Take a photo of a barcode or cover
amanda_reads13's reviews
480 reviews
Lost and Lassoed by Lyla Sage
funny
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
When Cam leaves for the summer, Gus is left as a single parent and is completely overwhelmed trying to take care of his daughter and the ranch. His family convinces him to hire Teddy as a nanny, the problem is he and Teddy hate each other.
This was another really cute and fun addition to the series. I love how intertwined the all are and they we get to see the growth of the other couples relationships.
Gus is a typical older child who takes on too much responsibility and feels like the care of his whole family is on him. He's a micromanager who needs to oversee everything to ensure everything goes perfectly. He has a hard time leaning on other people and asking for help, he's incredibly stubborn. He is such a good dad; Riley is his whole life and he will do anything for her even if that means making concessions he isn't happy about.
Teddy comes across as extremely confident and worry-free, but underneath she feels like she's drowning. When she loses her job she feels like she no longer has a purpose, she feels disconnected from her best friend because Emmy is getting married, and she also feels the weight of caring for her father. She is lost, but the summer with Riley allows her to reconnect with her creative side. Teddy adores Riley and you can see that they have a really special relationship.
We eventually figure out what has caused this rift between Teddy and Gus. Gus feels like Teddy was a bad influence on his sister and blames her for his sister's recklessness. Teddy is pissed at Gus because he kissed her and walked away.
I loved seeing these two characters grow throughout the book. We see these two stubborn and hard-headed characters soften the longer they spent together. I like that we never lost the banter between them even as the relationship between them changed and grew.
Tropes: cowboy, enemies to lovers, single dad/nanny, close proximity, best friend's brother, age gap
This was another really cute and fun addition to the series. I love how intertwined the all are and they we get to see the growth of the other couples relationships.
Gus is a typical older child who takes on too much responsibility and feels like the care of his whole family is on him. He's a micromanager who needs to oversee everything to ensure everything goes perfectly. He has a hard time leaning on other people and asking for help, he's incredibly stubborn. He is such a good dad; Riley is his whole life and he will do anything for her even if that means making concessions he isn't happy about.
Teddy comes across as extremely confident and worry-free, but underneath she feels like she's drowning. When she loses her job she feels like she no longer has a purpose, she feels disconnected from her best friend because Emmy is getting married, and she also feels the weight of caring for her father. She is lost, but the summer with Riley allows her to reconnect with her creative side. Teddy adores Riley and you can see that they have a really special relationship.
We eventually figure out what has caused this rift between Teddy and Gus. Gus feels like Teddy was a bad influence on his sister and blames her for his sister's recklessness. Teddy is pissed at Gus because he kissed her and walked away.
I loved seeing these two characters grow throughout the book. We see these two stubborn and hard-headed characters soften the longer they spent together. I like that we never lost the banter between them even as the relationship between them changed and grew.
Tropes: cowboy, enemies to lovers, single dad/nanny, close proximity, best friend's brother, age gap
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexual content
The Wrong Quarterback by C.R. Jane
dark
funny
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
Casey heads to college and catches the eye of the most popular man on campus, the quarterback.
Parker is pretty unhinged. He is obsessive, controlling, protective, and possessive, with a side of insane. Some of his choices are questionable boardering on illegal (spiking Grey's drink, setting her dorm on fire, locking her on the basement) , but he will do anything to keep Casey safe and happy. Parker' stalking was pretty funny at times. Overall he is kind of likable and goofy, but some of his behaviour was ick inducing.
Casey is a very sweet and naive girl who is dealing with the loss of her brother. She has been in love with his best friend, Grey, forever and when they finally get together, she just lets him treat her like shit because he is a connection to her brother. Honestly, she has little fight in her and even less confidence. I wanted to see her stand up for herself more, especially against Parker, she just rolls over and accepts his crazy.
Overall, it was a fun read with some dark romance elements. Parker and his friend group are ridiculous. I am excited to read Jaces story and hope we get more of the secret society storyline. I LOVEd that we got to see some of the past men and a glimpse into his relationship with his brothers. I loved her relationship with her roommate, I hope we get a book about her.
