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Reluctant Hearts #2
Tessa Ever After
In this grippingly emotional New Adult novel from the author of Caged in Winter, what you want isn’t always what you need…
Jason’s been living (and loving) the rich playboy lifestyle for five years, but now his parents are pressuring him to get involved in the family business. The last thing he wants is another obligation, but when his best friend moves out of state and asks Jason to look after his sister, he can’t just say no.
Tessa had to grow up way too soon. After dealing with the aftermath of her parents’ deaths, then becoming a teenage mom, she knows the meaning of responsibility. Which is why, at twenty-two, she’s looking for so much more than a party boy. She’s looking for someone who can stand by her and her daughter…forever.
A relationship between them is doomed from the start, but who says they can’t have a little fun? But as Jason gets closer to Tessa—and her daughter—fun starts to turn into something else… Something Jason’s not sure he’s ready for.
Jason’s been living (and loving) the rich playboy lifestyle for five years, but now his parents are pressuring him to get involved in the family business. The last thing he wants is another obligation, but when his best friend moves out of state and asks Jason to look after his sister, he can’t just say no.
Tessa had to grow up way too soon. After dealing with the aftermath of her parents’ deaths, then becoming a teenage mom, she knows the meaning of responsibility. Which is why, at twenty-two, she’s looking for so much more than a party boy. She’s looking for someone who can stand by her and her daughter…forever.
A relationship between them is doomed from the start, but who says they can’t have a little fun? But as Jason gets closer to Tessa—and her daughter—fun starts to turn into something else… Something Jason’s not sure he’s ready for.
306 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 5, 2015
764 people are currently reading
4296 people want to read
About the author
Brighton Walsh
53 books2,135 followersAward-winning USA Today and Wall Street Journal bestselling author Brighton Walsh spent nearly a decade as a professional photographer before taking her storytelling in a different direction and reconnecting with her first love: writing. When she’s not lost in her own made up worlds, she’s probably either reading or shopping—maybe even both at once. She lives in the Midwest with her real life hero of a husband, her two kids—both taller than her—and her dog who thinks she’s a queen. Her boy-filled house is the setting for dirty socks galore, frequent dance parties (okay, so it's mostly her, by herself, while her children look on in horror), and more laughter than she thought possible. Visit her online at brightonwalsh.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 260 reviews
May 5, 2015
Tessa had to grow up quick when she became pregnant at seventeen, but she wouldn’t change things, because it brought Haley into her life. Her little four year-old lights up her life, but lately Tessa feels a little lonely for a man to share it with.
Tessa won’t just settle on anyone. She has her daughter to consider, and she’s definitely not looking for someone like her brother’s best friend, Jason. He’s been a big-time player since high school, never serious about any girl. But lately, since her brother moved, Jason has been coming around and helping, and Haley loves him. Doesn’t hurt that Jason dotes on Haley, giving into her every whim, whether it be dressing up for a tea party or making snow angels in the bitter cold. Tessa had a teenage crush on Jason, but moved on when it became apparent he never thought of her as anything but his best friend’s little sister. Now it seems Jason’s finally taking notice. Does it matter, though, with his track record? Tessa can’t afford to take a chance on anyone who isn’t serious.
Jason has tried to tamp down his attraction for Tessa, but it’s no use. If his best friend, Cade, knew he had those thoughts and feelings he would’ve never asked Jason to look out for Tessa. That doesn’t matter because not even the thought of pissing off his best friend can keep him from Tessa or little Haley. While Tessa conjures up all kinds of lusty thoughts, it’s not just the physical that draws him. Both Tessa and Haley have somehow wiggled deep into his heart.
Naturally, Tessa would have reservations about getting involved with Jason in light of his history. I was a little worried we have some playboy antics as well, but Jason was a complete sweetheart, especially with Haley! It was evident he was wrapped around that little girl’s finger. He did have some issues with his parents and I wish he would’ve stood his ground with them a little sooner. But after their lifelong influence, it was understandable that Jason needed someone to help boil the situation down, and make the right decision.
Tessa was a very level headed, woman, mature beyond her years, and I liked that in spite of her struggles, she never let her problems completely overwhelm her. Tessa had a great support group, and she wasn’t above asking for help, whether it be emotional or practical.
Tessa Ever After was a friends-to-lovers romance with a slow build, giving a foundation to Jason and Tessa’s relationship that made it so very hot when they finally gave in! Brighton Walsh did an amazing job building chemistry and tension, and then delivered with fiery hot follow through! While there was some of the usual conflict you find at the end, nothing felt contrived or over-the-top frustrating. Tessa Ever After was my first Brighton Walsh story, and I was pleased to discover her take on New Adult was a cut above the rest!
A copy was kindly provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
This review is also posted at The Readers Den.
