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Never Backing Off
I’m not the take-home-to-mama type of girl. I’m the sleep-with-then-dump-like-hot-trash-when-the-right-one-comes-along, type of girl.
I want to say this guy is different, but that may just be my delusion talking.
Emma
What’s worse than crashing face-first into a super-hot guy with gray eyes and a killer smile? Spilling scalding hot coffee all over yourself and said hot guy, then babbling incoherently because your brain has short circuited from all the hotness (from the guy, not the coffee). Not my greatest moment, I admit. Fortunately, I eventually regain my ability to speak and we end up completely hitting it off.
My sister tells me not to get excited because he is way too good to be true.
I really hope she isn't right.
Dante
You know that feeling when you meet someone, and you just click? Then you find out she’s the same girl your brother’s been crushing on for a year and you, in a moment of panic pretend you don’t know her, completely infuriating her to the point she stops speaking to you?
No? Just me then.
I should leave things as they are and stay far away from her, for both our sakes, but I’m tired of always doing what everyone tells me I should do.
This time, I’m going after what I want.
Never Backing Off is a spicy forbidden lovers college romance with no cliffhanger an a guaranteed HEA. It is book two in the Never U series but can be read as a standalone.
I want to say this guy is different, but that may just be my delusion talking.
Emma
What’s worse than crashing face-first into a super-hot guy with gray eyes and a killer smile? Spilling scalding hot coffee all over yourself and said hot guy, then babbling incoherently because your brain has short circuited from all the hotness (from the guy, not the coffee). Not my greatest moment, I admit. Fortunately, I eventually regain my ability to speak and we end up completely hitting it off.
My sister tells me not to get excited because he is way too good to be true.
I really hope she isn't right.
Dante
You know that feeling when you meet someone, and you just click? Then you find out she’s the same girl your brother’s been crushing on for a year and you, in a moment of panic pretend you don’t know her, completely infuriating her to the point she stops speaking to you?
No? Just me then.
I should leave things as they are and stay far away from her, for both our sakes, but I’m tired of always doing what everyone tells me I should do.
This time, I’m going after what I want.
Never Backing Off is a spicy forbidden lovers college romance with no cliffhanger an a guaranteed HEA. It is book two in the Never U series but can be read as a standalone.
228 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 2, 2023
112 people are currently reading
204 people want to read
About the author
C.R. Lee
9 books78 followersC. R. Lee is a writer of fantasy and romance filled with drama, humor and a whole lot of steam. She prides herself on creating troubled yet compelling characters, then putting them through hell for your entertainment.
You’re welcome.
But no matter how cruel she may be, rest assured, all of her books are guaranteed to have a HEA.
C. R. Lee currently lives in North Carolina with her husband, two children, two dogs, a cat, and a leopard gecko. When she’s not writing, she enjoys reading and drinking copious amounts of coffee-preferably at the same time.
You’re welcome.
But no matter how cruel she may be, rest assured, all of her books are guaranteed to have a HEA.
C. R. Lee currently lives in North Carolina with her husband, two children, two dogs, a cat, and a leopard gecko. When she’s not writing, she enjoys reading and drinking copious amounts of coffee-preferably at the same time.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
February 26, 2023
This is such a feel good book about digging below the surface and finding the real human underneath. I don’t think I’ve related to a male character more in all of my reading with Dante’s need to please everyone and not disappoint the people around him, no matter how uncomfortable that makes him. The supporting cast of the story is also pretty amazing being that they are so supportive and loving of each other. They all come together and dig their heels in when something is going on in their friends lives.
Emma had a tragic and unconventional childhood, growing up believing she’s trailer trash and busting her butt to make life better for herself and chasing her dreams. College has been anything but easy in the dating department. Everyone takes in her figure, pretty face, blonde hair, and coupled with the fact that she’s a theater major and people write her off as a bimbo or an airhead. No one sees the cool, nerdy girl who has so much to offer.
Dante has been pressured his whole life to be someone he’s not and lives in the shadow of his successful lawyer parents and his cool, jock older brother. He’s studying premed but his heart is in astronomy. When Emma bumps into him walking to class, he’s so lost to her. The more he gets to know her, the more he’s addicted to the Star Trek talking, romance reading, intelligent woman. He tries to keep his distance when he realizes Emma is the same girl his brother has been pining over, but it’s clear that Emma has no returned feelings for his brother and he decides to do this one thing for himself.
But as Dante tries to shield himself and others through lies and half-truths and Emma faces a fight to remain a student, will they ever be able to navigate through the tough stuff and have the relationship they are both so desperately wanting?
Emma had a tragic and unconventional childhood, growing up believing she’s trailer trash and busting her butt to make life better for herself and chasing her dreams. College has been anything but easy in the dating department. Everyone takes in her figure, pretty face, blonde hair, and coupled with the fact that she’s a theater major and people write her off as a bimbo or an airhead. No one sees the cool, nerdy girl who has so much to offer.