Tropes: stalker, football, college, instalove, he falls first, secret society, found family
Parker is pretty unhinged. He is obsessive, controlling, protective, and possessive, with a side of insane. Some of his choices are questionable boardering on illegal (
Casey is a very sweet and naive girl who is dealing with the loss of her brother. She has been in love with his best friend, Grey, forever and when they finally get together, she just lets him treat her like shit because he is a connection to her brother. Honestly, she has little fight in her and even less confidence. I wanted to see her stand up for herself more, especially against Parker, she just rolls over and accepts his crazy.
Overall, it was a fun read with some dark romance elements. Parker and his friend group are ridiculous. I am excited to read Jaces story and hope we get more of the secret society storyline. I LOVEd that we got to see some of the past men and a glimpse into his relationship with his brothers. I loved her relationship with her roommate, I hope we get a book about her.
Tropes: stalker, football, college, instalove, he falls first, secret society, found family
Content Warnings
Graphic: Confinement, Death, Emotional abuse, Misogyny, Sexual content, Toxic relationship, Grief, Stalking, Car accident, Gaslighting, Alcohol
Moderate: Death of parent
Scythe & Sparrow by Brynne Weaver
dark
funny
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? N/A
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
Each running from their own demons, Fionn and Rose crash land in each other's lives, uprooting everything they each thought they wanted.
I love how all three books weave together and we get a similar timeline throughout all three. It really helps add an interesting perspective to all three stories.
Though it does have its dark moments, this one definitely had more of a focus on developing their relationship rather than their "extra curricular activies". We got a bit of their murdery sides sprinkled throughout, but a lot of the plot was spent developing their relationship. We did still get a fair share of ridiculousness and laugh out loud moments, especially the addicted raccoon and the knitting circle.
Fionn has effectively isolated himself from everyone and everything except for his medical practice. He is closed off and hides away from the darkness inside him. Rose opens his eyes to what is possible in life and to embrace his darkness.
Rose is a performer and tarot card reader at a circus, who also helps women "take care" of their abusive husbands. Her abusive past has lead her to become a vigilante of sorts, specializing is specific "plants". Rose is a firecracker! It's absolutely hilarious that she is so disgusted by blood that it makes her sick.
I wish we had got more into their pasts, we got the highlights, but never really delved deep into it. The epilogue was so funny... Rowan is ridiculous. I am very intrigued about this new mystery character that we were introduced to.
Tropes: Opposites attract, friends to lovers, dark romcom, slow burn, forced proximity
I love how all three books weave together and we get a similar timeline throughout all three. It really helps add an interesting perspective to all three stories.
Though it does have its dark moments, this one definitely had more of a focus on developing their relationship rather than their "extra curricular activies". We got a bit of their murdery sides sprinkled throughout, but a lot of the plot was spent developing their relationship. We did still get a fair share of ridiculousness and laugh out loud moments, especially the addicted raccoon and the knitting circle.
Fionn has effectively isolated himself from everyone and everything except for his medical practice. He is closed off and hides away from the darkness inside him. Rose opens his eyes to what is possible in life and to embrace his darkness.
Rose is a performer and tarot card reader at a circus, who also helps women "take care" of their abusive husbands. Her abusive past has lead her to become a vigilante of sorts, specializing is specific "plants". Rose is a firecracker! It's absolutely hilarious that she is so disgusted by blood that it makes her sick.
I wish we had got more into their pasts, we got the highlights, but never really delved deep into it. The epilogue was so funny... Rowan is ridiculous. I am very intrigued about this new mystery character that we were introduced to.
Tropes: Opposites attract, friends to lovers, dark romcom, slow burn, forced proximity
Content Warnings
Graphic: Addiction, Animal cruelty, Death, Gore, Gun violence, Sexual content, Blood, Grief, Stalking, Murder, Injury/Injury detail
The Charlie Method by Elle Kennedy
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
Charlotte is the quintessential good girl... At least on the surface. In the evening her alter ego, Charlie, comes out to play. After meeting Beckett and Will on a hook up app, her two worlds start to collide.
I did enjoy the overall story, but felt like it didn't really delve deep enough for me to make a strong emotional connection with the characters. That said, overall the story was really fun. I loved these three together, they had so much chemistry and really helped one another heal.