Tessa won’t just settle on anyone. She has her daughter to consider, and she’s definitely not looking for someone like her brother’s best friend, Jason. He’s been a big-time player since high school, never serious about any girl. But lately, since her brother moved, Jason has been coming around and helping, and Haley loves him. Doesn’t hurt that Jason dotes on Haley, giving into her every whim, whether it be dressing up for a tea party or making snow angels in the bitter cold. Tessa had a teenage crush on Jason, but moved on when it became apparent he never thought of her as anything but his best friend’s little sister. Now it seems Jason’s finally taking notice. Does it matter, though, with his track record? Tessa can’t afford to take a chance on anyone who isn’t serious.
Jason has tried to tamp down his attraction for Tessa, but it’s no use. If his best friend, Cade, knew he had those thoughts and feelings he would’ve never asked Jason to look out for Tessa. That doesn’t matter because not even the thought of pissing off his best friend can keep him from Tessa or little Haley. While Tessa conjures up all kinds of lusty thoughts, it’s not just the physical that draws him. Both Tessa and Haley have somehow wiggled deep into his heart.
Naturally, Tessa would have reservations about getting involved with Jason in light of his history. I was a little worried we have some playboy antics as well, but Jason was a complete sweetheart, especially with Haley! It was evident he was wrapped around that little girl’s finger. He did have some issues with his parents and I wish he would’ve stood his ground with them a little sooner. But after their lifelong influence, it was understandable that Jason needed someone to help boil the situation down, and make the right decision.
Tessa was a very level headed, woman, mature beyond her years, and I liked that in spite of her struggles, she never let her problems completely overwhelm her. Tessa had a great support group, and she wasn’t above asking for help, whether it be emotional or practical.
Tessa Ever After was a friends-to-lovers romance with a slow build, giving a foundation to Jason and Tessa’s relationship that made it so very hot when they finally gave in! Brighton Walsh did an amazing job building chemistry and tension, and then delivered with fiery hot follow through! While there was some of the usual conflict you find at the end, nothing felt contrived or over-the-top frustrating. Tessa Ever After was my first Brighton Walsh story, and I was pleased to discover her take on New Adult was a cut above the rest!
A copy was kindly provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
This review is also posted at The Readers Den.
August 17, 2015
Overall rating: 4.5 "Tea Party Hat" stars!
Triggers:
Cheating:
Love triangle:
Sex with om/ow:
Intimate pasts:
OW/OM drama:
Push/pull:
HEA:
I really enjoyed this read! It's not a secret that I love single parent romances and this was no exception. I was hesitant at first considering the hero's manwhore background, but it was not a problem for me. At the start of the book, the hero is recognizing his feelings for the heroine, so there are no other women for him from that point on. Now, talking about that - the heroine had a crush on the hero a LONG time ago. She is 22 and he is 24. When she was like 12, she crushed on him hard. Then she went to school with him and her brother when she was like 14 and saw him being a manwhore around campus, so she was crushed, but moved on. She didn't pine after him at all. It is AFTER the hero starts recognizing his feelings for Tessa, that Tessa starts to realize that maybe her crush wasn't dead after all.
For years they were simply good friends. That was it. There was no hurt feelings anywhere when he was doing his thing and she was doing hers. The issue is that BECAUSE the heroine grew up with him, she KNEW of his manwhore background and how he NEVER had a girlfriend and NEVER did commitment. So it was hard for her to want to take a chance on him and risk possibly getting burned, like she was with Hayley's father.
The scenes with Hayley and Jason were the SWEETEST. I just loved that little girl. There were plenty of scenes too so I was SO excited about that! You could tell how deeply Jason cared/loved Tessa and Hayley.
So the gist is that Tessa's brother, who used to live with her and help her tremendously with Hayley, moved away 5 months ago and Jason has been there as a replacement since then. I think that's when he started to notice her. But he knows he isn't good enough for her. He has a screwed up situation with school and his parents and he has never been in a relationship before. What could he offer Tessa and Hayley? It wasn't until the start of this book (well a little later actually) that Tessa starts to notice him again. Sure, she always found him attractive, but ever since that little crush when she was 14, that was it as far as her feelings for him went. But seeing him with Hayley and all he continued to do for her, she couldn't help but fall in love with him.
There is a brief separation towards the end, but it has nothing to do with other women and there are no other women for this hero in this book, except for that barfly that I mentioned in my spoiler. :)
Triggers:
Cheating:
Love triangle:
Sex with om/ow:
Intimate pasts:
OW/OM drama:
Push/pull:
HEA:
I really enjoyed this read! It's not a secret that I love single parent romances and this was no exception. I was hesitant at first considering the hero's manwhore background, but it was not a problem for me. At the start of the book, the hero is recognizing his feelings for the heroine, so there are no other women for him from that point on. Now, talking about that - the heroine had a crush on the hero a LONG time ago. She is 22 and he is 24. When she was like 12, she crushed on him hard. Then she went to school with him and her brother when she was like 14 and saw him being a manwhore around campus, so she was crushed, but moved on. She didn't pine after him at all. It is AFTER the hero starts recognizing his feelings for Tessa, that Tessa starts to realize that maybe her crush wasn't dead after all.