Dante has been pressured his whole life to be someone he’s not and lives in the shadow of his successful lawyer parents and his cool, jock older brother. He’s studying premed but his heart is in astronomy. When Emma bumps into him walking to class, he’s so lost to her. The more he gets to know her, the more he’s addicted to the Star Trek talking, romance reading, intelligent woman. He tries to keep his distance when he realizes Emma is the same girl his brother has been pining over, but it’s clear that Emma has no returned feelings for his brother and he decides to do this one thing for himself.
But as Dante tries to shield himself and others through lies and half-truths and Emma faces a fight to remain a student, will they ever be able to navigate through the tough stuff and have the relationship they are both so desperately wanting?
March 3, 2023
Dante and Emma
I'm glad Emma got her HEA. In book 1 I wasn't really feeling her but in this story we got to see and understand the real Emma. Emma is a bombshell. Guys always flocked to her because of her pretty face, curvy body, and blonde hair. She has always been seen as the hot chick to sleep with and have fun with. Nobody took the time to know Emma beneath the surface because in doing so you would find a funny, cool, nerdy girl who loves the theatre and obsessed with musicals.
Dante has always lived his life for others. Living his life trying to be someone he isn't. With parents who are cutthroat lawyers to being in his jock older brother Malcolm's shadow. That all changed the day he bumped into Emma. What started out as one of the best days of his life soon became one of his worst day simply because he found out that Emma is the girl his brother Malcolm has been crushing on.
Trying to keep their distance in an attempt to prevent any drama, Emma and Dante couldn't seem to keep their hands off one another. This couple faced some opposition and ages hurdles working to repeat them apart but when Emma found herself in a situation that could ruin her college career Dante was the man who had a plan and proved to Emma and everyone else that he would Never Back Off from protecting, and supporting the woman he loved.
I'm glad Emma got her HEA. In book 1 I wasn't really feeling her but in this story we got to see and understand the real Emma. Emma is a bombshell. Guys always flocked to her because of her pretty face, curvy body, and blonde hair. She has always been seen as the hot chick to sleep with and have fun with. Nobody took the time to know Emma beneath the surface because in doing so you would find a funny, cool, nerdy girl who loves the theatre and obsessed with musicals.
Dante has always lived his life for others. Living his life trying to be someone he isn't. With parents who are cutthroat lawyers to being in his jock older brother Malcolm's shadow. That all changed the day he bumped into Emma. What started out as one of the best days of his life soon became one of his worst day simply because he found out that Emma is the girl his brother Malcolm has been crushing on.
Trying to keep their distance in an attempt to prevent any drama, Emma and Dante couldn't seem to keep their hands off one another. This couple faced some opposition and ages hurdles working to repeat them apart but when Emma found herself in a situation that could ruin her college career Dante was the man who had a plan and proved to Emma and everyone else that he would Never Back Off from protecting, and supporting the woman he loved.
March 11, 2023
You've got to love this series. Emma and Dante's story of what at first glance appear to be a very unlikely couple.
I love the friendships between the group, how they can all bounce off each other personality wise, and the characters are totally believable. Love Emma's sister Kat - everyone needs someone like that in their life.
Emma and Dante certainly don't have an easy time of it in this story. They both have their parental issues, but in very different ways. Emma is always guarded about her upbringing, and you find out why. Dante also has the struggle of how to tell his brother that he has fallen for the girl he has had a crush on! A must read if you're into college romances with lots of angst 💕
I love the friendships between the group, how they can all bounce off each other personality wise, and the characters are totally believable. Love Emma's sister Kat - everyone needs someone like that in their life.
Emma and Dante certainly don't have an easy time of it in this story. They both have their parental issues, but in very different ways. Emma is always guarded about her upbringing, and you find out why. Dante also has the struggle of how to tell his brother that he has fallen for the girl he has had a crush on! A must read if you're into college romances with lots of angst 💕
February 17, 2023
I absolutely loved reading about Emma and Dante's journey even though it wasn't an easy one. They had to overcome unseen obstacles, both had issues they had to over come between themselves, family drama/issues to deal with and things seemed to not always go their way...does love conquer all? Detailed storyline that's well written and I love how you can escape into their college life for a bit and get lost in their story...oh the best part...it has KAT and she is up to her snarky antics AGAIN!! Gotta love KAT!! 😅😉❤ Wonder if she will get her story next???😲..You need to read this series...it will have you hooked from the start!!
I received this as an ARC and leaving my review voluntarily!
I received this as an ARC and leaving my review voluntarily!
