Beast

by Jay Crownover

Entre le bien et le mal, l’amour tente de survivre.

Ollie s’est toujours sentie prise au piège. Coincée entre Huck et Sawyer, les deux demi-frères ennemis du riche foyer au sein duquel elle a grandi. Cinq ans après le tragique accident qui a fait imploser cette famille, Ollie se tient sur le palier de Huck, un but bien précis en tête  : regagner sa confiance. Quoi qu’il lui en coûte. Et ce, malgré la haine qu’il semble encore lui porter et les sensations inattendues qu’elle éprouve à ses côtés…
Pour Huck, fuir est une question de survie. Fuir son passé, son demi-frère, sa famille. Aujourd’hui pourtant, il a enfin réussi à se construire une vie qui le satisfait. Mais une personne a le pouvoir de détruire cet équilibre en quelques secondes  : Ollie. Aussi, quand Huck la voit débarquer chez lui, il ne pense qu’à une chose  : se débarrasser d’elle… Ou peut-être se venger  ?

À propos de l'autrice
Tout comme les personnages de ses romans,  Jay Crownover   est une grande amatrice (et collectionneuse !) de tatouages. Lorsqu’elle a pris conscience qu’elle ne deviendrait pas la rock star qu’elle rêvait d’être depuis ses huit ans, elle a décidé d’embrasser son autre passion : l’écriture. Elle est l'autrice des séries à succès "Bad", "Marked Men"  et "Clash".

"Une histoire pleine de suspens, de rancoeur, de désir et de volonté de réussie sa vie. Ollie et Huck nous entraine dans une aventure intense dans une ambiance assez malsaine . On sent le danger qui plane même si on ne parvient pas à mettre le doigt dessus. C'est progressif et totalement addictif. C'est imprévisible et plein d'émotions." Un brin de lecture

"J'ai adoré l'ambiance assez spéciale, le stress permanent que quelque chose leur tombe sur la tête et le suspense concernant certains faits ! Le final est vraiment chouette et on les quitte avec un grand sourire aux lèvres !!" Les lectures de Mylène

"J'ai adoré l'histoire de Ollie et Huck car elle saura nous emmener sur des montagnes russes d'émotions et de retournements de situations." The Lovely Teacher Addictions

Genres: Romance, New Adult, Audiobook, Second Chance, College, Enemies To Lovers, Friends To Lovers

352 pages, Paperback

First published April 5, 2021

About the author

Jay Crownover is the International and multiple New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the Marked Men Series, The Saints of Denver Series, The Point and Breaking Point Series, and the Loveless, Texas series. Her books can be found translated in many different languages all around the world. She is a tattooed, crazy haired Colorado native who lives at the base of the Rockies with her awesome dogs. This is where she can frequently be found enjoying a cold beer and Taco Tuesdays. Jay is a self-declared music snob and outspoken book lover who is always looking for her next adventure, between the pages and on the road.
GUYS!!! I finally have a newsletter, so if you want to sign up for exclusive content and monthly giveaways you can do that right here:
https://www.jaycrownover.com/subscribe
You can email me at: JayCrownover@gmail.com

Reviews

[Ｄｒｅｙ · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 Stars!

... Just a right story.

This was a decent read with a decent storyline and decent characters. It was interesting at start but didn't live up to what I thought it would be. I put it off for several times because it became boring, and finished it for five days. Yes, I admit. I've been busy lately, but, still, finishing a 335 pages of book for almost a week isn't a good sign.

Note: This is a friends to lovers, second chance romance.

“It doesn’t matter what we change on the outside; who we are on the inside will always come through."

Ollie and Huck were best friends since then. Ollie's mother was a household helper and Huck's father was her employer. Ollie and Huck were both socially rejected kids. Both felt like they didn't belong, weren't important, and undeserving of attention and love. But, despite of the darkness, they had one another to shine light with. Until that one unfortunate day, when Ollie was obliged to sacrifice her happiness for the sake of someone she loved. She was only a kid. She had no idea then that her decision would be the biggest mistake of her life.

"... When we were together, everything felt like it was exactly the way it was supposed to be. It was a perfect fit. Not too big or too small. Not too hot or cold. Not too hard or too soft. Everything finally felt like it was just right."

There were certain departments that I felt were lacking in this book. I liked the circuitousness of the writing style because it added to the element of mystery in the story. However, I just couldn't quite connect with the story itself. The pacing was too fast for my liking, and I think it needs more depth. This is a second chance romance, and it should be angsty and emotional, but it ended up flat for me. Not to be harsh, but I didn't even shed a single tear. And besides, the chemistry between the main characters wasn't that intense and overpowering. It wasn't strong enough to hold my attention. It was "just right," whilst, however, my needs is something "more."