For years they were simply good friends. That was it. There was no hurt feelings anywhere when he was doing his thing and she was doing hers. The issue is that BECAUSE the heroine grew up with him, she KNEW of his manwhore background and how he NEVER had a girlfriend and NEVER did commitment. So it was hard for her to want to take a chance on him and risk possibly getting burned, like she was with Hayley's father.
The scenes with Hayley and Jason were the SWEETEST. I just loved that little girl. There were plenty of scenes too so I was SO excited about that! You could tell how deeply Jason cared/loved Tessa and Hayley.
So the gist is that Tessa's brother, who used to live with her and help her tremendously with Hayley, moved away 5 months ago and Jason has been there as a replacement since then. I think that's when he started to notice her. But he knows he isn't good enough for her. He has a screwed up situation with school and his parents and he has never been in a relationship before. What could he offer Tessa and Hayley? It wasn't until the start of this book (well a little later actually) that Tessa starts to notice him again. Sure, she always found him attractive, but ever since that little crush when she was 14, that was it as far as her feelings for him went. But seeing him with Hayley and all he continued to do for her, she couldn't help but fall in love with him.
There is a brief separation towards the end, but it has nothing to do with other women and there are no other women for this hero in this book, except for that barfly that I mentioned in my spoiler. :)
December 11, 2015
Can this be real life? Better yet, can real life be like a fast food restaurant so I could get one order of Jason to go, please and thank you? I've needed this baby in my hands ever since reading and loving Caged in Winter. I just knew Jason and Tessa were going to be an amazing couple, and I couldn't wait to read their story. Thank goodness for friends who love to share!
Tessa is sister to Cade - hero of the first book - and Jase is his best friend. The three of them grew up together and have always been very close. Now that Cade has moved out of the state, Jase has been the one to look after Tessa and help with her adorable four-year-old daughter. Lately (and even before Cade left the picture), Jase has been thinking not-so-brotherly thoughts toward Tessa. He's always been the playboy type due to his parent's God-awful marriage, but he knows Tessa deserves so much more than that. She needs someone who will be a lover and a life partner, and she's certainly looking. Can he be that guy for her?
I could have read this book for days and days. Of course, I always want to get to the happy ending, but if this had a bazillion epilogues I would read them all. Brighton Walsh writes the swooniest and sexiest romances, and I think Tessa Ever After may just top them all. I loved watching both Tessa and Jase come to terms with their attraction for one another. It's hard for Tessa to not notice Jase, but she hasn't let herself go there in a good long while because she knows he's not one for committed relationships. She longs for stability and a true connection. She hopes that's with Jason, because he's the only guy who makes her burn, but she's cautious. I will always, always, always connect to heroines who love love, and that perfectly describes Tessa. She doesn't want hook-ups or meaningless relationships; she wants passion, yes, but also the real deal. I'm the same way, so it made it so easy for me to root for her and want her to find what she was looking for.
I could definitely understand her hesitancy toward Jase. They have combustible chemistry but does he want more? Truthfully, I've been sick of the playboys lately, but Jase is different. He doesn't play with Tessa's emotions or keep his feelings shrouded in mystery. He's, for the most part, open and honest with her and so genuine. Seeing him realize that Tessa is the first and only girl he's ever loved... yeah, I fell for this guy hook, line, and sinker. He's got easy charm and a dirty mouth that will do more than heat your cheeks. He also treats Tessa with devotion and respect, and he adores her four-year-old daughter. I'm not always a big fan of kids in romances, but Hayley is just so cute and funny and it melted me the way Jase interacts with her. I was counting down the pages for him to get out from underneath his parents' thumbs, who want nothing more than for him to be their 'perfect, dutiful' son. It takes a while, but I think you'll find yourself in a puddle of goo by the end.
I can't say enough how amazing Brighton's New Adult books are. If you're a fan of the genre, you need to pick these up asap, but even if you're wary, know that these are fantastically written and oh so satisfying. She writes characters and romances that have me thinking about them months later. I can't wait for the next.
Thank you, Jess, for sending me your extra ARC! You are a sparkling unicorn in my life. <3
This review can also be found at Love at First Page.
Tessa is sister to Cade - hero of the first book - and Jase is his best friend. The three of them grew up together and have always been very close. Now that Cade has moved out of the state, Jase has been the one to look after Tessa and help with her adorable four-year-old daughter. Lately (and even before Cade left the picture), Jase has been thinking not-so-brotherly thoughts toward Tessa. He's always been the playboy type due to his parent's God-awful marriage, but he knows Tessa deserves so much more than that. She needs someone who will be a lover and a life partner, and she's certainly looking. Can he be that guy for her?