Charlie was adopted from Korea as a baby and always resisted making a connection to where she was from. She is very concerned about her image and she worries about not fitting into her adopted family or sorority. She keeps so many parts of herself hidden, including her joy of fast cars and hook ups. So, it is no wonder she wants to keep her polyamorous relationship a secret.
I felt like the whole brother storyline could have been left out. While I love that she is learning about her past and making a connection to her brother, I feel like it distracted us from the main storyline. I feel like it was only added to exacerbate her stress level.
Will and Beckett are hockey playboys with a specific kink... They like to share. They never allow emotions to get involved, that is until they meet Charlie.
Will is a hockey player and the son of an asshole politician. He always feels like he has to live up to his father's high expectations and do whatever he says. He hates it. We see him slowly gain the confidence to stand up to his father and become his own man.
Beckett never allows emotions to get involved when he is with a woman. He lost a love and it traumatized himhis high school girlfriend died of leukemia. He fights his feelings for Charlie because he has never actually dealt with his trauma, he just keeps it bottled down. We see his relationship with Will and Charlie help to heal him and allow him to open his heart again.
THE DAD CHAT! I want a whole book of just that! PLUS Hollis coming back as the coach... Perfection and hilarious!
Tropes: Why Choose, MFM Romance, Secret Dating, Multiple POV, althetes, women in STEM
I did enjoy the overall story, but felt like it didn't really delve deep enough for me to make a strong emotional connection with the characters. That said, overall the story was really fun. I loved these three together, they had so much chemistry and really helped one another heal.
Charlie was adopted from Korea as a baby and always resisted making a connection to where she was from. She is very concerned about her image and she worries about not fitting into her adopted family or sorority. She keeps so many parts of herself hidden, including her joy of fast cars and hook ups. So, it is no wonder she wants to keep her polyamorous relationship a secret.
I felt like the whole brother storyline could have been left out. While I love that she is learning about her past and making a connection to her brother, I feel like it distracted us from the main storyline. I feel like it was only added to exacerbate her stress level.
Will and Beckett are hockey playboys with a specific kink... They like to share. They never allow emotions to get involved, that is until they meet Charlie.
Will is a hockey player and the son of an asshole politician. He always feels like he has to live up to his father's high expectations and do whatever he says. He hates it. We see him slowly gain the confidence to stand up to his father and become his own man.
Beckett never allows emotions to get involved when he is with a woman. He lost a love and it traumatized him
THE DAD CHAT! I want a whole book of just that! PLUS Hollis coming back as the coach... Perfection and hilarious!
Tropes: Why Choose, MFM Romance, Secret Dating, Multiple POV, althetes, women in STEM
Content Warnings
Graphic: Emotional abuse, Misogyny, Sexual content, Gaslighting
The Dixon Rule by Elle Kennedy
emotional
lighthearted
sad
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Diana and Shane have never got along, but when Shane's ex shows up with her new boyfriend, Diana agrees to be his fake girlfriend. As the charade goes on, their feelings become more complicated.
I really appreciate that this part of the series is devling into some heavier topics and really focusing on the emotional connection between the MCs. In this one, we deal with the loss of a parent, a meddling ex, mental health, and an abusive/stalker ex. These are all real world problems that could easily tear apart a couple, but we see it grow their connection.
I adore these two together. Their banter is absolutely hilarious and they have so much chemistry. I loved watching their connection grow as their friendship grew and their attraction deepened to more than physical. They rally around each other in their time of need, build each other up when their confidence dips, and help each other heal. I think both of them show a lot of growth both sperately and together.
Diana is an incredibly strong, independent, and fierce woman who says it like it is. She prides herself on her strength, so whenshe is attacked by her ex and he starts to stalk her, she is shaken to her core. She starts to experience panic attacks, but is too ashamed to get help. Eventually she learns that needing help isn't a sign of weekeness and that she can lean on others, including mental health professionals.