March 4, 2023
4,75 ⭐
Never Backing Off is the second book of the Never U Series, but it can be read as a standalone. It's the second book from Courtney that I've read and I'm sooo happy I was in her ARC Team, because her writing is great and I love her stories.
The book is about the love between two college students, Emma and Dante. We get to know Emma in the first book and Dante is a new addition to the gang. The book's tropes are forbidden love and college romance. There are some trigger warnings, such as death of a parent, sexual harassment from teacher, alcoholic parent, pushy parents.
The plot is interesting and the smutty part is pretty great and spicy! I loved these scenes! I have to admit that in the first book, I didn't like Emma much, BUT in this one, I was pleasantly surprised. She was fierce, nice, cute and sassy. Dante was awesome. He was a handsome and attractive low key soft boy, who was a total nerd. He was interesting, strong, cute, nice, sweet and a great dirty talker. He knew what he was doing and I loved him!
Overall, I really liked this book and I totally recommend it! Can't wait for the next one!
Never Backing Off is the second book of the Never U Series, but it can be read as a standalone. It's the second book from Courtney that I've read and I'm sooo happy I was in her ARC Team, because her writing is great and I love her stories.
The book is about the love between two college students, Emma and Dante. We get to know Emma in the first book and Dante is a new addition to the gang. The book's tropes are forbidden love and college romance. There are some trigger warnings, such as death of a parent, sexual harassment from teacher, alcoholic parent, pushy parents.
The plot is interesting and the smutty part is pretty great and spicy! I loved these scenes! I have to admit that in the first book, I didn't like Emma much, BUT in this one, I was pleasantly surprised. She was fierce, nice, cute and sassy. Dante was awesome. He was a handsome and attractive low key soft boy, who was a total nerd. He was interesting, strong, cute, nice, sweet and a great dirty talker. He knew what he was doing and I loved him!
Overall, I really liked this book and I totally recommend it! Can't wait for the next one!
March 17, 2023
4.5 stars.
"There's a gravity between us, a current that buzzes along our points of contact and sets my heart fluttering."
Emma Chase is a beautiful and sexy theatre major, which makes people think of her in a certain way. She yearns for someone who sees beyond her looks. When she bumps into Dante Douglas on the first day of psych class, there's no denying the spark between them.
"He makes me feel...like I fit. I ache to be with him and when I'm with him, I ache for him to be closer."
Dante, bless him, is every kind of awkward. When it comes to women, he's always been in his brother's shadow, but finally someone he likes is interested in him back. Until he finds out that his Emma is the same Emma that his brother has been crushing on. The brother that he's keen to have a better relationship with.
"My girl. That's what she is. Mine. Malcolm's just going to have to deal with it."
I really felt for Dante in this story. He was gorgeous and thoughtful, and wanted to please everyone and not hurt anyone's feelings. In the process, he only hurt himself. I loved that Emma was the catalyst for him to speak up and do something to please himself. And, can I just mention how hot Dante was?! 🔥🔥 I'll be honest and say I had mixed feelings about Emma. I wasn't 100% keen on her in the first book and, in this book, I think she could have also worked harder to deserve Dante. She had issues but I felt she was also somewhat selfish, and she could have had a bit more empathy for Dante's situation. She never put herself in his place or questioned what she would have done if that had been about her and her sister, Kat, who she was super close to. Relationships are two-way streets, and I felt like if it wasn't her way, then it was no way.
Blog: https://readingwillingable.blogspot.c...
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/review/RVHRY2J...
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/reviews/22521...
"There's a gravity between us, a current that buzzes along our points of contact and sets my heart fluttering."
Emma Chase is a beautiful and sexy theatre major, which makes people think of her in a certain way. She yearns for someone who sees beyond her looks. When she bumps into Dante Douglas on the first day of psych class, there's no denying the spark between them.
"He makes me feel...like I fit. I ache to be with him and when I'm with him, I ache for him to be closer."
Dante, bless him, is every kind of awkward. When it comes to women, he's always been in his brother's shadow, but finally someone he likes is interested in him back. Until he finds out that his Emma is the same Emma that his brother has been crushing on. The brother that he's keen to have a better relationship with.
"My girl. That's what she is. Mine. Malcolm's just going to have to deal with it."
I really felt for Dante in this story. He was gorgeous and thoughtful, and wanted to please everyone and not hurt anyone's feelings. In the process, he only hurt himself. I loved that Emma was the catalyst for him to speak up and do something to please himself. And, can I just mention how hot Dante was?! 🔥🔥 I'll be honest and say I had mixed feelings about Emma. I wasn't 100% keen on her in the first book and, in this book, I think she could have also worked harder to deserve Dante. She had issues but I felt she was also somewhat selfish, and she could have had a bit more empathy for Dante's situation. She never put herself in his place or questioned what she would have done if that had been about her and her sister, Kat, who she was super close to. Relationships are two-way streets, and I felt like if it wasn't her way, then it was no way.