I could have read this book for days and days. Of course, I always want to get to the happy ending, but if this had a bazillion epilogues I would read them all. Brighton Walsh writes the swooniest and sexiest romances, and I think Tessa Ever After may just top them all. I loved watching both Tessa and Jase come to terms with their attraction for one another. It's hard for Tessa to not notice Jase, but she hasn't let herself go there in a good long while because she knows he's not one for committed relationships. She longs for stability and a true connection. She hopes that's with Jason, because he's the only guy who makes her burn, but she's cautious. I will always, always, always connect to heroines who love love, and that perfectly describes Tessa. She doesn't want hook-ups or meaningless relationships; she wants passion, yes, but also the real deal. I'm the same way, so it made it so easy for me to root for her and want her to find what she was looking for.
I could definitely understand her hesitancy toward Jase. They have combustible chemistry but does he want more? Truthfully, I've been sick of the playboys lately, but Jase is different. He doesn't play with Tessa's emotions or keep his feelings shrouded in mystery. He's, for the most part, open and honest with her and so genuine. Seeing him realize that Tessa is the first and only girl he's ever loved... yeah, I fell for this guy hook, line, and sinker. He's got easy charm and a dirty mouth that will do more than heat your cheeks. He also treats Tessa with devotion and respect, and he adores her four-year-old daughter. I'm not always a big fan of kids in romances, but Hayley is just so cute and funny and it melted me the way Jase interacts with her. I was counting down the pages for him to get out from underneath his parents' thumbs, who want nothing more than for him to be their 'perfect, dutiful' son. It takes a while, but I think you'll find yourself in a puddle of goo by the end.
I can't say enough how amazing Brighton's New Adult books are. If you're a fan of the genre, you need to pick these up asap, but even if you're wary, know that these are fantastically written and oh so satisfying. She writes characters and romances that have me thinking about them months later. I can't wait for the next.
Thank you, Jess, for sending me your extra ARC! You are a sparkling unicorn in my life. <3
This review can also be found at Love at First Page.
June 9, 2017
REREAD : *SOBS* This was perfect. I love Brighton's words and swoony heroes.
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Tessa Ever After epitomizes what I want out of every romance novel : a romance to get my heart fluttering and me melting into a puddle of swoon. After reading and falling in love with Brighton Walsh's writing in Captive, I knew that Tessa Ever After and anything else she writes after, would be books I pick up without any hesitation. With Tessa Ever After, she has created another winning novel that has positioned her as one of my top favorite romance authors.
I found Tessa to be an intriguing character in the first, what with her being a teenage mom, and I wanted to know more about her. In Tessa Ever After, we get exactly that. With Cade, Tessa's brother, having left town, Tessa is forced to grow up, in a sense, to take care of her little girl. I like how Brighton Walsh represented Tessa's struggles so realistically. The littlest of things would set her off and I tried to imagine myself in her position and I realized I would probably have reacted in the same way. In fact, I'd go as far as to say that Tessa actually handled her situation very bravely. I loved the bond that she had for her daughter too. The love that Tessa had for her really shone through the pages, and Tessa really strove hard to keep her daughter happy and I really admired her for that. Thankfully, Tessa also had Jason to help her out during her mini-crises. Man, I loved Jason so much! Talk about a swoony hero! For me, it was insta-love when it came to Jason. I fell hard for this guy and I just couldn't get enough of him. Also, he has seriously dirty mouth that had me blushing so much throughout the book! Jason, himself, is going through some issues with his family, more specifically, his inability to say no to them, but with the help of Tessa and her daughter, he finally did some growing up.
One of my favorite parts in Tessa Ever After was the sweet moments between Jason and Tessa's daughter. Those moments were so tender and had me sighing in happiness. We got to see a really different shade to Jason's character and it was one that I adored. Of course, I also loved loved loved the romance in Tessa Ever After. Not only did Tessa and Jason have smoldering sexual chemistry, that was capable of setting my e-reader on fire, but they were also the sort of couple that helped each other grow throughout their relationship. They encountered a few obstacles throughout their relationship, because of Cade and because of interfering from Jason's parents, but by the end of the book they were a truly strong couple. I'm glad that Brighton Walsh didn't drag out their separation too much. In fact, I think their separation was important because they needed to make some individual decisions that they wouldn't have been able to make while being in a relationship. Seriously, Tessa and Jason had one of my all-time favorite romances! Add to that Brighton Walsh's amazing writing style. There's just something enchanting about her writing style that sucks you in.
Do you enjoy swoony heroes, strong female characters, fabulous writing and romances that have you sighing in happiness for days? Then, Tessa Ever After is the book you've been waiting for!