Overall, I liked the book. It was a very beautiful story that will definitely love by many. Unfortunately, not for me. There is nothing special about it that I can and will always keep in my heart, and proudly shout out from the rooftops. Personally speaking, this book needs a "secret special ingredient" that would make it something unique and unforgettable. It has a great potential to be a worldwide blockbuster. Just a little bit more but right push!

“Just call me Goldilocks. Not just because we had the same hair, but because I’d been bouncing around all the wrong places until I realized the only spot that was ‘just right’ was right next to the boy glaring at me like he wanted me to drop dead on the spot."

[Dilek VT]

Here's another book I am looking forward to...
Its release day is updated to April 15.

*********************************************

I have been so disappointed in all the books I have read recently. So please God, let this one be a winner... Pretty please 🙏🙏🙏

[Dali · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jay Crownover’s latest offering is a heartbreaking story of revenge, hope and love.

Originally told one chapter at a time in her newsletter (if you’re not subscribed I suggest you do it now!), Goldilocks is the finished and compiled story of two brothers, the heir and the bastard who both loved the same girl.

Olivia Adams grew up under the roof a very wealthy family where her mother worked as a housekeeper and nanny of the two boys. Sawyer Richman: the spoiled and entitled heir who made her mother do grueling work to keep Olivia under his thumb and Huck Snyder the illegitimate half-brother and her best friend up until the night that changed their lives forever.

Huck had spent his life as an outcast in his own home. Ignored by his father, resented by his step-mother and hated by his half-brother. The only person who ever made him feel worthy was Ollie. He was her protector until he was exiled from his home because Ollie chose Sawyer after an almost fatal accident.

It took Huck five years to leave his past behind and build a new life with his new chosen brothers. Until Olivia manages to somehow escape and infiltrate his life once more. But is she really free? Can Huck forgive her betrayal?

I was immediately hooked by the book’s prologue. I felt both Huck and Ollie’s heartache and their attraction even when Huck couldn’t find it in him to forgive her. As the story develops I enjoyed how the two work their way from enemies to lovers, though Huck’s change of heart was a bit too quick.

The mystery that was inserted gave the story a thrilling layer and the supporting characters where so likeable I hope they get their own stories.

Goldilocks is a standalone college romance by Jay Crownover. It is told from both points of view with a happy ending. Genres: new adult romance | college romance. Tropes: friends to lovers | enemies to lovers

Amazon -> https://amzn.to/3aoebdn

★ I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via InkSlinger. The excerpts are from that copy. I am voluntarily reviewing this title. ★

See all my book edits on Instagram ★ FaceBook ★

[Three Chicks · Rating 3 out of 5]

Review by Trinette Dungee

Two brothers, one the prodigal son, one the bastard son, both under a spell by the same girl.

Olivia Adams, with her golden curly locks, just wants to find a place in the world where she fits. Growing up on an estate where her mother worked for the very affluent Richman family, she enjoyed the perks of a roof over her head, food in her belly and the best school, but she was not a true part of that world. What helped her get through her early years was Huck Snyder, the illegitimate son of Mr. Richman. He was her best friend, at least he was until the day she chose his half-brother Sawyer. A choice that proved to be the worst mistake of her life, and kept her under the thumb of an unstable, obsessive control freak. Ollie has finally managed to break away from Sawyer and she runs straight to Huck, but the Huck she once knew is long gone and this new version wants nothing to do with her.

Huck Snyder has spent his entire life as an outsider. Abandoned by his mother, he was raised in his father’s home alongside his half-brother who envies him and hates him. His stepmother resents him and hates him. His father simply ignores him. The only person that’s ever made him feel worthy is Ollie. While he’s always served as her protector, she’s what kept him grounded. Until the day when an almost fatal accident has her choosing Sawyer over him. Cast away from the only home he’s ever known, Huck spends the next few years building his new life. He’s estranged from his blood family, but he’s found another family the fits him better. He has done everything he could to move on with his life and his past until Ollie shows up on his doorstep.

I’m not a fan of love triangles, or angst and this book kind of had both. The triangle in this book is slightly different because you really only experience two-thirds of the triangle. The final third of the triangle is mostly referred to. This was a quick read, but I struggled a bit with it because it wasn’t quite what I thought it was going to be, or what I’m used to from Jay Crownover, but that’s more of a “me” thing and has nothing to do with Jay. While I figured it wouldn’t be like her other series, I thought it might be more along the lines of “Recovered”. It wasn’t too far off from it though.

It’s not often the title of a book has much of an impact on me regarding the storyline, but for this particular one…the two just didn’t fit for me. The storyline in general was pretty good, and I was immediately sucked in; but at some point, it took a bit of a turn that didn’t quite hold my interest. The story starts off with Ollie tracking Huck down and attempting to become a roommate in a house that he shares with his best friend and Huck’s total disdain for her due to an incident in their past. He insists that her presence is nothing good and can put them all in danger; and that fine, because it gives way to the element of mystery.

