusing that she will either end up giving us one of the most splendid stories in this genre for the year or it will tank and leave us gaping. The complications and web can lose even the best of authors.

I commend her though because this story had me even when I wanted to skip the wavering sex scenes to get to the necessary points. It was like a video game as you tried to get up to the next level. I might have dislike the narrator and remained in the dark for 90% of this novel but I won't discount that E.K. Blair wrote another spectacular piece and I really hope Carnegie helps her out in the end with this one because she is gonna need all the help she can get and he seems to have all the answers.

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22065449-bang-black-lotus-1

When I Break By Kendall Ryan

It's not much to write home about. Knox is suppose to a sex addict and McKenna is trying to run her self ragged volunteering all over Chicago like she ain't got bills to pay. I like McKenna and Knox as individuals but they make for a very weird couple. I do appreciate their friendship though as I found it comfortable and easy going from it began. If anything has me stumped, it's her reaction at the end of this book and that it ended in a cliffhanger.

Knox's brothers were the highlight of this novel for me. The boys were straight forward and hilarious. They act their respective ages and I like that Jaxon is currently in that place where he's bound to get himself in trouble. Knox wasn't a hypocrite when it came to his brothers and their sexual adventures. My favorite line might be "I had no clue whose virginity Luke was planning to take and honestly I didn't really care as long as he wrapped it up." It was definitely something Knox would say.

He wasn't a perpetual tough guy and we occasionally got to see his softer side when in the presence of McKenna and the boys. Is he a sex addict? Quite possibly! But I think he wavers in that category because he does possess a high level of control with his "addiction" and the many struggles in his every day life. He's a guy, with a lot of responbilities, so naturally he messes up at times, but for the most part, he's a good friend, brother and whatever he has going on with McKenna.

I have nothing against the girl but McKenna needs to wake up and grow up. Her issues aren't really an issue and let's clear something up now ... she isn't a virgin. She just haven't had good sex and only attempted it once. Doesn't make you a virgin McKenna! She is way too innocent and this book eludes at BDSM but I can't see it from either of them. He's too controlled and sweet with her and she's like Mary's little lamb.

There is no actual penetration sex in this novel. It's a lot of fore and oral play but no one is getting their stick dipped. It's basically PG.

The conflict in this novel is getting over and addiction that Knox doesn't really have and McKenna finding redemption for something that isn't really her fault. I personally think she needs to get a real job and stop blaming herself for something that was so not her fault. Both major conflicts are almost unnecessary and I wish we could spend more time seeing these two as a couple raising the boys. It's make for a more interesting story because we aren't actually hearing what's going on in SAA, so what's the point?

This is a short, quick read and while not much happen in the way of a relationship or sex, it was a good book that you can read in one sitting to pass some time. It's heavily family based and it's not filled with your cliche girl looking for love. She is shy, timid and the definition of philanthropic.

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/19540226-when-i-break

Spin By C.D. Reiss

Is it me or is it the stories that I have been reading of late? I don't understand a thing! What was that?! Where is this going? I kept on wondering if it was because I hadn't read the 'Songs of Submission' series, but I find as I went along, that it didn't really matter. Johnathan was featured when necessary but it neither aided or injured the story. He helped with a problem and gave us a cameo of Monica, but that's about it. You really might not need to read that series to read this one.

Theresa is brave, fierce,  loyal, fiery and most importantly, adaptable. Maybe a little too adaptable. She easily switches between clairvoyant accountant to Mafia queen with the press of a trigger. Thing is, I actually believe it. She can be any one she needs to be in a  moment and I love that about her.

My problem is, where does it all fit? I need more of her past and family history to understand the woman she is today and aiming to be in the future. She's rich, loyal, ruthless and is brimming with potential, but I still wanna know where she is coming from and what gives her the ability to tackle problems like she does.

She seem to have a boat load of siblings and her family doesn't seem as clean as I initially thought. The deeper this story gets, the more confusing I become, to the point where I had to re-read a few conversations and lines because I wasn't sure who was speaking or what they were talking about.