May 13, 2015
ARC provided by publishers via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
It's official I'm addicted to Brighton Walsh's writing and story-telling. After reading Captive and now her newest release Tessa Ever After, I am hooked and she is officially on my auto one-click list of authors.
Tessa Ever After chronicles the tale of a single mother learning how to cope with motherhood without the help of her big brother, Cade. She soon finds herself struggling to balance work and taking care of her young daughter. So when Cade asked his best friend, Jason to look after Tessa, sparks of attraction begins to ignite. Tessa and Jason have known each other for so long so it completely catches them off guard when they find comfort and a growing attraction to each other.
The chemistry between Tessa and Jason was tangible and palpable. It is one of those magical and unexpected romance that will steal your hearts when Ms. Walsh showcases two individuals finding the missing piece in their lives. Jason was able to be the support system that Tessa needed and showed her that she is an amazing mom to her daughter Hayley. And as for Jason, Tessa was the game changer. She was the one who showed Jason love.
So if you are looking for a sweet, sexy, touching and beautiful New Adult read then I highly recommend you to read Tessa Ever After. This book gave me those warm fuzzy feelings and left me smiling throughout the book!!
Brighton Walsh
Review can also be found on Four Chicks Flipping Pages
It's official I'm addicted to Brighton Walsh's writing and story-telling. After reading Captive and now her newest release Tessa Ever After, I am hooked and she is officially on my auto one-click list of authors.
Tessa Ever After chronicles the tale of a single mother learning how to cope with motherhood without the help of her big brother, Cade. She soon finds herself struggling to balance work and taking care of her young daughter. So when Cade asked his best friend, Jason to look after Tessa, sparks of attraction begins to ignite. Tessa and Jason have known each other for so long so it completely catches them off guard when they find comfort and a growing attraction to each other.
The chemistry between Tessa and Jason was tangible and palpable. It is one of those magical and unexpected romance that will steal your hearts when Ms. Walsh showcases two individuals finding the missing piece in their lives. Jason was able to be the support system that Tessa needed and showed her that she is an amazing mom to her daughter Hayley. And as for Jason, Tessa was the game changer. She was the one who showed Jason love.
So if you are looking for a sweet, sexy, touching and beautiful New Adult read then I highly recommend you to read Tessa Ever After. This book gave me those warm fuzzy feelings and left me smiling throughout the book!!
Brighton Walsh
Review can also be found on Four Chicks Flipping Pages
May 1, 2015
This was just perfection.
Love love love Tessa and Haley and Jason. I especially loved Jason dressing up in feather boas and fluffy hats, playing tea party with Haley. Or teaching her evil laughs. Or everything single thing he did with her.
The swoons are plentiful and since its Brighton's book, you know there are sexy times. And especially because it's Brighton's book, there were some delicious things happening.
For me, this was better than Caged. I really hope we get another book in this series. Paige and Adam, please?
**Huge thanks to my pretty PA, Christina, for letting me borrow her arc**
Love love love Tessa and Haley and Jason. I especially loved Jason dressing up in feather boas and fluffy hats, playing tea party with Haley. Or teaching her evil laughs. Or everything single thing he did with her.
The swoons are plentiful and since its Brighton's book, you know there are sexy times. And especially because it's Brighton's book, there were some delicious things happening.
For me, this was better than Caged. I really hope we get another book in this series. Paige and Adam, please?
**Huge thanks to my pretty PA, Christina, for letting me borrow her arc**
January 2, 2015
So I thought it would be hard to top Cade... But Jason has done it. I loved this! I will be rereading closer to release and doing a full review then since this is a very early version, but if you haven't added these books yet ... RUN NOW
May 19, 2015
Loved, loved, loved so much! And holy hell was it hot. And swoony. And cute. And angst-less. And everything good and wonderful. Also I can say, with certainty, that Jason is my favorite Brighton Walsh hero so far. <3
My Review!
The best friend’s sister/sister’s best friend romance trope is one of my FAVORITES. And after reading Caged in Winter, I was dying to get my hands on Tessa’s and Jason’s story. Two characters I grew to love in the few scenes they were in during CiW, ones whose happy ending I wanted to read so badly. Because they both deserved that happy ending.
Tessa, who is so strong and selfless and hard-working, a girl who just wants to do right by her daughter. She’s worked extremely hard to become the woman she is now, and she feels like she’s failing. With Cade gone, she’s left on her own and she never realized how much he helped out. And she’s floundering, trying so hard to be the best mother she can be, putting so much pressure and expectations on herself. I loved Tessa’s strength, even when she was struggling. I loved that she kept fighting for more, for herself and her daughter. She’s her own worst enemy, and she’s better than what she thinks of herself, but she doesn’t see that. All she can see is a failure.