Then there's Ollie, who is determined to make amends with Huck, and basically insinuates that she’s afraid for her life. Again, totally fine because that adds to the mystery. Where it gets difficult for me is the revelation of the big incident and the domino effect it has- specifically Ollie; it’s like Huck’s attitude towards her changes too quickly and things kind of happen at a rapid speed from that point on. I liked the “who-done-it” element of the story line, but I felt like the resolution and ending were a bit rushed.

I actually liked the characters. I immediately connected to Huck and I felt like the chemistry between he and Ollie was really good (even when Huck was hating on her), and I was happy that it was told from both the POV's of Huck and Ollie. Something I always enjoy, are the supporting characters that contribute to the storyline and are interesting enough that you begin to wonder about their back story. Definitely loved Vernon. Harlnn seemed like a pretty interesting guy, but I could have used a little more background on him. I’m even curious about the former roommate Fisher. I wasn’t all that crazy about Ollie’s friend Mercer, but she wasn’t horrible.

I’m a big Jay Crownover fan, and I think I’ve read pretty much all of her books. While this isn’t my favorite, I still enjoyed it.

Something that gave me much amusement throughout the book, and I’m not sure if it was intentional or not but; Huck, and his brother Sawyer…. mortal enemies. Tom Sawyer, and Huckleberry Finn…. best buds.

[♡Julalicious Book Paradise♡ · Rating 3 out of 5]

I had started Goldilock when Jay first added it to her newsletter, but then my reading slump was back again, and I was so far behind that I decided to wait until it came out in paperback. Then, of course the reading slumps were quite there often, but now that I can seem to get back into reading mode, I finally decided it was time I read it.

I will admit that even though I did enjoy the book, I didn’t enjoy it quite as much as Jay’s other books. I think that the story between Ollie and Huck was just not working for me. I think that perhaps I wasn’t as attached to these two so it was hard to connect with their story.

I don’t know if it’s because other characters seemed more interesting than these two that it made it hard to really attached myself to them. I mean, Vernon and Harlen for one thing were two characters I wanted to get to know more and I wouldn’t mind if one day Jay revisited just to write about them. Even Mercer had a little something that made her more interesting.

But of course, not all characters can capture your attention so unfortunately, Ollie and Huck took a step back behind these secondary characters.

But like I said before, I still enjoyed the book a lot and even if it’s not my favourite, I am sure that other people could really connect with Ollie and Huck and love their story a lot more than I did.

[Ptiteaurel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Goldilocks avait été publié dans la newsletter de Jay Crownover et chaque mois nous pouvions découvrir un chapitre. Je n'avais pas lu à l'époque donc je suis partie à la découverte de ce nouveau roman sans savoir dans quoi je me lançais. J'ai adoré l'histoire de Ollie et Huck car elle saura nous emmener sur des montagnes russes d'émotions et de retournements de situations.

je me suis régalée avec cette romance de Jay Crownover. La couverture est magnifique et reflète complétement la noirceur de cet univers et de certains personnages. Une fois de plus, j'ai passé un excellent moment avec cette histoire qui saura nous happer du début à la fin car la tension narrative n'est pas prête de redescendre.

https://thelovelyteacheraddictions.bl...

[Karen's Utterly Unashamed · Rating 4 out of 5]

"You know, without Goldilocks, the bears lived a pretty boring life alone in the woods. They had each other, but they needed her to shake things up so they had a story to tell."

Huck, Sawyer, Vernon, Harlan, Mr. Peters-all characters in this tangle of a story and Olivia(Ollie) would be the one to shake them all up.

I don't want to tell too much. It is a romance, a second chance friends to enemies to lovers story with mystery, suspense, attempted murder, psychiatric hospitals, jail, a car wreck, thunderstorms and an awesome little old man.

"When it came down to it, the girl was just as desperate as I was. It was exactly what drew us together all those years ago. We were desperate to be understood. Desperate to be free. Desperate to be loved...And we only managed to find any of that with each other."

Ollie and Huck knew each other as kids, they tried to protect each other from the wrath of the rich and powerful but Sawyer scammed and bribed and extorted a young girl not with money but with everyone she loved. She wasn't old enough or wise enough to know how to escape the money and power of the family that employed her mother.

Ollie finds her way back to Huck but the path will not be easy and Huck may not be able to forgive her for the life she made him live. But really...did he ever actually live in a world without her.

"She was equally cute and sexy. She had a charm that was all her own, and it got to me deep and fast. She wasn't a girl every guy would understand or have the patience for, but I wasn't the kind of guy who was simple and easy either."

Instagram | My Blog | Facebook

[Jenn the Readaholic · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh, boy. Huck and Ollie had quite the tale to tell, and it was a doozy. Because what else can it be when once-friends are now nothing but tangled masses of betrayal and hurt?