After break up lead to a wild year, Shane has earned quite the playboy reputation. Yet, there is a lot more to Shane that meets the eye. Yes, he is a cocky, goofy guy, but he is also hardworking, protective, thoughtful, and compassionate. I think it was really important that he got the closure he needed with Lyndsey and saw who she really was, otherwise that could have been a "what if" always handing over them.
As insane as these boys are, they are genuinely so supportive of one another. Yes, they will poke fun at each other, but when it comes down to it, they have each other's backs.
Tropes: fake dating, enemies to friends with benefits to lovers, hockey/dancing, college, found family, forced proximity
I really appreciate that this part of the series is devling into some heavier topics and really focusing on the emotional connection between the MCs. In this one, we deal with the loss of a parent, a meddling ex, mental health, and an abusive/stalker ex. These are all real world problems that could easily tear apart a couple, but we see it grow their connection.
I adore these two together. Their banter is absolutely hilarious and they have so much chemistry. I loved watching their connection grow as their friendship grew and their attraction deepened to more than physical. They rally around each other in their time of need, build each other up when their confidence dips, and help each other heal. I think both of them show a lot of growth both sperately and together.
Diana is an incredibly strong, independent, and fierce woman who says it like it is. She prides herself on her strength, so when
After break up lead to a wild year, Shane has earned quite the playboy reputation. Yet, there is a lot more to Shane that meets the eye. Yes, he is a cocky, goofy guy, but he is also hardworking, protective, thoughtful, and compassionate. I think it was really important that he got the closure he needed with Lyndsey and saw who she really was, otherwise that could have been a "what if" always handing over them.
As insane as these boys are, they are genuinely so supportive of one another. Yes, they will poke fun at each other, but when it comes down to it, they have each other's backs.
Tropes: fake dating, enemies to friends with benefits to lovers, hockey/dancing, college, found family, forced proximity
Content Warnings
Graphic: Emotional abuse, Misogyny, Panic attacks/disorders, Physical abuse, Sexual content, Toxic relationship, Grief, Stalking, Death of parent, Gaslighting, Abandonment, Injury/Injury detail
The Graham Effect by Elle Kennedy
emotional
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Gigi and Ryder have very little in common, other than their desire to play professional hockey. These two couldn't be more different, but when they make a pact to help each other, their feelings lead them to a place they never expected.
This one was an emotional roller coaster that I was not expecting. I feel like this one went deeper and a little bit darker than any other in the Briar U universe. There are some really heavy topics covered in this bookex. Murder, death of a parent .
Gigi is the daughter of Hannah and Garrett Graham, one a professional musician, the other a professional hockey player. She's always felt that she's lived in her father's shadow and wants to achieve something he never has - win an Olympic gold medal. She has this drive to prove that she can be as successful as him. Gigi is a people pleaser who constantly feels guilty for her feelings.
Ryder had a horrific childhood.At the age of six he watched his father shoot and kill his mother. After that he was bounced from foster home to faster home, never having a family to call his own. Ryder prefers to keep the past in the past and keep his secrets close to his chest. He doesn't open up to anybody. He carries around the guilt of his father's actions. He kind of blames himself for his mother's death. We as readers know this is unreasonable, but for somebody who experience such trauma and never was able to deal with it, it's understandable.
I loved Gigi and Ryder together. Though they are complete opposites, they compliment each other perfectly. Gigi helps Ryder break down his walls, learn to forgive himself, and work to reconcile with his past. She also gives him a sense of safety and the love he has been craving. Ryder is Gigi's rock. He's her personal cheerleader, building her up, standing up for her, and encouraging her to set healthy boundaries. Ryder's character underwent so much growth in this book and throughout their relationship.
Though a surprise, I think the wedding actually makes sense. I think the real world, these two would have a chance to make it. They created a really strong foundation of trust, respect, and emotional connection. You can feel how much they love one another.
Of course One of my favorite parts was getting to visit our OG couple, Hannah and Garrett. I love getting to see where their lives led them and what happened to their children. I loved how Hannah immediately took Ryder into their family... And eventually the relationship between Wyatt / Garrett and Ryder. With them he finally gets the family he has been craving for so long.