But Jason doesn’t see a failure when he looks at her. He sees a woman who had to grow up too fast, one who took control of her life and made something for herself. He can’t say the same for himself. He’s been in school for five years, wasting away his time because he knows that once he graduates, he has to work for his father. And that’s not what he wants. But he won’t let himself want anything else, won’t let himself dream of possibilities. And that almost stops him from losing the best thing that’s ever happened to him. Jason could be so clueless, so narrow-minded, but he had wonderful growth like Tess. He found something worth fighting for, a dream, and two girls who made his life infinitely better.
The romance between the two of them was HOT. Their chemistry is off-the-charts. Jason is a smooth, confident dirty-talker who knows what he wants and is not afraid to go after it. He’s a total Alpha, but one who cares so deeply for Tess and one who just wants to prove himself to her. *fans self* Tessa is more cautious, a little insecure. Her past relationships have given her a less than stellar opinion on sex and romance. She wants a little more for herself, something that she struggles with because how could she think she needs more than her little girl? But she wants love. Someone to share in the load, someone who will hold her at night and play in the snow with Haley. Is it selfish? I say hell no. And Tessa didn’t realize all along that the man who was perfect for them was right there the whole time. I adored reading about them falling in love. It was a passionate, steamy affair that made the two main characters better. In each other, they found a partner, and a love that had a strong foundation built in friendship, mutual respect, and understanding.
I have to say, I’m usually not a fan of kids in books, or main characters who are parents. Not that there is anything wrong with them, not at all. And I KNOW that they are sorely underrepresented in books, especially in NA ones. I’m in this age range, and let me tell you, so many of my fellow high school graduates have kids. It’s extremely common. So I don’t know why I don’t like reading them that much, but maybe it’s because I haven’t read enough good ones (and also could probably be because I don't like kids that much in real life). Being a mom was such an integral part of Tessa’s life and her development as a character. I love how awesome she is to her Haley, how patient and understanding, and you can see how much she loves her little girl. And Haley was such a great secondary character; she’s so freaking adorable. I especially loved the scenes with Jason and her (he dressed up for a tea party for her BRB MELTING FROM SWOONS), or all three of them together. They’re the cutest damn trio.
I also loved the additions of Paige and Adam, and of course, Cade (even though he needed to mind his own damn business and let Tess live her life the way she wanted to). Paige is the greatest best friend. She’s cool, confident, and so very different from Tessa’s more quiet demeanor. I want this woman to get her own book! GET ON THAT, BRIGHTON. Also, I’ve always loved the bromance between the three guys--Adam, Cade, and Jason. I want more of that, too. (I am so demanding).
I was not expecting to write such a long review, but I had so many thoughts and feelings about this book! I loved the focus on the romance, but I also loved the focus on family and friendships. Family doesn’t just mean by blood; it can be the people you choose for yourself. And that is something that Jason comes to realize. Tess and Haley became his family, and he would do anything for his girls. That ending was PERFECT. I adored Tessa Ever After so freaking much, I almost never wanted it to end.
Rating: 4.5 Paw Prints!
*Review can also be found at The Fox's Hideaway.
My Review!
The best friend’s sister/sister’s best friend romance trope is one of my FAVORITES. And after reading Caged in Winter, I was dying to get my hands on Tessa’s and Jason’s story. Two characters I grew to love in the few scenes they were in during CiW, ones whose happy ending I wanted to read so badly. Because they both deserved that happy ending.
Tessa, who is so strong and selfless and hard-working, a girl who just wants to do right by her daughter. She’s worked extremely hard to become the woman she is now, and she feels like she’s failing. With Cade gone, she’s left on her own and she never realized how much he helped out. And she’s floundering, trying so hard to be the best mother she can be, putting so much pressure and expectations on herself. I loved Tessa’s strength, even when she was struggling. I loved that she kept fighting for more, for herself and her daughter. She’s her own worst enemy, and she’s better than what she thinks of herself, but she doesn’t see that. All she can see is a failure.
But Jason doesn’t see a failure when he looks at her. He sees a woman who had to grow up too fast, one who took control of her life and made something for herself. He can’t say the same for himself. He’s been in school for five years, wasting away his time because he knows that once he graduates, he has to work for his father. And that’s not what he wants. But he won’t let himself want anything else, won’t let himself dream of possibilities. And that almost stops him from losing the best thing that’s ever happened to him. Jason could be so clueless, so narrow-minded, but he had wonderful growth like Tess. He found something worth fighting for, a dream, and two girls who made his life infinitely better.
The romance between the two of them was HOT. Their chemistry is off-the-charts. Jason is a smooth, confident dirty-talker who knows what he wants and is not afraid to go after it. He’s a total Alpha, but one who cares so deeply for Tess and one who just wants to prove himself to her. *fans self* Tessa is more cautious, a little insecure. Her past relationships have given her a less than stellar opinion on sex and romance. She wants a little more for herself, something that she struggles with because how could she think she needs more than her little girl? But she wants love. Someone to share in the load, someone who will hold her at night and play in the snow with Haley. Is it selfish? I say hell no. And Tessa didn’t realize all along that the man who was perfect for them was right there the whole time. I adored reading about them falling in love. It was a passionate, steamy affair that made the two main characters better. In each other, they found a partner, and a love that had a strong foundation built in friendship, mutual respect, and understanding.