I like Spin. I actually like calling him Spin also :)

I enjoy Spin the lawyer, the sentimental Italian, the persistent suitor and even the jealous boyfriend. What I didn't care for, was Spin the Capo. There were moments when I liked him being an Italian boss, but then his world got crazy and he just seems too soft to be apart of it, much less lead it. His explanation of his past life was also like a scene straight out of 'The Godfather Part I' ... I could literally anticipate his next visual.

If this had remained a love story between a businessman, accountant and District Attorney, then I'd have a better angle. When you got into the underworld crime scene, I was not impressed and it's not just because of the lack of answers.

The sex scenes were not as hot as I anticipated for a man of his description and a few were rushed and felt forced. I don't know about any one else, but not even a porn star's first time doing anal would be the outcome of Theresa's. I was a little scared for Spin at that point o.O

I doubt they had sex in a bed once and I am fine with that, but after the first sex scene, it all became repetitious.

There were a lot of details and potential for witty one liners and growth. The story however, fell in a mold and by the end I was even more lost and thoroughly surprised at the end. Cliffhangers have become a regular in the world of novels, but this one gave no clarity on no one item. Everything is a loose end.

I love a good Mafia book, preferably Russian, but I don't mind a little Italian occasionally. I just didn't get the mafia vibe from this novel at all. Personally, I don't think he was respected as a Boss and I am still unaware of his actual operations, if any. He can beat out a brick wall, fix an Italian car, make great scrambled eggs, drive like a NASCAR driver and get a complete stranger to lick vomit off the hood of a car. Mafia Capo? ... Not so much.

A lot of details were placed in crime network; the world of Hollywood talent and movie producing. I always love and commend an author who do their research. She might not have a lot of help with Capo's in the Italian mob, but she excelled in crime covers, producing a movie and pouring over financials.

This story needs direction and a solid background, not built on hearsay, to get us a better understanding of the main characters. I don't connect with them as a couple. They could be such a strong pair together. I can see them dominating any room and I hope we will get more of that in the next installment. At their age and maturity, they are too grown to be picking petals off of "he loves me not" flowers.

I'd  read the next installment, but I am not in a big hurry. I was surprised to see that at this time, not even a blurb was present for the next installment, especially with where the book ended. I find it hard to believe that the author wrote to that abrupt point and just called it quits.

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/21424508-spin

Buying Thyme By T.J. Hamilton

So this is a first, normally when I am finish reading a book, I check on other reviews in the rating category I feel best describe said book. I can normally find at least one review that mirrors my own. I am out of luck this time, as none seem to capture what I am feeling. Either they are too good or too bad. I feel like this book fell in the middle and threaded both lines occasionally.

It's not what I expected and I didn't build a connection with any of the characters. I found myself wanting to see Joe and Toni again, but being disappointed with Tom this and Tom that. Maybe I did make a connection in Joe, but he is lined up will a bulls eye so we spent more time with his competition.

I am completely unaware as to the background of all the characters. I am only even sure that two (2) people used their real name throughout the novel. It was to the end when we got some insight into Miranda and by then I was over her character. I even so much as cheated and read the synopsis of the other two novels in the series, before finishing this one and I still have no sense of direction with regards to the story and it's characters. Where is this all going? It's one conspiracy theory after the next.

I am assuming Joe Tench is suppose to be the bad guy, but other than a very wrong ballet session, he seems like an ok guy to me. Yes, his decisions in the end were dramatic to say the least, but c'mon Miranda! You would have thrown a fit if you caught your man cheating on you!

Miranda plays the role of a "high class escort" well. She is committed to her craft and possess quite the system. It's not a hobby, it's her job and she attacks it with vigor, pride (as much as is possible) and dedication. Honestly, she enjoys this, because she hardly never climax. She is just as attached to these clients as they are, but she keeps in mind what time her pumpkin will arrive. I'm unaware of her background and I'm not really interested either.

Emphasis was placed on explaining every single detail and by the end, I had nothing of value that's memorable, as I see the beginnings of a whole new story line about to be come to life. The coincidences at the end were not ironed out either and had me questioning the rushed ending that did nothing for me. The only person I am interested in from this novel is Joe and he seems to be gearing up for a very bad ending.