Tropes: secret relationship, hockey players, grumpy/sunshine, friends with benefits, college
This one was an emotional roller coaster that I was not expecting. I feel like this one went deeper and a little bit darker than any other in the Briar U universe. There are some really heavy topics covered in this book
Gigi is the daughter of Hannah and Garrett Graham, one a professional musician, the other a professional hockey player. She's always felt that she's lived in her father's shadow and wants to achieve something he never has - win an Olympic gold medal. She has this drive to prove that she can be as successful as him. Gigi is a people pleaser who constantly feels guilty for her feelings.
Ryder had a horrific childhood.
I loved Gigi and Ryder together. Though they are complete opposites, they compliment each other perfectly. Gigi helps Ryder break down his walls, learn to forgive himself, and work to reconcile with his past. She also gives him a sense of safety and the love he has been craving. Ryder is Gigi's rock. He's her personal cheerleader, building her up, standing up for her, and encouraging her to set healthy boundaries. Ryder's character underwent so much growth in this book and throughout their relationship.
Of course One of my favorite parts was getting to visit our OG couple, Hannah and Garrett. I love getting to see where their lives led them and what happened to their children. I loved how Hannah immediately took Ryder into their family... And eventually the relationship between Wyatt / Garrett and Ryder. With them he finally gets the family he has been craving for so long.
Tropes: secret relationship, hockey players, grumpy/sunshine, friends with benefits, college
Content Warnings
Graphic: Domestic abuse, Gun violence, Sexual content, Grief, Death of parent
The Dare by Elle Kennedy
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
2.5
College was supposed to be Taylor's chance to reinvent herself, unfortunately she wound up being the constant target of her sorority sisters. Connor is tired of meaningless hookups, so when Taylor begs him for his help to complete her dare, he jumps at the opportunity.
I was really enjoying Connor and Taylor's story until all of the break ups. There was absolutely no reason to break up had they just COMMUNICATED with each other. Alas, miscommunication and withholding information is prevalent throughout this entire story. It's not even just between the main characters, it's between the main characters and supporting characters as well. For example, Connor not communicating with his mother and stepfather leads him down a path of destruction.
In this book, Kennedy tackles topics of insecurity, body image, toxic friendship, revenge, porn, and coping with parents new relationships. We see Connor struggling to accept his past and Taylor struggling to accept herself.
I think we can all see a little of ourselves in Taylor. She struggles with insecurity and body issues and feels less than the women around her. This makes her constantly doubt Connor's feelings because she doesn't think he could actually be attracted to her. Society tells women if you aren't thin, you're ugly and less than. This is something that's drilled into girls heads for their entire lives. We see her focusing a lot on her weight, dieting, and comparing herselves to others. It was nice to see the evolution of her confidence throughout the book.
I appreciate that we got more of Connor's backstory and that we got to understand why he is the way he is. Connor doesn't feel worthy of anyone's love so he never gets attach to anyone. He never opens up to anyone and rarely trusts anyone. Throughout the book we see him struggling with his past and learning to trust and open up to Taylor. It's really hard for him to do. Connor puts up a really good mask to try to fit in with the "rich kids" even though he always feels worthless around them.
I really like Taylor and Connor together. I think they are really cute and sweet together. They help one another come to terms with their insecurities and begin to accept themselves. They make each other feel worthy of love.
The Dare: Taylor's dared to hook up with Connor. She begs him to pretend with her and they wind up deciding to continue the charade. Eventually, they catch feelings.
The revenge porn:One of the sorority sisters posts a video of Taylor and another girl making out in during rush week on a porn site.
Tropes: fake dating, friends to lovers, opposites attract, college
I was really enjoying Connor and Taylor's story until all of the break ups. There was absolutely no reason to break up had they just COMMUNICATED with each other. Alas, miscommunication and withholding information is prevalent throughout this entire story. It's not even just between the main characters, it's between the main characters and supporting characters as well. For example, Connor not communicating with his mother and stepfather leads him down a path of destruction.
In this book, Kennedy tackles topics of insecurity, body image, toxic friendship, revenge, porn, and coping with parents new relationships. We see Connor struggling to accept his past and Taylor struggling to accept herself.