At first, Huck’s callousness and cruel thoughts made me consider hating him, but his inability to leave Ollie to her own misery and fears showed the crack in his tough guy armor. Once he found out just how wrong he was about their past, nothing was going to keep him from making Ollie safe, secure, loved, and HIS, once and for all. But he had to contend with Ollie’s guilt and sorrow before he could win the girl.

As for Ollie, every breath she took for years was full of desperation and the pain of knowing how she wronged the only person she ever loved or felt safe with. And she was determined to make him believe that she was truly sorry. She just didn’t expect that he would ever feel anything more than anger or disgust for her again, so it’s a little difficult for her to believe that she’s worthy of Huck’s forgiveness and love.

These two learned a few lessons the hard way and found out that not all is as clear-cut as it seems. Who is out to destroy everything? Who hates or loves so corruptly that they’ll stop at nothing to get what they feel is justified revenge? These questions kept me guessing so many times while reading this book. And this author proved her mastery at weaving a tale that tosses you on your ear more than once before the story is fully told.

Yet again, Jay has given readers something completely unexpected. Amid a bit of worry and vengeance, Goldilocks feels a tad hopeless and dark around the edges at times, but it’s perfectly balanced with the strong bonds of family by choice that this author brings to her books. And while you get glimpses of fantasy or fairy tale thoughts, there are no magical deeds here. There’s just a whole lot of love, history, and the healing that love can bring to characters. Sometimes, that makes the story even better in the end.

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

When pain shapes your life, the heart becomes hardened to anything that inspires love. For Ollie – the pain comes from the knowledge that she hurt the person she loved so deeply. This was the catalyst that fueled Ollie to prove to Huck that her soul was full of regret.

Huck was entitled and torn over the past. What he didn’t realize was that nothing was the way he perceived it to be. The things Huck thought he knew were incorrect. Now – he was determined to keep Ollie safe. That determination fueled Huck to break through the sorrow and shame. To fight for Ollie in a way that showed her the depth of love.

Nothing for this duo is as it seems. Destruction is lurking, but who is at the bottom of it all? Jay Crownover has once again tackled a unique story plot that will balance love and revenge. Goldilocks is the culmination of that journey for Huck and Ollie. Discover that journey…..one of hope, love and the search for that happy ending.

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

The prologue and the very first line of chapter 1 got me hooked immediately!! The beginning of this book was so well written that I knew I’d finish the book in one day.

Olivia and Huck’s story is a beautiful tragedy that has a beautiful ever after. The turmoil, terror and utter ugliness that Ollie and Huck have to go through is heartbreaking, but so well written. Goldilocks is a story that Jay wrote in parts for her newsletters. I learned with Downfall that I couldn’t wait for the next months newsletter to get another piece of the story. So while I still get her newsletters, I skipped over Goldilocks, purposely waiting to be able to read it all at once, all the parts together. It was hard to not give in. I love Jay Crownover’s books and her ability to write different stories and troupes, and Goldilocks is definitely in the top 10 of my favorite books by her.

My favorite quote from Goldilocks:
There was no redo button for the past, so we had to live with all of the faults as well as the things we were most proud of. - Huck

Goldilocks is a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 100%

[Delia · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars!

It was a great book but a bit rushed. I wish it could have read more... more romance, more suspense and mystery, more angst, more of the supporting characters. After I finished this book I felt like something is missing...

Jay's love stories are always so deep and complex and maybe that's why my expectations were a bit higher for this book.

Overall, it is a great book, very engaging! I've read ALL of Jay's books; I am a big fan and cannot wait for Fortunate Son.

[Evie_Book_Revs *Evie Book Reviews* · Rating 5 out of 5]

Modern-day Goldilocks with Sizzle and Suspense!

“The enemy of my enemy had always been the best, and only, friend I’d ever had.” - Ollie

In this standalone, New Adult suspense romance, Olivia “Ollie” Adams is the modern-day Goldilocks. Ollie takes “finding the right fit” to a new path; one of which requires her to face the past. As Ollie finds herself running towards a better future, she leaves behind unfinished relations and makes way back to her childhood best friend turned enemy—Huck Snyder.

“I was supposed to be an iceberg these days. She reminded me of the times when I was full of fire.” - Huck

Huck is by all accounts, the guy who will always protect those he loves, including one who may have betrayed his trust; but the heart wants what it wants, and nothing will stand in the way of retribution and loyalty. Or will it?

“The plan had been to ruin her, not to be ruined by her.” - Huck

If you have been waiting for this final edition of Huck and Olivia’s story, then you will find the angst-riddled story satisfying and complete! 🖤

“After all, everything between us was about balance and a little bit of give and take, push and pull.” - Huck

*BONUS: For those who have read one of the earlier series’ published by the author, Marked Men, there is an extended introduction to a next-generation Marked Men novel—Fortunate Son—featuring Rule’s son and Jet’s daughter! I am super excited for this new series, coming very soon!🔥

I reviewed an ARC voluntarily, and look forward to future novels by the author.