Blog: https://readingwillingable.blogspot.c...
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/review/RVHRY2J...
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/reviews/22521...
May 11, 2023
Emma Chase is looking for someone who doesn't just see her a a gorgeous girl with a great body. She is smart and is ready for someone to really take notice. Dante Douglas runs into Emma in psychology class and is instantly smitten. He assumes that there is no way this beautiful woman would take a second look at him, a pre-med student. Surprisingly their first meeting went well. Both were happy with the outcome until Emma and her friend Charlie ends up at Malcolm's apartment and finds out that Dante is Malcolm's brother. Problem: Malcolm has been trying to date Emma for a year. Dante was away last year studying abroad. Dante is back now trying to work on his strained relationship with his brother.
This book has a lot going on and will keep readers on their toes. Both Emma's and Dante's family life is less than ideal. Kat, Emma's sister, is still getting into stuff and bringing the funny. This book is definitely a rollercoaster ride for readers. So many factors, so many things that could go wrong and need to go right for this couple to make it. Will Dante be able to resist the pull from Emma to save his relationship with his brother?
Let me assure you, this review is just the tip of the iceberg of the stuff going on in the book. Readers will be on an emotional rollercoaster with this one.
This book has a lot going on and will keep readers on their toes. Both Emma's and Dante's family life is less than ideal. Kat, Emma's sister, is still getting into stuff and bringing the funny. This book is definitely a rollercoaster ride for readers. So many factors, so many things that could go wrong and need to go right for this couple to make it. Will Dante be able to resist the pull from Emma to save his relationship with his brother?
Let me assure you, this review is just the tip of the iceberg of the stuff going on in the book. Readers will be on an emotional rollercoaster with this one.
March 3, 2023
Dante and Emma
This is book two of this series, told in dual first person POV and my favorite one so far. I cannot wait for more of this series! The love and loyalty of this group of friends is amazing. I won’t lie, I was not a fan of Emma in book one, but this book has completely won me over. Although, Kat is still my favorite and I seriously cannot wait for her book. New people need to be added into this close group of friends because I’m not sure I’m ready for it to end any time soon!
I love Dante and his romantic self. I love how he was so caring, protective and supportive of Emma. I love that they both brought out the best of each other and their sexual chemistry was burning hot!
I received an advance reader’s copy via BookFunnel. This review is my own thoughts and opinions and left voluntarily.
This is book two of this series, told in dual first person POV and my favorite one so far. I cannot wait for more of this series! The love and loyalty of this group of friends is amazing. I won’t lie, I was not a fan of Emma in book one, but this book has completely won me over. Although, Kat is still my favorite and I seriously cannot wait for her book. New people need to be added into this close group of friends because I’m not sure I’m ready for it to end any time soon!
I love Dante and his romantic self. I love how he was so caring, protective and supportive of Emma. I love that they both brought out the best of each other and their sexual chemistry was burning hot!
I received an advance reader’s copy via BookFunnel. This review is my own thoughts and opinions and left voluntarily.
April 16, 2023
Hand Me the Tissues!!!!
This book is such a sweet continuation of the previous characters. I loved learning about the rest of the group and seeing the relationship between Dante and Emma was pure fairytale romance. There needs to be more knight in shining armour like Dante. I really look forward to seeing more into the other people of the group and keeping the stories going.
This book is such a sweet continuation of the previous characters. I loved learning about the rest of the group and seeing the relationship between Dante and Emma was pure fairytale romance. There needs to be more knight in shining armour like Dante. I really look forward to seeing more into the other people of the group and keeping the stories going.
February 26, 2023
The second book in the Never U series from C. R. Lee and another emotional roller coaster journey for wonderful, complete and complex characters.
Emma is the girl that every boy wants, but not to keep, just for one thing and she’s tired of it. She wants someone to see her and want more than just her body.
Dante is Mal’s younger brother, he’s busy always pleasing everyone but himself, he goes along with what his parents and everyone else wants to avoid disappointing them.
They literally run into each other on the first day of college and have an instant connection, that is until Dante finds out that Emma is the girl that Mal has been crushing on for a year and he makes a hasty and hurtful retreat.
People underestimate Emma, she is so strong and smart, a secret nerd but she’s also vulnerable and insecure. Dante is complex, a bit of a nerd with a secret black belt and a quiet demeanour, but also a penchant for stepping up against bullies despite his aversion to confrontation .
Both Emma and Dante find themselves when they’re together, a sense of security and the feeling of being seen for once. They face challenges and heartbreak, betrayal, sexual harassment, overbearing parents, complete family breakdown and a fight for justice before they can finally grasp onto the love that has been steadily growing between them for their HFN (they’re only young remember and we only get see four months ahead in the story 😉).