I think we can all see a little of ourselves in Taylor. She struggles with insecurity and body issues and feels less than the women around her. This makes her constantly doubt Connor's feelings because she doesn't think he could actually be attracted to her. Society tells women if you aren't thin, you're ugly and less than. This is something that's drilled into girls heads for their entire lives. We see her focusing a lot on her weight, dieting, and comparing herselves to others. It was nice to see the evolution of her confidence throughout the book.
I appreciate that we got more of Connor's backstory and that we got to understand why he is the way he is. Connor doesn't feel worthy of anyone's love so he never gets attach to anyone. He never opens up to anyone and rarely trusts anyone. Throughout the book we see him struggling with his past and learning to trust and open up to Taylor. It's really hard for him to do. Connor puts up a really good mask to try to fit in with the "rich kids" even though he always feels worthless around them.
I really like Taylor and Connor together. I think they are really cute and sweet together. They help one another come to terms with their insecurities and begin to accept themselves. They make each other feel worthy of love.
The Dare:
The revenge porn:
Tropes: fake dating, friends to lovers, opposites attract, college
Content Warnings
Graphic: Body shaming, Bullying, Emotional abuse, Sexual content, Grief, Toxic friendship, Sexual harassment
The Play by Elle Kennedy
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? N/A
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
2.5
After disastrous last season, Hunter has decided to take a vow of celibacy and focus all of his energy on hockey. Demi is really making him regret that choice.
I listen to the audiobook, overall, I enjoyed the narrators. That said, I was really annoyed by the narrator for Demi continually mispronouncing words.
I think this is my least favorite in the Briar U universe. I really enjoyed Hunter's character leading into this book and did really like him throughout this book. I think my problem was mostly with Demi.
Demi is a very opinionated, strong woman, but when it came to her relationship with Nico, she let him walk all over her. I understand wanting to trust your partner, but you would think you would investigate a little bit further knowing he has cheated in the past. Also, I don't understand how she could ever want to be friends with Corinne again, she slept with your boyfriend. She should be written off forever.
I hated that she pressured Hunter to break his vow. It was really important to him and she should have respected that. If the roles had been reversed, we would have called him scum, dirtbag, or asshole. But it doesn't matter who it is, he said no repeatedly, yet she continued to put pressure on him. That makes her an asshole. That whole situation really put a sour taste in my mouth.
I loved Hunter in this book. We got to see a whole different side of him. I wish the author had dived deeper into his past and not just giving us tiny glimpses and surface level information. I understand where Hunter's vow of celibacy comes from, he was scared to turn into his father, which makes a lot of sense. That said, he's nothing like his father and I'm really glad that Demi helps him understand that.
Overall, I did like Demi and Hunter together. I think they had a really fun and sweet relationship, but there was something lacking there. I didn't feel as deep of an emotional connection as I would have wanted.
I enjoyed the banter and camaraderie of the hockey team. Especially with Pablo Eggscobar... Hilarious! The friendships in these books are always one of the highlights for me.
I actually really liked the ending and how it tied everything together. The scene with TJ was really disturbing, but we see how Demi handles the situation and can picture her thriving in that field of work.
The news of Hollis and Rupi, wasn't overly shocking. They're both crazy, in a good way, and we expect this type of over the top shenanigans from them.
Tropes: hockey, college, friends to lovers, rebound, opposites attract
I listen to the audiobook, overall, I enjoyed the narrators. That said, I was really annoyed by the narrator for Demi continually mispronouncing words.
I think this is my least favorite in the Briar U universe. I really enjoyed Hunter's character leading into this book and did really like him throughout this book. I think my problem was mostly with Demi.
Demi is a very opinionated, strong woman, but when it came to her relationship with Nico, she let him walk all over her. I understand wanting to trust your partner, but you would think you would investigate a little bit further knowing he has cheated in the past. Also, I don't understand how she could ever want to be friends with Corinne again, she slept with your boyfriend. She should be written off forever.
I hated that she pressured Hunter to break his vow. It was really important to him and she should have respected that. If the roles had been reversed, we would have called him scum, dirtbag, or asshole. But it doesn't matter who it is, he said no repeatedly, yet she continued to put pressure on him. That makes her an asshole. That whole situation really put a sour taste in my mouth.