[Pam Nelson · Rating 3 out of 5]

I started this book when it came out in paperback but I got about 5 chapters from the end and never finished it.

So when I saw the audiobook come out I had to grab it.
I don’t really have a lot to say, I enjoyed the story and I am glad it wasn’t predicable. I liked that I thought it was going to go one way and was pleasantly surprised it didn’t.
I wasn’t more of the roommate’s but from what Jay said on a post she doesn’t think she will write more in this series.
Great narration it was perfect for this book.

[KDRBCK · Rating 5 out of 5]

Goldilocks by J. Crownover is a full length stand-alone romance novel. The story was - chapter by chapter - newsletter published .
Olivia Adams never fit in. She was raised rich, but grew up poor. A tragic accident changed her whole life.
Huck Snyder is a poor rich boy. Grew up rich, spoiled and entitled.
Now all are college students and are in for a big surprise.
Goldilocks is a tearjerking pageturner. An intense read about outsider, grewing up, finding love and a hfn - happy for now.
An excellent read, 5 stars.

[Brittany Duncan · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was a perfect fit. Not too big or too small. Not too hot or cold. Not too hard or too soft. Everything finally felt like it was just right.

I absolutely adored this book! I am a huge fan of every book Jay Crownover has written and this one did not disappoint. Huck and Ollie experience trauma and betrayal but are able to come together at the end in the perfect spot where they fit together. This book also introduced the personally built family dynamic between Huck, Vernon, Harlen, and Fisher which is amazing and I hope to be able to read more about them in the future.

[Tripip · Rating 2 out of 5]

Jay Crownover is an auto click author for me. When she released Goldilocks, I was eager to read it.
Unfortunately, I didn’t really connect with Goldilocks/Ollie. I like my female main characters to be badass and I felt that Goldilocks was too meek and needy. Granted she probably felt she had to take on unassuming persona given her history with the evil element in the story. However, this seemed to carry over into her relationship with Huck. I felt like she was always catering to someone else’s whim or getting railroaded into doing something other than what she wanted.
I’m intrigued with Huck’s friends; Vernon and Harlan although I would have liked to have seen more of Harlan. The added evil element regarding Mercer’s secret boyfriend seemed forced. An interesting read but not my favorite.

I received a free copy from the author. This is my unbiased review.

[Karen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Loved some parts. Others were meh.

Huck is a fabulous name for a book character! Huck and Ollie are childhood best friends. He’s the bastard son. She’s the daughter of the help. His half brother, is jealous of Ollie and Huck’s relationship and will do everything to destroy it.

Ollie is desperate to get forgiveness for a mistake she made. Huck doesn’t want to forgive her. Oh yes, this is what I love. He hates her, she loves him, there’s a misunderstanding. Oh and he has pierced nipples! Yes, yes, yes, this.

He has house mates to fit the baby bear and another bear, I can’t decide if Harlen is daddy or mummy, but hey ho, 3 bears, tick. Didn’t really think some of the book added anything to the story but no spoilers.

It’s a good book. 3 is a good book. Also must point out it ended at 86% the rest is fluff.

[Kiss And Tell Book Blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kiss and Tell Book Blog www.kissandtellbookblog.wordpress.com

Strong Male Lead: 💋💋💋💋
Huck Snyder is edgy, effortlessly gorgeous, and determined to live his own life. He grew up a outcast and bastard to a wealthy man and he was treated as such since his half-brother (mother married to the rich father) was only a few months apart in age. Huck learned the hard way that in order to survive you have to create your own worth and not gain it from others. He marched to the beat of his own drum, then and now. Huck is fiercely loyal to those he cares about and will go to the ends of the earth to protect them. He hasn’t had it easy but managed to find a family of cronies like him. Huck thought he was living the picturesque single, male college life but he wasn’t truly enjoying it. He was a dormant volcano, simmering until something sets him off. Once he erupts, he burns hot.

Strong Female Lead: 💋💋💋.5
Olivia Adams has been through it all growing up. She grew up in a rich family’s home as the housekeeper’s daughter. Even though she was afforded the high class education and boarding, Olivia was not viewed as human but a toy. Something to be possessed, manipulated and not shared. She is a little above average in looks but always puts the people she cares about before herself. By the time she is 19, she is broken and shell of her former vibrant self. Olivia finally allows herself to choose freedom when her mother dies. It isn’t an easy road to escape the confines of her imprisonment, nor is it easy for her to start to rebuild who she wants to be. The reader sees her grow and make difficult decisions throughout the story. Olivia learns not only who she wants to be but has the strength to stand on her own to do it.