Looking forward to reading more of this series.
I received a free copy from the author and this is more honest review.
Emma is the girl that every boy wants, but not to keep, just for one thing and she’s tired of it. She wants someone to see her and want more than just her body.
Dante is Mal’s younger brother, he’s busy always pleasing everyone but himself, he goes along with what his parents and everyone else wants to avoid disappointing them.
They literally run into each other on the first day of college and have an instant connection, that is until Dante finds out that Emma is the girl that Mal has been crushing on for a year and he makes a hasty and hurtful retreat.
People underestimate Emma, she is so strong and smart, a secret nerd but she’s also vulnerable and insecure. Dante is complex, a bit of a nerd with a secret black belt and a quiet demeanour, but also a penchant for stepping up against bullies despite his aversion to confrontation .
Both Emma and Dante find themselves when they’re together, a sense of security and the feeling of being seen for once. They face challenges and heartbreak, betrayal, sexual harassment, overbearing parents, complete family breakdown and a fight for justice before they can finally grasp onto the love that has been steadily growing between them for their HFN (they’re only young remember and we only get see four months ahead in the story 😉).
Looking forward to reading more of this series.
I received a free copy from the author and this is more honest review.
March 9, 2023
Never Backing Off is the second book in the Never U Series by CR Lee. I really enjoyed the first book in the series, but went into this one hesitantly because Emma was not my favorite character in Never Moving On. I wasn't really sure how the author could redeem my opinion of her, however, I was pleasantly surprised with Emma's story. Although she is still not my favorite character, I feel after reading this one that I understand her a little better.
In this installment, we get a more in depth view of Emma and her upbringing. She has had a hard life and has overcome alot to be where she is today. She is gorgeous and is used to guys falling all over her for the wrong reasons. She longs to find someone that loves her for the person she is rather than how she looks. Enter Dante......a socially awkward hottie that just happens to be Malcolm's younger brother. As we learned in book 1, Malcolm has his eyes set on Emma, so the her attraction to Dante makes for a very complicated situation. Dante adores Emma from their first meeting and struggles with figuring out how to please everyone without losing the one girl he falls for.
This book is a quick, easy, and spicy read with a surprising amount of depth in the storyline. There are many issues addressed in this book that resonate with college life. Emma gets her happily ever after, but it takes several ups and downs before she gets there. I found her and Dante to be a good match for each other and really look forward to the path that Emma is on now.
In this installment, we get a more in depth view of Emma and her upbringing. She has had a hard life and has overcome alot to be where she is today. She is gorgeous and is used to guys falling all over her for the wrong reasons. She longs to find someone that loves her for the person she is rather than how she looks. Enter Dante......a socially awkward hottie that just happens to be Malcolm's younger brother. As we learned in book 1, Malcolm has his eyes set on Emma, so the her attraction to Dante makes for a very complicated situation. Dante adores Emma from their first meeting and struggles with figuring out how to please everyone without losing the one girl he falls for.
This book is a quick, easy, and spicy read with a surprising amount of depth in the storyline. There are many issues addressed in this book that resonate with college life. Emma gets her happily ever after, but it takes several ups and downs before she gets there. I found her and Dante to be a good match for each other and really look forward to the path that Emma is on now.
May 1, 2023
Book two of the Never U series was just as amazing as the first. In this book we journey with Emma and Dante, Malcom’s younger brother. Emma and Dante have a chance meeting in the quad at the college where they both attend. Her with coffee down her shirt and him with caffeinated legs, they head to class.
Just wanting to be friends, it is hard for Emma to go to Malcom’s apartment for his party he is throwing to introduce his little brother to his friends, because she doesn’t like him that way and she is afraid to give off the wrong signal.
Emma was still taken back by Dante and his broad shoulders and amazing eyes, that when she walked into Malcom’s apartment and saw him standing there, she was I shock. But when he acted like he didn’t know her, she felt like a fool.
Emma had to deal with a professor who let his power go to his head, he was the type of professor who thought he had all the power and the students held none. This was made clear one day while in his office after class. Things went down from there even though Emma declined his advances he did not like to take no for an answer.
When the chips were down Emma needed someone she could count on, she wanted it to be Dante but would the way she treated him reflect in his commitment? Would his love for her overcome everything? I could tell you, but then I would be keeping you from reading this amazing book!
You can read more about this book on our blog at: https://cuzweread.wordpress.com/2023/...
Just wanting to be friends, it is hard for Emma to go to Malcom’s apartment for his party he is throwing to introduce his little brother to his friends, because she doesn’t like him that way and she is afraid to give off the wrong signal.
Emma was still taken back by Dante and his broad shoulders and amazing eyes, that when she walked into Malcom’s apartment and saw him standing there, she was I shock. But when he acted like he didn’t know her, she felt like a fool.