I loved Hunter in this book. We got to see a whole different side of him. I wish the author had dived deeper into his past and not just giving us tiny glimpses and surface level information. I understand where Hunter's vow of celibacy comes from, he was scared to turn into his father, which makes a lot of sense. That said, he's nothing like his father and I'm really glad that Demi helps him understand that.
Overall, I did like Demi and Hunter together. I think they had a really fun and sweet relationship, but there was something lacking there. I didn't feel as deep of an emotional connection as I would have wanted.
I enjoyed the banter and camaraderie of the hockey team. Especially with Pablo Eggscobar... Hilarious! The friendships in these books are always one of the highlights for me.
I actually really liked the ending and how it tied everything together. The scene with TJ was really disturbing, but we see how Demi handles the situation and can picture her thriving in that field of work.
The news of Hollis and Rupi, wasn't overly shocking. They're both crazy, in a good way, and we expect this type of over the top shenanigans from them.
Tropes: hockey, college, friends to lovers, rebound, opposites attract
Content Warnings
Graphic: Infidelity, Sexual content, Violence, Gaslighting
The Risk by Elle Kennedy
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
After a horrific internship interview with a sexist asshole, Brenna pretends that Jake is her boyfriend to try to impress said asshole. Unfortunately, Jake is the star hockey player for Harvard, Briar U's rival team... Which is why noone can find out about their relationship.
Jake is your stereotypical cocky hockey player. He is set to end his final year at Harvard on a high note before he heads to the Edmonton Oilers. He doesn't do relationships or commitments, he doesn't need the distraction.
Enter Brenna, the confident, witty, beautiful woman who captures his attention. Brenna doesn't do relationships for a whole other reason. When she was 15 she got pregnant and almost died when she miscarried. Her ex was set to go to the NHL, but instead he became an addict. She doesn't trust very easily and her walls are strong and high.
Brenna is headstrong and hard-working, something she has to be in order to work in her chosen field. She dreams of being a hockey sportscaster, which we come to find out is an incredibly sexist field. The men constantly degrade and ignore her, it was really icky to read, yet, it is reality.
I think they are really cute together. They both have very strong personalities, which could easily overpower a partner. I think this why I think they work - they balance each other out. I enjoyed the forbidden/secret aspect of their relationship. I didn't like the miscommunication/third act breakup, it was completely unnecessary. They had been so open with their communication then all of a sudden he just lets Hazel get in his head? Doesn't make sense.
The timeline for the book felt too short for me. All of this happened in a matter of weeks, maybe a month? I think that is why the ending and epilogue felt forced and lacking to me.
The side story of Hollis and Rupe was hilarious! I hope they get a book because it would be highly entertaining.
Tropes fake dating, hockey, forbidden, secret relationship, rivals to lovers, collegw
Jake is your stereotypical cocky hockey player. He is set to end his final year at Harvard on a high note before he heads to the Edmonton Oilers. He doesn't do relationships or commitments, he doesn't need the distraction.
Enter Brenna, the confident, witty, beautiful woman who captures his attention. Brenna doesn't do relationships for a whole other reason.
Brenna is headstrong and hard-working, something she has to be in order to work in her chosen field. She dreams of being a hockey sportscaster, which we come to find out is an incredibly sexist field. The men constantly degrade and ignore her, it was really icky to read, yet, it is reality.
I think they are really cute together. They both have very strong personalities, which could easily overpower a partner. I think this why I think they work - they balance each other out. I enjoyed the forbidden/secret aspect of their relationship. I didn't like the miscommunication/third act breakup, it was completely unnecessary. They had been so open with their communication then all of a sudden he just lets Hazel get in his head? Doesn't make sense.
The timeline for the book felt too short for me. All of this happened in a matter of weeks, maybe a month? I think that is why the ending and epilogue felt forced and lacking to me.
The side story of Hollis and Rupe was hilarious! I hope they get a book because it would be highly entertaining.