The story is set in Australia and I realize I have been venturing in that pond as of late. I love Australian stories, because it brings a totally different lifestyle and culture. The excessive details became an advantage in capturing Australia from a real Aussie's perspective. If she lied or messed up a detail, I am unaware because I believed her in everything Aussie related.

The story line became increasingly confusing as we progressed and I didn't see half the danger or feel a smidgen of the emotion that Miranda felt, as she narrate. I don't mind reading the next novel in this series, but I will take a break in between for fear that I might not like the next one. A clear unbiased opinion is best and I currently need a break from Miranda and Tom. I can already see this series gearing up to become a Nikita without the Agency. Miranda is a prostitute and a very good one at that. Training her to become a spy? ... I just can't see it!

What I found interesting, was that so much time was placed on elaborating every little make up trick and accessory, but the ending was rushed with gaping holes. How does she run away and drop off the radar of such a high ranking Government agency, that a crime boss himself had to leave the country, to stem off some of the heat? Especially the fact that she is 8 hours away lying on a beach o.O

When did her brother call this Nick guy and was he waiting on the call? Cause he got there awfully fast! I was neither impressed or captivated with this story. The story line got crazy and everything turned into conspiracy theories.

If not for a total of maybe 5 scenes, I would surely not think of Mr. Trench as a crime boss. Maybe he is; that's fine, but I need to believe it and I don't. The only thing I can state without a doubt from this novel, is that Miranda makes a really good call girl.

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18040477-buying-thyme

Crashed By K. Bromberg

Not very often this happens, actually, it's the first. At the beginning of composing my review, I had to read my review on the two previous books. I don't know what happened, but for the life of me, I just couldn't remember my emotions from the books before.

Now that I am all caught up, I would like to believe, that it is the uniqueness of this series, where each installment gets better as it relates to character and story development, but it's also equal parts unmemorable.

It was too long and could have been trimmed down to half it's size. The contradiction to this very statement is further below. Watch out for it, because it can't be helped. I was intrigued, bored, intrigued, bored and this continued to the very end. It was an endless loop. In it's quest to cover all the bases, it wasn't such the home run I anticipated it to be.

There has always been a soft undertone to this story and it was present in this installment also. I call these novels 'comfort zone' novels. They are comfortable to read and will take you days sometime to finish, but they aren't bad, they are just slow to build and keep, so you move as such. Momentum's aren't kept but the details are exquisite to the point of you getting bored.

Colton. I can definitely say I know him better now. He is quite the romantic and I have never read about a scavenger hunt of this caliber in a romance novel before. It woke me right up and placed a smile on my face that had people wondering if I was losing my ever loving mind! Good job on that buddy! You totally claimed the checkered flag for that one!

I completely forgot my disconnect with Rylee, until I read my previous reviews. That's what I call, the power of a backbone! She had it all and more in this novel. This is a relationship, a partnership, a struggle. This is how two adults fudge through the mess life has dealt and find their way together. I have always commended this novel for it's approach. 'I love you' is not an insta marriage proposal and it helped me to appreciate Colton's journey to his perfect epilogue.

The details of this novel was spectacular, especially the racing scenes. I have always loved when an author gets some research in and it reflects in her work. I never missed a skipping heart beat, sigh or moment of impact. I was at the edge and in between. If nothing else, I lived for those racing scenes! I say take out the detailed sex scenes and give us more time on the track!

The boys were not to be left out in this installment and I will say that I had hold out hope that they might have adopted them all, but that's not how rich people stay rich, unless your Brad and Angelina :)
The moments spent with them and their incorporation into everything Rylee was wonderful! I'd also like a job like Rylee's, because the way they lived in hospitals throughout this novel is unprecedented! Especially because they aren't doctors or nurses.

I believe in and of this couple. Their struggles, solutions and path to their ending was not an easy one. It was filled with almost weekly obstacles and the reveals and cleansing was lethargic. Everything is done in it's own time frame, even at the cost of other details. This however, does not deduct from the fact that I got bored frequently and at one point was only reading to finish. I had to take breaks, it was the only way to not be cynical with my review when I was done. It was too long and too detailed, but it was also those details that kept it from becoming a complete failure.