Emma had to deal with a professor who let his power go to his head, he was the type of professor who thought he had all the power and the students held none. This was made clear one day while in his office after class. Things went down from there even though Emma declined his advances he did not like to take no for an answer.
When the chips were down Emma needed someone she could count on, she wanted it to be Dante but would the way she treated him reflect in his commitment? Would his love for her overcome everything? I could tell you, but then I would be keeping you from reading this amazing book!
You can read more about this book on our blog at: https://cuzweread.wordpress.com/2023/...
February 28, 2023
Emma is a college student with good looks. Unfortunately for her, most guys only want her because of that. Emma wants to find someone who sees her for her and loves her for what is inside. Dante is a guy who has trouble standing up for himself. He lives in the shadow of his older brother Mal, a football star, and of his parents, both successful lawyers. He is pushed into pursuing a career he doesn't want just so he doesn't have to rock the boat and stand up to them. All he wants is to find someone to love him for him.
Both Emma and Dante fall for each other after literally running into each other in the hallway. They see each other as the person who can finally see through that facade. Sounds great, right? Well unfortunately, it's complicated because Emna is the girl that Mal has also been crushing on.
Written from both character's point of view, the book takes us through their journey of love and pain as they navigate how to manage their lives all while falling deeper for each other. This book masterfully takes you through all of the emotions of each character and truly has you rooting for them.
I really enjoyed this book and believe you will not be disappointed with it either. While it is part of a series, it can be read as a stand alone as well.
Both Emma and Dante fall for each other after literally running into each other in the hallway. They see each other as the person who can finally see through that facade. Sounds great, right? Well unfortunately, it's complicated because Emna is the girl that Mal has also been crushing on.
Written from both character's point of view, the book takes us through their journey of love and pain as they navigate how to manage their lives all while falling deeper for each other. This book masterfully takes you through all of the emotions of each character and truly has you rooting for them.
I really enjoyed this book and believe you will not be disappointed with it either. While it is part of a series, it can be read as a stand alone as well.
February 28, 2023
This is one of my favourite reads By C.R. Lee!
Dante & Emma literally run into each other and there is chemistry from the start. Dante feels he's not too smooth with the ladies like is big brother, Malcom. Emma feels she isn't good enough for a nice guy to be really interested in her and not just looking for a good time. Soon Dante finds out that Emma is the girl his brother is pining for and tries to stay away, but having classes together and helping Emma navigate her way around a predatory professor, they can't deny each other any longer.
They have some yummy, steamy moments and some real heart to heart times also.
Malcom finds out about them and that puts a strain on the brotherly relationship and then Dante makes a bad decision that derails things for a while, but when Emma needds Dante the most, he pulls through and the brothers get to a good place again. I love the banter any time Emma's sister Kat is in the picture and love that they have charaters from previous books involved througout. This is a stand alone, but within the same universe as some previous works from C.B. (wich I really enjoyed also)!
Dante & Emma literally run into each other and there is chemistry from the start. Dante feels he's not too smooth with the ladies like is big brother, Malcom. Emma feels she isn't good enough for a nice guy to be really interested in her and not just looking for a good time. Soon Dante finds out that Emma is the girl his brother is pining for and tries to stay away, but having classes together and helping Emma navigate her way around a predatory professor, they can't deny each other any longer.
They have some yummy, steamy moments and some real heart to heart times also.
Malcom finds out about them and that puts a strain on the brotherly relationship and then Dante makes a bad decision that derails things for a while, but when Emma needds Dante the most, he pulls through and the brothers get to a good place again. I love the banter any time Emma's sister Kat is in the picture and love that they have charaters from previous books involved througout. This is a stand alone, but within the same universe as some previous works from C.B. (wich I really enjoyed also)!
February 18, 2023
I absolutely loved Emma and Dante together and their story was so lovely, I have to admit I was on the fence with Emma from book one as she dated Jacob when she knew Stella loved him and even though they sorted it out in book one I just thought real friends wouldn’t do that so I was wary of her.
She redeemed herself in this book and Dante was just absolutely gorgeously amazing for her, even though I agree with Malcolm in that he should have told him once he knew he was falling for Emma.
I would have liked to have seen an update on Emma & Kat’s Mom though and I also didn’t like Dante’s Mom as I thought she was one of those parents who have kids for their own status.
To a degree she was but she wasn’t as nasty as I thought she would have been towards Emma knowing she isn’t from a wealthy household and took Dante’s change in career better than I thought she would.
So I’m hoping we get Kat & Malcolm next and I’m sooo looking forward to their fireworks…. Add an evil mawhahaha here as they are going to be messy before happy and I can’t wait for them.
She redeemed herself in this book and Dante was just absolutely gorgeously amazing for her, even though I agree with Malcolm in that he should have told him once he knew he was falling for Emma.