Tropes fake dating, hockey, forbidden, secret relationship, rivals to lovers, collegw
Content Warnings
Graphic: Addiction, Drug abuse, Miscarriage, Sexism, Sexual content, Grief, Death of parent, Injury/Injury detail
Minor: Mental illness, Car accident
The Chase by Elle Kennedy
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
After getting expelled from Brown, Summer transfers to Briar U and moves in with Dean's old teammates.
I really wanted to love this one. Tattooed nerdy hockey player? Check. Extroverted, bubbly girl to pull him out of his shell? Check. Throw in some forced proximity... Check and check. Unfortunately, it was not everything I wanted it to be. This is my least favorite of the Briar U universe so far.
I really loved Summer. I really enjoyed reading about how she navigates her ADD and learning disabilities, also seeing her learn to stand up for herself. Summer is the kind of girl who draws all the attention. She's bubbly, fun, and extroverted; she's the kind of person that sucks you into her orbit. That said, I did not like how she treated Hunter, I thought it was a really crappy thing of her to do to go out with him knowing how she felt about Fitz.
I really wanted to love Fitz. He's the one guy of all of them that intrigued me the most. He's not your typical cocky athlete, yes, he's a hockey player, but he's also quiet, introverted, geeky, and artistic. He was not at all the character I hoped he would be. He's honestly so unlikable through most of this book. He is so judgmental, pretentious, and rude to Summer. He can't articulate how he feels at all. We got this backstory that his parents put him in the middle of a messy divorce so he just shuts down. Come on, you're in your twenties. Grow up, get some therapy, and cut it with the miscommunication. Thankfully we see some growth in his character towards the end as he starts to open up a little bit.
What's the love triangle really necessary? I felt so bad for Hunter. He made his feelings very clear with both Summer and Fitz. Summer basically led him on and Fitz completely went behind his back. When Hunter got upset, Fitz didn't really care because " we're not really that good of friends anyways ". Total dick move. Hunter has every right to be pissed in this situation.
I honestly don't see how their relationship could realistically work past college. I feel like their relationship is based on lust and physical attraction, and not a lot of emotional connection. They're just way too different.
I hate that we did not get an epilogue. Where are they in the future? We need epilogues.
Tropes: love triangle, forced proximity, unrequited love, miscommunication, opposites attract, grumpy/ Sunshine, teammate sister
I really wanted to love this one. Tattooed nerdy hockey player? Check. Extroverted, bubbly girl to pull him out of his shell? Check. Throw in some forced proximity... Check and check. Unfortunately, it was not everything I wanted it to be. This is my least favorite of the Briar U universe so far.
I really loved Summer. I really enjoyed reading about how she navigates her ADD and learning disabilities, also seeing her learn to stand up for herself. Summer is the kind of girl who draws all the attention. She's bubbly, fun, and extroverted; she's the kind of person that sucks you into her orbit. That said, I did not like how she treated Hunter, I thought it was a really crappy thing of her to do to go out with him knowing how she felt about Fitz.
I really wanted to love Fitz. He's the one guy of all of them that intrigued me the most. He's not your typical cocky athlete, yes, he's a hockey player, but he's also quiet, introverted, geeky, and artistic. He was not at all the character I hoped he would be. He's honestly so unlikable through most of this book. He is so judgmental, pretentious, and rude to Summer. He can't articulate how he feels at all. We got this backstory that his parents put him in the middle of a messy divorce so he just shuts down. Come on, you're in your twenties. Grow up, get some therapy, and cut it with the miscommunication. Thankfully we see some growth in his character towards the end as he starts to open up a little bit.
What's the love triangle really necessary? I felt so bad for Hunter. He made his feelings very clear with both Summer and Fitz. Summer basically led him on and Fitz completely went behind his back. When Hunter got upset, Fitz didn't really care because " we're not really that good of friends anyways ". Total dick move. Hunter has every right to be pissed in this situation.
I honestly don't see how their relationship could realistically work past college. I feel like their relationship is based on lust and physical attraction, and not a lot of emotional connection. They're just way too different.
I hate that we did not get an epilogue. Where are they in the future? We need epilogues.
Tropes: love triangle, forced proximity, unrequited love, miscommunication, opposites attract, grumpy/ Sunshine, teammate sister
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexual assault, Sexual content, Grief