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lifeinthebooklane's review
4.0
Cross Jacobs *swoon*
I first read this when it was a part of the Team Player anthology. When I heard it had been updated and was being re-released I jumped at the chance to read the new version. Whilst it's part of the Gibson Boys series it can easily be read as a stand alone, the book very much focuses on Kellie and Cross and no prior/background knowledge is necessary. I really couldn't see the 'seams' where the book had been reworked, but then when it's written by an author of this talent I really don't expect to.
This was written with the usual fun, emotion, steam and amazing undefinable quality that I have come to expect from Adriana Locke. Her books draw you straight in, the characters feel very real, natural and are always likeable. This is quite a skill when writing such a short story, but for me I prefer a novella to be character driven, which this is.
Kellie and Cross have history, but Cross's refusal to grow up and take responsibility gave Kellie no choice but to leave him behind. Now she's back, but has anything changed? Well one thing that hasn't is there incredible chemistry and their feelings for each other, but will they get a HEA in this second chance romance? You'll have to read it to find out but what I will tell you is that this held my attention and had me caring about the characters almost straight away.
The writing and pace are excellent, Kellie and Cross are both believable characters, the dialogue is witty and fun and, even in this short read, there is plenty of emotion portrayed. There are some hot 'n' steamy moments, with things progressing quite quickly but, because of their intense past together, this didn't feel rushed or too insta-love (which just doesn't do it for me).
If you've never read any of Adriana Locke's work why???? and also this is an excellent 'taster' of what to expect from this very talented author.
I first read this when it was a part of the Team Player anthology. When I heard it had been updated and was being re-released I jumped at the chance to read the new version. Whilst it's part of the Gibson Boys series it can easily be read as a stand alone, the book very much focuses on Kellie and Cross and no prior/background knowledge is necessary. I really couldn't see the 'seams' where the book had been reworked, but then when it's written by an author of this talent I really don't expect to.
This was written with the usual fun, emotion, steam and amazing undefinable quality that I have come to expect from Adriana Locke. Her books draw you straight in, the characters feel very real, natural and are always likeable. This is quite a skill when writing such a short story, but for me I prefer a novella to be character driven, which this is.
Kellie and Cross have history, but Cross's refusal to grow up and take responsibility gave Kellie no choice but to leave him behind. Now she's back, but has anything changed? Well one thing that hasn't is there incredible chemistry and their feelings for each other, but will they get a HEA in this second chance romance? You'll have to read it to find out but what I will tell you is that this held my attention and had me caring about the characters almost straight away.
The writing and pace are excellent, Kellie and Cross are both believable characters, the dialogue is witty and fun and, even in this short read, there is plenty of emotion portrayed. There are some hot 'n' steamy moments, with things progressing quite quickly but, because of their intense past together, this didn't feel rushed or too insta-love (which just doesn't do it for me).
If you've never read any of Adriana Locke's work why???? and also this is an excellent 'taster' of what to expect from this very talented author.
megan_elise's review against another edition
2.0
I know. I know. It’s a novella. It’s suppose to be short. I get that. But, this is also why I don’t read novellas. I just really wanted to read their book. I thought it would be an exception. It wasn’t. I feel like so much was skipped. Such missed opportunities the characters, their story and their development. But, it’s a novella so I should have expected it. I am just sad because I wanted more from them. :/
pattyfgd's review against another edition
5.0
The Gibson Brothers are so much fun to get to know, and this quick novella of their friend Cross just adds to the perfection. Adriana Locke has given Cross the second chance with his high school sweetheart Callie. When Callie realized Cross was not ready to settle down, she took matters into her own hands and left, ending their relationship. Now back in town, the two cross paths and the sparks ignite. But is it just residual feelings come to life? Is their love that strong to have withstood their separation? So much is shown in growth and maturity with Callie, it's easy to root for them to succeed! This is a quick listen, but is full of all our favorite characters from the Gibson Brothers series, always love running into their cousin Peck! The emotions are high and give a feeling of love and hope.
Narrated by Wen Ross and Kai Kennicott, this duo continues to amaze me with their performances. It's easy to get pulled in and feel like these characters are familiar by the portrayal they give. They make each listen an enjoyable experience.
Narrated by Wen Ross and Kai Kennicott, this duo continues to amaze me with their performances. It's easy to get pulled in and feel like these characters are familiar by the portrayal they give. They make each listen an enjoyable experience.
nicki_theoverflowingbookcase's review against another edition
5.0
Second chance romance at its best
A beautiful second chance romance. Kallie and Cross had fallen in love but the romance fell apart because of insecurities and immaturity, so Kallie moved away. When she comes back a few years later the connection between the two is still as strong as it was before, but can they reconnect and forget about the past? Or will the same insecurities rear their ugly head ending the relationship once and for all? With wonderful characters and a heartwarming storyline this novella should not be missed.
A beautiful second chance romance. Kallie and Cross had fallen in love but the romance fell apart because of insecurities and immaturity, so Kallie moved away. When she comes back a few years later the connection between the two is still as strong as it was before, but can they reconnect and forget about the past? Or will the same insecurities rear their ugly head ending the relationship once and for all? With wonderful characters and a heartwarming storyline this novella should not be missed.
scvallese1's review against another edition
5.0
I originally read this novella when it was a part of the Team Player anthology last fall. I love the original version, but it is revised with some added chapters which add more depth to the characters.
Cross and Kallie had dated when they were younger. Unwilling to "grow up", Kallie broke things off with Cross and moved away. Now she has moved back to Linton, and while some things have changed (Cross, for one), not everything has (small-town gossip). Cross is determined to prove himself to Kallie, who is still skeptical about his intentions.
I absolutely loved both Cross and Kallie! They were both so real, and I would love to hang out with this group! I loved revisiting the Gibson boys and getting to know Machlan a little better.
This novella also has a couple of other shorts that Adriana Locke had previously released (through newsletters, I believe). I enjoyed Blaire and Holt's story (Blaire is a Gibson sibling), who run into each other at the airport, as well as with those Landrys. I also very much enjoyed the short with Nora (who works at Crave) and Kip (the cop). Yum!
I definitely recommend this novella!
Cross and Kallie had dated when they were younger. Unwilling to "grow up", Kallie broke things off with Cross and moved away. Now she has moved back to Linton, and while some things have changed (Cross, for one), not everything has (small-town gossip). Cross is determined to prove himself to Kallie, who is still skeptical about his intentions.
I absolutely loved both Cross and Kallie! They were both so real, and I would love to hang out with this group! I loved revisiting the Gibson boys and getting to know Machlan a little better.
This novella also has a couple of other shorts that Adriana Locke had previously released (through newsletters, I believe). I enjoyed Blaire and Holt's story (Blaire is a Gibson sibling), who run into each other at the airport, as well as with those Landrys. I also very much enjoyed the short with Nora (who works at Crave) and Kip (the cop). Yum!
I definitely recommend this novella!
reading_with_2_book_lovers's review against another edition
4.0
Ms locke has done it again with a great second chance story. I loved this short novella.