I would have liked to have seen an update on Emma & Kat’s Mom though and I also didn’t like Dante’s Mom as I thought she was one of those parents who have kids for their own status.
To a degree she was but she wasn’t as nasty as I thought she would have been towards Emma knowing she isn’t from a wealthy household and took Dante’s change in career better than I thought she would.
So I’m hoping we get Kat & Malcolm next and I’m sooo looking forward to their fireworks…. Add an evil mawhahaha here as they are going to be messy before happy and I can’t wait for them.
March 1, 2023
WOW!!! Where do I even begin, this is the second book I read by C.R Lee and let me tell you it is not what I thought it would be. The twists and turns this book took had me blown away in a very good way.
We meet Dante in the beginning of the book and let me tell you that even though the MMC was not who I expected Dante stole a piece of my heart ❤️.
I really enjoyed reading about the characters from book one and I cannot wait for the third book. The character development for both Dante and Emma is worth reading.
“I just want to make you feel good.” ~Dante
Dante is everything you want in a book boyfriend. He’s good looking, possessive, dirty talking male. He’s funny and overall the makes you feel.
“I want you.” ~ Emma
Emma is funny, smart, beautiful, intelligent woman. During the first book we learn a little more about Emma and her past. How her mind makes he second guess herself.
Will Dante and Emma get their HEA?
Out March 2,2023 Available on Amazon and KU
Never Backing Off by C.R Lee is definitely a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
We meet Dante in the beginning of the book and let me tell you that even though the MMC was not who I expected Dante stole a piece of my heart ❤️.
I really enjoyed reading about the characters from book one and I cannot wait for the third book. The character development for both Dante and Emma is worth reading.
“I just want to make you feel good.” ~Dante
Dante is everything you want in a book boyfriend. He’s good looking, possessive, dirty talking male. He’s funny and overall the makes you feel.
“I want you.” ~ Emma
Emma is funny, smart, beautiful, intelligent woman. During the first book we learn a little more about Emma and her past. How her mind makes he second guess herself.
Will Dante and Emma get their HEA?
Out March 2,2023 Available on Amazon and KU
Never Backing Off by C.R Lee is definitely a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
May 23, 2024
The story of Emma and Dante is undeniably cute. While I'm not typically drawn to the instant love trope, I found it surprisingly endearing in this book. Both characters are grappling with their own personal struggles, and it's through their connection with each other that they find solace and understanding.
Of course, there's drama along the way, with Dante making a few stupid but typical "boys will be boys" mistakes. Yet, despite the bumps in the road, I was rooting for them to find their happily ever after, and I'm pleased that they did.
This installment was an emotional rollercoaster, albeit less intense than the first book in the series. I appreciated the continuation of the Never U universe and the opportunity to further explore the lives of all the characters.
Overall, this is a charming addition to the series, offering a heartwarming romance with just the right amount of drama to keep things interesting.
Of course, there's drama along the way, with Dante making a few stupid but typical "boys will be boys" mistakes. Yet, despite the bumps in the road, I was rooting for them to find their happily ever after, and I'm pleased that they did.
This installment was an emotional rollercoaster, albeit less intense than the first book in the series. I appreciated the continuation of the Never U universe and the opportunity to further explore the lives of all the characters.
Overall, this is a charming addition to the series, offering a heartwarming romance with just the right amount of drama to keep things interesting.
February 27, 2023
She did it again 😍😍
This book follows Emma and Dante, both misunderstood, judged and with mommy issues. They run into each other on campus and immediately hit it off! Emma is a bit reluctant because her looks normally get her a guys attention but they never want to actually see what’s under the surface. Dante is the golden boy who excels in school, but has a hard time standing up for himself when it comes to family.
What is this golden boy going to do when he quickly realizes the girl he can’t stop thinking about, is the girl his brother has been pinning over?
I will admit, I was a little disappointed when it wasn’t Emma and Malcom at first… but after getting to know Dante I absolutely fell in love 😍
This book follows Emma and Dante, both misunderstood, judged and with mommy issues. They run into each other on campus and immediately hit it off! Emma is a bit reluctant because her looks normally get her a guys attention but they never want to actually see what’s under the surface. Dante is the golden boy who excels in school, but has a hard time standing up for himself when it comes to family.
What is this golden boy going to do when he quickly realizes the girl he can’t stop thinking about, is the girl his brother has been pinning over?
I will admit, I was a little disappointed when it wasn’t Emma and Malcom at first… but after getting to know Dante I absolutely fell in love 😍
February 18, 2023
You can’t help who you fall for. This is the story of Emma and Dante. After meeting, there is no denying there was a connection. Unfortunately, Dante’s brother, Malcolm, had a thing for her. I wasn’t the biggest fan of Emma after the first story but this book shed some new light on her. They were both good for each other and really helped each other through some difficult situations. There was some romance, lots of steam, and a happy ending. I am really hoping we get a Kat and Malcolm story next.