I can promise you that this book covers it all. On top of that, there is a little surprise for readers from K.Bromberg at the end. Get your copy, get a long flight or vacay and close the chapter on Rylee, Colton and the boys. If I could ask for anything else from this series, it would be a Zander novel. Read it get to claim your own checkered flag at the end.

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17880714-crashed

Cherry Girl By Raine Miller

Neil and Elaina is the perfect couple. No fuss, no doubt, it's all rainbows and sunshine with these two. I however, could have done without reading about them. When I began reading this story, I totally thought I was reading about Gabrielle and Ivan (totally had to do a kindle search on that) and then I realized who they were my mood plummeted a little :(

I fell asleep and took a lot of breaks to complete this novel. I literally had to power through the last 15% just so I could move on to another novel. I am obsessive like that and I hate to start one book without finishing another. It's not that this story wasn't well written, it's more the focus and elaborations. There are many elements to the story, that could have aided in the monotonous tone of this novel, but they were benched in favour of issues that no one (meaning me) was interested in.

The constant basic sex did nothing for me either. At times I contemplated skipping the sex scenes but I never skip scenes when I am reading a book for the first time, plus these two seem quite vocal while the act is going on.

I liked young Neil and Elaina (totally forgot her name for a minute there, almost called her 'Cherry Girl'). They were funny, witty and definitely a little on the wild side. The moment they announced and began to explore those feelings it all went into the crapper!

I wanted bad, boozed up and high like a kite Elaina fantasizing about the much older, playboy Neil. They worked for me. Sappy Neil and stammering Elaina, of this lifetime, was boring and I barely finished this novel if not for my strong sense of determination :)

Even the conversations at times became pointless, space fillers, in a novel that doesn't even reach 300 pages. The climatic moments were flat and it's in writing my review, I realize that I completely disregarded them for what they were. I also found myself re-reading a fair amount of paragraphs, because my attention span as it relates to this novel was nil. It took as little as, Neal describing sex with Elaina, for me to start wondering if there's anything new on Netflix -_-

If I hear the word 'cherry' in a sentence again for the rest of this month I might just go crazy! Believe me, you can't possibly forget the title of this book or the color of Elaina's hair or any other cherry reference! This book certainly brought attention to the fruit, because I for one, have never been that big of a cherry fan. It's more a garnish for me and that's what this book should have been for the Blackstone series.

I think they were the "star couple" from the 'Blackstone Affair' series and by star I mean, the couple-we-all-wanna-be type. As for them getting a whole novel for themselves? No bueno!

They are great together as a couple, they have a lovely back story, potential and a great foundation. Their families, support system and struggles are real. I don't doubt the sincerity of their love and their relationship, but that's also why people (meaning me) will watch 'Real Housewives of Atlanta' over 'Tori and Dean', it's much more interesting!

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/19072743-cherry-girl

Return to Poughkeepsie By Debra Anastasia

Beckett Taylor is a murderer. His calling, his craft are destruction and intimidation—whether he wants it that way now or not. He left Poughkeepsie to keep his brothers safe, to keep Eve safe. Set up with happy lives to live, they’re better off without him, right?

But all his willpower crumbles when he hears his brother Blake’s frantic voice on the phone. An unknown enemy has moved in on his old territory, and Livia’s been taken. In an instant, Beckett knows it will take an attack only he and Eve can execute to bring her back. All his self-imposed embargoes are torn to shreds, perhaps along with the new man he’s struggled to become.

“Brother, call Eve. I’ll be there soon.” 

In this emotional and action-packed sequel to Poughkeepsie, Debra Anastasia conjures a tale of love at its most raw and ragged. With Beckett and Eve, how could we expect anything less? But even when it’s messy, not magical, true love perseveres. Real love finds a way—for better or for worse until death does part.

So, I'm from Jamaica. A small island in the middle of the Caribbean Sea. When I picked up a copy of 'Poughkeepsie' , I was a little skeptical. I didn't know it was an actual place. I found the cover intriguing but it still left me a little edgy. I wasn't sure if I was gonna like or not, but I fell in love after Chapter 1.