Plot: 💋💋💋💋
This wasn’t an ordinary, predictable romance. There was darkness and speculation of who was involved and what would happen. The story not only kept you in suspense about who was really the villain, but it told a great story of a broken girl finding her feet again and a numb boy finding his passion for life and love. I wish there were flashbacks to Olivia and Huck’s childhood instead of them retelling what happened. I feel like this would have allowed the reader to become more involved emotionally in their story. I felt like some really hard things were said but I didn’t have the emotional connection or “jab me in the hear” because I was being told and not living through it with them.

Steamy Factor: 💋💋💋.5
Steamy scenes a plenty! I’m not a huge fan of explicit detail so I have a tendency to breeze through some sexy scenes. These parts weren’t graphic by any nature but did leave you visualizing and crossing your legs. If you enjoy some “smut” but nothing to “over-the-top” this book is the balance you are looking for.

Overall: 💋💋💋💋
This wasn’t my favorite book of Jay’s but it was still very engaging, did a great job of creating suspense and keeping the reader on their toes. Throughout the book, I thought I knew what had happened or what will happen but I was rarely correct. I appreciated this, as many books can be predictable. I found the story to flow nicely and kept me wanting to read. It was a quick and easy read but had some heavy content. Grooming, emotional abuse, and the rich always winning out is very present in the story and shapes the characters into who they become. It makes you appreciate this is a work of fiction but only to realize this could very much be a true story. That to me is heartbreaking.

[Sharrice · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blog tour link: https://reesesreviews.blogspot.com/20...

I have to say I was laughing at myself when I started this book. Why? Because I had just been thinking about this story and couldn't remember the author or if I had finished it. Surprise, I hadn't finished it. I had started this story while reading Jay Crownover's newsletter and then I must have forgotten about the story. Needless to say, I was excited the story I forgot was written by the amazing Jay Crownover and that I did finally get to finish the story.

Ollie is on the run from her past. She betrayed her best friend and the boy she was in love with by blaming him for an accident that left his half-brother paralyzed. Huck lost everything and so did Ollie. Now, years later Ollie is running back to Huck in hopes that he'll provide her the protection she needs from her past. She didn't expect Huck to have changed so much, to hate her so much, or for the simmering attraction that's constantly buzzing between them.

Huck has been through a lot and has finally dug his way up from the hole Ollie and his family left him in. He's in college, working, has a house, and is living with his closest friends. He doesn't need the reminder of the past and coming face-to-face with Ollie is a huge unwanted blast from the past. Huck does everything he can to shove Ollie from his life. He doesn't expect the attraction, the anger, or fuzzy feelings, because he is sure he's over everything that happened.

I really enjoyed Goldilocks. From beginning to end I loved the story and I hope to read more about the characters. Ollie and Huck both make a huge amount of growth that is always a huge plus for me when I'm reading. I'm a sucker for a Jay Crownover story and I can't wait to see what she writes next.

Goldilocks is a definite must-read with great pacing, amazing story-telling, a unique story, relatable characters, loads of sexy scenes, and loads of character growth.

[Nikki · Rating 4 out of 5]

⎯» Rating: 3.75 Stars

⎯» Genre(s): Contemporary Romance

⎯» POV: Dual—First Person

❥

“When we were young, the world was too small, too tight, and too confining.

When we got a bit older, it seemed too big, too vast, too scary.

Now, when we were together, everything felt like it was exactly the way it was supposed to be. It was a perfect fit. Not too big or too small. Not too hot or cold. Not too hard or too soft. Everything finally felt like it was just right.”

❥

I loved the characters in this story, and thoroughly enjoyed the plot. Ollie and Huck’s journey was engaging, keeping my interest until the very end. However, I do wish that Vernon and Harlen had their own book!

❥

⎯»Extra Information

❖ Series or Standalone:

Standalone

❖ HEA:

Yes

❖ Cliffhanger:

No

❖ Relationship:

M-F Romance

❖ Tropes:

➢ Friends-to-Enemies-to-Lovers
➢ Childhood-Friends-to-Lovers
➢ Former-Best-Friends
➢ College Romance
➢ Forced-Proximity/Roommates
➢ Reconciliation Romance
➢ Son of Billionaire w/ Help’s Daughter
➢ Hero is Bastard Son
➢ Heroine is Housekeeper’s Daughter
➢ Heroine Betrayed Hero
➢ Hero is Disowned
➢ Evil Half-Brother and Step-Mom
➢ Heroine Seeking Hero’s Forgiveness
➢ Heroine Running from Past
➢ Tortured Hero/Heroine

❖ Triggers:

emotional abuse, mild physical abuse, toxic relationships, ptsd, suicidal ideation

❥

[NICUnurse Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s no secret that Jay Crownover is one of my favorite authors. She had me at Rule years ago, and I’ve never looked back. (If you haven’t read her Marked Men series, drop what you’re doing and read them all…like right now!) Needless to say, she’s also one of my automatic 1-click authors. And I’ve been not-so-patiently waiting for Ollie and Huck’s story for quite some time. She initially debuted this book as serial chapters in her newsletter, and I read the first few chapters. As the story unfolded, I knew I wanted to read it as a book more than wait for each chapter once a month, so I stopped reading it for a while. I’m very glad I did because this story was more than worth the wait. It’s a sort of friends to enemies to lovers second chance romance with some suspense thrown in for good measure. My heart broke for both Ollie and Huck repeatedly, and in the end, my heart was still not quite 100%, but it had hope for a true HEA for their future. (NOTE: this book ends with a HEA and no cliffhanger, but it’s not quite the HEA you might want to see in an epilogue. It wraps the story up nicely but with possibilities.)