I have to say, I’m usually not a fan of kids in books, or main characters who are parents. Not that there is anything wrong with them, not at all. And I KNOW that they are sorely underrepresented in books, especially in NA ones. I’m in this age range, and let me tell you, so many of my fellow high school graduates have kids. It’s extremely common. So I don’t know why I don’t like reading them that much, but maybe it’s because I haven’t read enough good ones (and also could probably be because I don't like kids that much in real life). Being a mom was such an integral part of Tessa’s life and her development as a character. I love how awesome she is to her Haley, how patient and understanding, and you can see how much she loves her little girl. And Haley was such a great secondary character; she’s so freaking adorable. I especially loved the scenes with Jason and her (he dressed up for a tea party for her BRB MELTING FROM SWOONS), or all three of them together. They’re the cutest damn trio.
I also loved the additions of Paige and Adam, and of course, Cade (even though he needed to mind his own damn business and let Tess live her life the way she wanted to). Paige is the greatest best friend. She’s cool, confident, and so very different from Tessa’s more quiet demeanor. I want this woman to get her own book! GET ON THAT, BRIGHTON. Also, I’ve always loved the bromance between the three guys--Adam, Cade, and Jason. I want more of that, too. (I am so demanding).
I was not expecting to write such a long review, but I had so many thoughts and feelings about this book! I loved the focus on the romance, but I also loved the focus on family and friendships. Family doesn’t just mean by blood; it can be the people you choose for yourself. And that is something that Jason comes to realize. Tess and Haley became his family, and he would do anything for his girls. That ending was PERFECT. I adored Tessa Ever After so freaking much, I almost never wanted it to end.
Rating: 4.5 Paw Prints!
*Review can also be found at The Fox's Hideaway.
June 24, 2016
Last year I chose Cade as my book boyfriend of the year. As much as I love Cade, this year it's all about his best friend Jason. Holy swoons. That boy is something else. He absolutely took my breath away and I especially loved seeing him interact with Tessa's daughter, Haley. They were precious together and I love how much he cares for her and she for him. Falling for the sibling's best friend is absolutely one of my favorite romance tropes and so I was over the moon reading this one.
Jason and Tessa have known each other since they were kids, but it's only lately that both of them have starting seeing one another in a different light. Sure, Tessa crushed on Jason as a teen, but nothing ever came of it. Jason has always been good-looking and getting girls to fall and swoon all over him is no hardship. With Cade having left for Chicago to pursue his dream as a chef, Tessa finds herself relying on Jason more than she ever thought she would. She's been having trouble adjusting to life without her brother there to help her and raising a four year old by yourself is no walk in the park. My heart ached for Tessa because she feels so defeated when this book begins. She feels like she's failing and that kills her because she is fiercely independent. She loves her daughter unconditionally, but it's been hard finding her own groove.
Jason has been seeking comfort from Tessa and Haley, as his family situation isn't the greatest. His parents are putting the pressure on and have now given him an ultimatum in regards to his future. He knows he shouldn't be entertaining these feelings for Tessa, considering they are for his best friend's sister. Who is very clearly off-limits. Cade was quite the ass to Jason about Tessa and it really bothered me he was being such a jerk when HE was the one that asked Jason to keep an eye out for them while he was away. To be fair, Jason has always been a bit of a player, so I can understand Cade's feelings, as he doesn't want his sister to be hurt again. Cade isn't there to see Jason changing, and as much as Jason knows he shouldn't go after her, he can't help himself. He sees her dating these boring, nice guys who don't spark her to life and as much as he tries to talk himself out of wanting her, he just can't.
I loved Jason and Tessa's chemistry. Whew. Talk about hot! Once these two give in to their attraction to one another, it's explosive. But we knew it would be, especially after the first time he swept her out onto the dance floor at a bar. Walsh did a great job with the build up and I like that she kept their relationship relatively low angst. Sure, there's a bit of a conflict and miscommunication that throws a wrench in their burgeoning relationship, but Jason melted my heart with how he resolved it. He's the perfect complement to Tessa and his love for Haley is just beautiful to witness.
I really liked Paige, Tessa's best friend, and I really hope Walsh is planning to write her story. She's fun, flirty, and has no filter, which I loved about her! She's been hurt before and hasn't let herself settle down, choosing to bounce from guy to guy, but never really finding what she's liking for to fill the void. Personally, I would love to see her with Adam, Cade and Jason's friend.
Overall, this book completely rocked my socks. When I finished reading, there was no contemplation necessary- it was a 5 star read for me. I love Brighton's books so I can't wait to read what she gives us next!