It was unusual, complicated and surreal. Blake the homeless, Cole the priest and Beckett the criminal. Even I had to admit the mix was intriguing! Beckett was like no other book villain, by then, I had read Latrivia Nelson's stories of Dmitry and Anatoly Medlov so I thought I knew scary!

The 'Poughkeepsie Brotherhood series' is one that you expect to be well written and edited. In this, it did not disappoint. There was a story line, past, present, future and realistic elements that gave it that natural spin. The introduction of Ryan? Brilliant and beautifully done! Surely not what I expected.

If my review so far seems lacking in enthusiasm, that's because it is. I personally wanted more Beckett and Eve time. I also missed Mouse like never before. His impact was all over this novel, from the cover to the acknowledgement. I hated most, if not all of the kidnapping scenes, because while they were fantastic, I still had this feeling like something was missing. Those blow me out the water elements from book 1 weren't present and all the kidnappings had me confused. Maybe it's the momentum and pace, but something is just missing for me.

I won't say I was bored, because I was surely not. This is one of those action packed, fast paced, you can't blink or you might miss something novels. I loved the characters and their personalities differ for sure. Humour was present and I actually like the antics of Mary Ellen and Primo. I loved every inch of this novel, but I just needed more Beckett and Eve. I assumed this would be their time to shine and rule Poughkeepsie. I love a bad Beckett!

My favorite moments in this novel were the times spent with Eve and Beckett. I love their fierce, unforgiving love and even without Mouse they make an awesome team who can't be matched. I also promise Debra, that if anything happens to Eve, I shall come after you -_-

Within this novel, is a sentimental moment between Cole and Kyle. That letter should be framed and given a place in the Smithsonian! I'm not a crier, but it got me a little teary and my heart beating like crazy. To move between sentimental and rugged moments so flawlessly is a gift that is portrayed throughout this novel. My feelings are mixed and my emotions vary from high to low. I just can't get a read on it all!

All who survived to see another day got their reintroduction and some even got a new path. We were introduced to new, interesting characters that I know will be critical to the upcoming novel in this series.

Then came the sneak peek and I officially hate Debra Anastasia! (Just kidding)!!

C'mon Debra! That sneak peek was like giving a kid a lollipop, saying 'psych'! and taking it back. It is cruel and unusual punishment. I demand a recount! Something, because to wait until the end of 2014 for that continuation should be a crime!

It's impossible to cover the extent of this novel and it's events in one review, you will definitely need to get a copy and experience 'Poughkeepsie' from the eyes of those who love and hate it.

Even though it's missing an unknown element for me, I can't call this story bad or boring. It was detailed, thorough and gave us more than we needed at times. We got to see Eve in her element, a changed Beckett (unfortunately), Kyle all grown up, Livie as a momma bear and Cole as always the priest. The whole gang is here and you surely don't want to miss Eve and Beckett's raunchy, borderline insane sex scenes.

I also love the mouse nod on the cover, see if you can figure it out ;)

If it packs such a punch now, can you imagine when she adds chemical X to the next installment? o.O

Take a peek, you won't be disappointed!

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16086479-return-to-poughkeepsie


Author Bio

Debra Anastasia is busy, just like every other mom. There's dinner, the dogs, the two kids, and her violent IBS--which is under control thanks to medication except for occasional multi-tonal farts. Her first love and crowning achievement is her thriving career as the weirdest mom on the block.

Her writing started a decent handful of years ago when--along with the animals and humans in her house--the voices of characters started whispering stories in Debra's ear. Insomnia was the gateway to plots that wouldn't give up, wouldn't let go. Now they stalk her everywhere. Halfway through making lunches, a twist takes hold and--fingers full of peanut butter--she finds somewhere, anywhere to write it down.

She's eternally grateful to Omnific Publishing, which has now published four of her books: two in the Seraphim Series and two in the Poughkeepsie Brotherhood Series, as well as her novella, Late Night with Andres. That one is special because 100% of the proceeds go to breast cancer research. (So go get it right now, please!) She also very much appreciates her open-minded readers, who embrace everything she has to offer, with a focus on anti-heroes and bathroom humor.

Debra lives in Maryland with her family. You can find her at DebraAnastasia.com and on Twitter @Debra_Anastasia. But be prepared ...