February 19, 2023
I love these stories that showcase true human emotions. You know those stories that share the angst guys go through too when they like a girl and are just as unsure as the girl and how they are feeling? This is that kind of book. CR Lee writes these emotional books that make you feel for the FMC and MMC. I can promise I’ve gone through these kinds of ups and downs. Like your brother’s girl *check,* tough family life *check,check* and a group of friends that are closer than fam. If you love feel good books with angst but a HEA you need to check this book out!
February 23, 2023
I really enjoyed Dante and Emma's story.
It was also good to see some characters from the previous story.
Told in dual POV
This book definitely brought on lots of feelings.
There was drama, humor, angst and steam!
I loved the banter between the main characters and seeing their relationship change. Dante was probably my favorite of the two though. He has such a big heart, always thinking of others before himself. I do think together they both grew and fit perfectly.
I really enjoyed it!
It was also good to see some characters from the previous story.
Told in dual POV
This book definitely brought on lots of feelings.
There was drama, humor, angst and steam!
I loved the banter between the main characters and seeing their relationship change. Dante was probably my favorite of the two though. He has such a big heart, always thinking of others before himself. I do think together they both grew and fit perfectly.
I really enjoyed it!
April 28, 2023
I really really liked Dante, he was kind of a dork in his inner thoughts, totally funny. So far Mrs. Lee knows how to write a good character, especially men and women. Emma knew what she wanted and was so independent and just great, she was not a pushover, that’s for sure. Dante did not know what to do, get the girl or maybe destroy the newfound friendship with his brother. Kat was a Charakter, we get her story in the next book, can’t wait. All in all great story, great characters, great friendship, great HEA.
March 2, 2023
4.5 stars
Dante was such a sweet, people pleaser that he was a great contrast to Mal and typical book boyfriends. Despite this he can physically defend where needed, step up when needed and be an attentive & amorous lover as well.
More of the vulnerable side to Emma was shown when in previous books we only had glimpses.
My only niggle was not getting resolution around Emma and Kat's mum, but maybe that'll carry over into Kat's book, hopefully with Mal!
Dante was such a sweet, people pleaser that he was a great contrast to Mal and typical book boyfriends. Despite this he can physically defend where needed, step up when needed and be an attentive & amorous lover as well.
More of the vulnerable side to Emma was shown when in previous books we only had glimpses.
My only niggle was not getting resolution around Emma and Kat's mum, but maybe that'll carry over into Kat's book, hopefully with Mal!
May 16, 2023
I completed an ARC read of this book. This series brings you in to a world so realistic. The characters are fantastic. As the characters struggle to be seen and excepted by others the chemistry is off the charts. Mistakes are made. The love aparent among the characters. The writing style makes this book so relatable. Highly recommend this book. Expect, love, steamy moments, heartbrake, hard situations, laugh and cry.
Dont wait get this series and read it.
Dont wait get this series and read it.
April 28, 2024
I absolutely loved reading about Dante and Emma’s journey. Even though like most romances it wasn’t an easy one at all. This book is told in Duel first person point of view and I absolutely loved this couple. I totally love Dante and how romantic he is (swoon) . I love how is so caring, protective and supportive of Emma. I love that they both brought out the best of each other and their sexual chemistry was burning hot! 🥵 trust me this one you definitely want to add to your tbr!!!!
February 24, 2023
So Emma and Dante first meeting was hot literally due to hot drink disaster. Not to mention finding out who she is yikes. This awkward beginning turns into more as the story goes. It was a good easy read that held my attention. I recommend it. I am fairly new to the author but have enjoyed the couple books I have read.
February 27, 2023
Emma has had it rough growing up, and now here she is blond and beautiful with big b@@bs, which, of course, means she's an airhead, according to every man. Enter Dante, who is geeky and sweet and timid but secretly a bada$$. All he wants is to get to know her, the real her. I loved this story. Definitely worth the read.
February 15, 2023
I really like Emma & Dante's story. Actually, I LOVE it. There is something about how the characters and their actions are described, that makes their story feel "real". I loved their story from start to ending. I would also like to add... Did I sense something between Mal and Kat?!?!
February 27, 2023
This book gave me the warm fuzzies. It wasn’t all a bed of roses, of course there were struggles and conflict, but I have that happy warm feeling now.
Looking forward to the next story in this series.
Looking forward to the next story in this series.
February 28, 2023
This book was great! I loved the growth in both the fmc and mmc and how they learned to stand up for themselves! The plot was good and kept you involved in the story. I also loved seeing characters from the first books and hope to see more books in the series!
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