The thing I like most about Jay is that she writes what she wants to write and when she wants to write it. But when she does write, her words never fail to suck me into the story, and nine times out of 10, I can’t put it down until it’s all said and done. Goldilocks was no different. If you’re looking for a book with some suspense, lots of emotion, a hefty serving of angst, and a nice dollop of steamy scenes, you’re not going to want to pass this book up!

NICUnurse’s Rating: I give Goldilocks by Jay Crownover 5 out of 5 stars!

[Katie Koziczkowski · Rating 4 out of 5]

I finally got back to Goldilocks after forgetting that I had never finished it once the final version came out. I reread the whole thing since it's been quite a while and I wanted to remember everything that happened. I really enjoyed this book! The storyline is very intriguing and keeps you sucked into it. It's filled with lots of emotion, a little humor, steam, and some surprises. I liked Ollie right from the start. I felt so bad for her with what she's been through and how she's been treated. She deserves to be happy and to feel safe and loved. She's already a strong individual, but I was proud of the growth that she makes by the end of the book to become even stronger. Huck is definitely an interesting character. I will openly admit that I did not like him right away at the beginning, for obvious reasons once you've read the book. After a while though he gets better and I liked him a lot from there on out. He has also been through a lot and has been treated quite poorly, so I really felt for him as well. He's a good guy at heart, his past has just made him see things differently and not always be the best version of himself. I love how protective he is of Ollie and how much he cares for her. They're clearly meant to be together after everything they've been through and I'm so happy they found each other again. I also loved Vernon! He was a great side character and I loved how he took Ollie under his wing. I really hope that he will get his own story one day, that would make me very happy!

[Trader (RedHotBlueReads) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Olivia Adams has finally tracked down Huck Snyder, the man she was forced to betray and the man she's loved all her life. Only one problem -- he's not in a place to give her forgiveness or even a room to rent. He's still angry and rightfully so, but he doesn't know the whole story and Ollie is there to apologize and clue him in on what really happened that night everything went south.

It takes a while, but Huck gradually lets Ollie back into his life and when she feel threatened in the house they live in, he does what his heart wants and takes her under his protection and into his bed.

But the danger isn't over yet, and when Ollie's friends are involved, Huck steps up and does some investigating of his own to uncover why Ollie is still being stalked.

While there weren't any big surprises in this New Adult novel, there was a nice level of tension as Huck and Ollie figure out what and who is behind everything that is happening. Goldilocks is a nice mashup of romantic suspense and just plain romance as Huck and Ollie navigate to where their hearts want to be.

Goldilocks is a tale of money and privilege and just how much those two things can warp your mind. This is a quick read with a HFN ending that can satisfy both romantic suspense readers and readers of college-age romance. This is a standalone title.

[Aliama · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! I first read this through Jay’s monthly newsletter. I loved it then but it was even better now. This is the story about Ollie/ Olivia and her best friend Huck and his half brother Sawyer. Ollie grew up poor in a rich household where one brother was given everything and the other nothing. Ollie and Huck had a connection as kids that was severed by a tragic accident. Years later Ollie is finally out from under the evil household and trying to live her life. She has apologies to make and some growing up to do but she can only do it with Huck by her side. The question is, will he believe the price she had to pay when she didn’t side with him? This was such an emotional roller coaster read. There were high points and low points and twist and turns everywhere. Ollie and Huck had a connection and chemistry that neither one could explain after everything that happened to them. They just knew that ‘they fit just right’. A recommended read. I received an arc copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Darcy · Rating 3 out of 5]

I didn't read this as the author wrote it, so this was my first exposure to the story. I wasn't really sure what to think as things opened up. Was a bit leery of Ollie, really hoped she wasn't up to no good. Turns out Ollie had reason to do what she did to get into the house and be close to Huck. I was stunned when it all came out, stunned more when Huck found out and how he reacted. So much bad, by bad people, while the good suffered. With things out the in the open things were so much better for Ollie and Huck, both were able to remember the good times and make new good times. Just when it seemed like life was going to be great for Ollie she discovered that if it weren't for bad luck she'd have no luck. Twice people from her past came back after her, but she and Huck were able to take care of them.