She Has Your Eyes By Elisa Lorello

Andi and David have settled happily into Andi’s Northampton home, but David wants more. He wants them to get married. Their discussion is put on hold when Wylie, a fifteen-year-old girl, shows up in their backyard, bearing news that takes David’s mind off the future and sends it spiraling into the past. Reeling from David’s news, Andi receives a startling announcement of her own, one that leads to a relationship with her estranged mother. As Andi and her mother get closer and Wylie weaves her way into their lives, Andi finds solace in an old comfort: her ex-fiancé. With the past threatening to eclipse their future, the timing for a wedding is all wrong. But if Andi knows anything about timing, it’s that there’s no time to waste.

I remember reading 'Faking it' and 'Ordinary World' and how I loved them both. I also remember how I felt at the end and none of them evoked the feelings I have for 'She has your eyes'.

Don't assume you know the content or progression of this book, because you will be wrong! I surely was. The entire series reads as complete stand alone's and this one is no different. You never feel cheated or short changed after reading a book from this series.  Closure and content is too mild to describe the feelings I got from this story.

Maybe I am getting older or its the material and genre of this novel, but this is what I have been looking for in the longest while! The problems are every day struggles that transcends to the pages beautifully! It's nice to take a break from young adults and traverse the world of womanhood. The over 35 crowd can be quite spectacular :)

This is reality, even if in the end, is the better side.

Andi and David has stayed true to their characters throughout this series and watching them acclimate to the problems thrown their way is great. But even with the changes, we are thrown in the past with a little Devin/Cutrone madness occasionally. The thing that could have made this book scorching is more detailed sex scenes, but that wasn't even necessary. Their story stood on it's own without the help of sexual gimmicks. There was enough good content, issues, momentum and struggles to last us a lifetime!

I love Wylie! She is a riot! If anything, I would have loved to spend more time with her character. She is not what I expected and she definitely contributed spice to this novel. She came in like hurricane force winds and kept her momentum throughout. Her personality, reactions and presence was a great addition and I love when she fell in the role of a typical teenager. Trish seems just as awesome!

Separate and apart from the obvious main issue of this novel, we got to clear mistakes of the past and curve our way to the future. We even got a wedding in the mix :) English lessons were prominent as always. For anyone interested in details, you will love this book. If you don't learn anything after reading this novel, then you should probably read it again ;)

This book did something for me that 'Ordinary World' didn't. It helped me understand and appreciate Sam's character for the first time. I still don't approve of it, but I understand it.

Andi's relationship with her brothers have always been solid, but we get some one on one time with her mom and that was more precious than anything else highlighted in this novel. Even with death plaguing the fringes of this novel, it never once felt like 'Faking it' or 'Ordinary World'. There is evolution and growth. You are transported to a different time in both Andi and David's life. You get to see them struggle to find their footing, as both individuals and a couple.

The surprise for me was the inclusion of Andrew in the story. If you don't remember Andrew, then you need not worry. You will by the end of this novel. All I will say is, he shook this book and no one, or at least I, didn't even remember him. I will not though.

A more mature crowd would understand and appreciate this novel, but anyone can give it a go. It is real, concise, detailed and leave you wanting more while feeling satisfied. Women's Fiction has a new face, and her name is Elisa Lorello.

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18318647-she-has-your-eyes

- http://www.amazon.com/She-Your-Eyes-Elisa-Lorello-ebook/dp/B00D237Q6I/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1392511679&sr=1-1&keywords=she+has+your+eyes

Elisa Lorello was born and raised on Long Island, the youngest of seven children. She earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth and eventually launched a career teaching rhetoric and composition. Elisa spent six years in North Carolina, where she split her time between teaching writing to university students and publishing her own work. She has since returned home to the Northeast. Elisa is the author of Kindle bestselling novels Faking It and Ordinary World, Why I Love Singlehood (co-authored with Sarah Girrell), and Adulation. Faking It, translated in German as Vorgetäuscht, also spent three consecutive weeks at #1 on the German Kindle Bestseller List. When not writing, Elisa is an unapologetic Duran Duran fan, Pop-Tart enthusiast, walker, and coffee shop patron, and she can sing two-part harmony.

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