I really liked how this one ended, liked that Ollie and Huck are living their lives happy.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jay never disappoints. Goldilocks is not any different. I read this through the newsletter and was so excited to read the final version. There were additions and an ending that just made the book even better. Ollie and Huck are soulmates. But an accident tore them apart. Well, Sawyer may have had a say in that. Huck took off to get his life in order and forgetting about Ollie was a part of that. So he was definitely surprised when she shows up in his house. Ollie tried to do the right thing and stay behind. But losing Huck devastated her. But she needed to protect him, so she stayed. But when the chance came, she ran. But she had a plan and it almost backfired on her, but luckily it did not. This book will suck you right in from the beginning to the end. We have betrayal, friendship, heartache, suspense and love all wrapped up within the covers. I fell in love with Ollie and Huck along with the secondary characters. They’re a close knit group of friends that all look out for one another. Don’t hesitate and grab this one today.

[LeslecturesdeMylene · Rating 5 out of 5]

17/20 - https://www.leslecturesdemylene.com/2...

je ne savais pas trop à quoi m'attendre avec ce nouveau roman de l'autrice et le moins que l'on puisse dire est que j'ai dévoré les pages pour savoir comment l'histoire entre Huck et Ollie allait se passer. Ils ont grandi ensemble, la vie les a séparé et ils vont se retrouver grâce à la volonté d'Ollie qui veux expliquer ses actes alors qu'elle n'était qu'une adolescente. Ils sont touchants, les pages se tournent très rapidement et ils nous font vibrer avec eux. J'ai adoré l'ambiance assez spéciale, le stress permanent que quelque chose leur tombe sur la tête et le suspense concernant certains faits ! Le final est vraiment chouette et on les quitte avec un grand sourire aux lèvres !!

[Nomims · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 stars

I was a bit afraid to read this one and wanted to wait but since it's a quick book i went into it.

And franckly i enjoyed it ! The story and the characters were interesting and i really want to know more about Vernom and Halsen.

Ollie and Huck (what a weird name) were good together and i was rooting for them after all they've been through but i feel like they got together as a couple a bit out of nowhere ^^
His plan was also borderline bad ...
Anyway, i think they needed more development but still their story was nice.

The big thing that bugged me though was the intrigue, oh man how crazy unbelievable and twisty it was ^^ maybe it could happen yes but it was too much and too unbelievable ^^

[The Gemini’s Bookshelf · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jay Crownover has done it again. Without a doubt she will always be an auto-buy author me for. I can count on one hand the amount of authors that make me feel the emotions the characters are experiencing. She’s one of them and honestly always will be.

Ollie and Huck have dealt with nothing but heartbreak and roadblocks their whole life. Between dealing with Sawyer stalking Ollie and using her as a pawn in a sick game and Huck being disowned because of one horrible night you know they would walk through hell and back for each other if it meant the other was safe. Nothing makes my heart happier that they came together to find their own happy.


Triggers: emotional abuse, manipulation, & suicide attempt

[Kimysmile · Rating 3 out of 5]

J'aime beaucoup Jay Crownover donc j'étais ravie de voir un nouveau roman traduit chez nous. 😍 Et j'ai beaucoup aimé ma lecture ! Certes, un peu trop courte à mon goût pour pouvoir complètement développer ses thématiques, mais j'ai beaucoup aimé le duo de personnages et la romance intense mise en place entre Huck et Ollie ! 🫠⠀
⠀
Ollie s’est toujours sentie prise au piège. Coincée entre Huck et Sawyer, les deux demi-frères ennemis du riche foyer au sein duquel elle a grandi. Cinq ans après le tragique accident qui a fait imploser cette famille, Ollie se tient sur le palier de Huck, un but bien précis en tête : regagner sa confiance. Quoi qu’il lui en coûte. Et ce, malgré la haine qu’il semble encore lui porter et les sensations inattendues qu’elle éprouve à ses côtés…⠀
⠀
J'avoue, je m'attendais à un roman plus sombre, mais je dirais qu'on est davantage dans un roman d'ambiance. Fondamentalement, ça ne m'a pas dérangé mais je m'attendais à ce qu'il y ai plus de menaces au-dessus du couple principal. Il m'a manqué certains enjeux un peu plus fort, surtout parce que la résolution m'a semblé beaucoup trop vite expédiée. ⠀
⠀
Par contre, j'ai beaucoup aimé la romance. Impossible de ne pas fondre pour Huck 🫠. Protecteur malgré lui, j'ai adoré sa manière de prendre soin d'Ollie, malgré la rancœur qui l'opprime. On sent l'évolution de ce personnage au fil des révélations et il reste le vrai point fort de l'histoire. Je me dois également de mentionner la place de l'amitié et des liens dans cette histoire. J'ai été touchée par la manière dont c'est abordé ! ⠀
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Bref, c'était une bonne lecture, j'ai passé un bon moment ! Pas mon préféré mais je recommande pour les fans de l'autrice, évidemment. 🥰⠀