*Received a copy of this book via the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review.*
Jason and Tessa have known each other since they were kids, but it's only lately that both of them have starting seeing one another in a different light. Sure, Tessa crushed on Jason as a teen, but nothing ever came of it. Jason has always been good-looking and getting girls to fall and swoon all over him is no hardship. With Cade having left for Chicago to pursue his dream as a chef, Tessa finds herself relying on Jason more than she ever thought she would. She's been having trouble adjusting to life without her brother there to help her and raising a four year old by yourself is no walk in the park. My heart ached for Tessa because she feels so defeated when this book begins. She feels like she's failing and that kills her because she is fiercely independent. She loves her daughter unconditionally, but it's been hard finding her own groove.
Jason has been seeking comfort from Tessa and Haley, as his family situation isn't the greatest. His parents are putting the pressure on and have now given him an ultimatum in regards to his future. He knows he shouldn't be entertaining these feelings for Tessa, considering they are for his best friend's sister. Who is very clearly off-limits. Cade was quite the ass to Jason about Tessa and it really bothered me he was being such a jerk when HE was the one that asked Jason to keep an eye out for them while he was away. To be fair, Jason has always been a bit of a player, so I can understand Cade's feelings, as he doesn't want his sister to be hurt again. Cade isn't there to see Jason changing, and as much as Jason knows he shouldn't go after her, he can't help himself. He sees her dating these boring, nice guys who don't spark her to life and as much as he tries to talk himself out of wanting her, he just can't.
I loved Jason and Tessa's chemistry. Whew. Talk about hot! Once these two give in to their attraction to one another, it's explosive. But we knew it would be, especially after the first time he swept her out onto the dance floor at a bar. Walsh did a great job with the build up and I like that she kept their relationship relatively low angst. Sure, there's a bit of a conflict and miscommunication that throws a wrench in their burgeoning relationship, but Jason melted my heart with how he resolved it. He's the perfect complement to Tessa and his love for Haley is just beautiful to witness.
I really liked Paige, Tessa's best friend, and I really hope Walsh is planning to write her story. She's fun, flirty, and has no filter, which I loved about her! She's been hurt before and hasn't let herself settle down, choosing to bounce from guy to guy, but never really finding what she's liking for to fill the void. Personally, I would love to see her with Adam, Cade and Jason's friend.
Overall, this book completely rocked my socks. When I finished reading, there was no contemplation necessary- it was a 5 star read for me. I love Brighton's books so I can't wait to read what she gives us next!
*Received a copy of this book via the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review.*
May 30, 2015
Maybe all the high expectations I set got the best of me because even though I thoroughly enjoyed this book, I can't say that I loved it. Sigh. Tessa and Jason have a great chemistry, yes, but I felt that the story dragged on too much when everything could've been solved if it didn't take Tessa being away from Jason for him to realize that Tessa and Haley are the family he really needs. Oh well, we wouldn't have had a story if it went that way though. Nonetheless, I still think that Brighton Walsh is a great writer and I will always be looking forward to whatever she writes next.
July 4, 2016
This book. THIS BOOOOOOOOOK. Definitely one of my fave NA books since I started binge-reading them about a month ago. The characters were amazing, the chemistry was off the charts, my emotions were EVERYWHERE (seriously—I laughed, I cried, I can't even)... It's got it's fair share of conflict, but mostly, this book just made my heart SO happy. UGH. So good.
January 31, 2020
Yaaaaaaay for amazingly swoony HEA epilogues so my heart can squeeze out those last little flutters. Y'all are in for such a sweet treat with Tessa and Jason (and Haley and Paige and glimpses of Adam and CADE and Winter.)
Full review closer to pub date, but if you loved Caged in Winter-- or even if you didn't (which, um, do these crazy people even exist)-- then be sure to add this to your TBR quick-like.
And just FYI, if you're like me and agree that Dirty Talkers are the best thing ever, then best prepare yourself for Jason's mouth. Pretty prancing ponies, that boy!
*Edited on April 8, 2015 for full review.
My original review for this title can be found here on The Book Hookup.
**SPECIAL NOTE:** A print ARC of this title was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review. However, that did not influence this review in any way. All thoughts, quotes, and opinions will be of this version and not of the published edition.
♥ Quick Thoughts and Rating: 5 let's-get-lost-in-the-swoons-and-you-can-always-dirty-talk-your-way-into-my-heart stars! If I'm being honest, there's nothing quick about my thoughts when it comes to the amazing characters and endlessly hilarious/swoony/emotional dialogue that Brighton Walsh has crammed into this book. It was all my favorite things and I just want to hold onto these feeeeeeelings (!!!!!!) forever and ever... and ever and ever. Jason, holla at me, m'kay?!
I'm warning you now, there will probably be lots of EXPRESSIVE talk, italics, and exclamations to follow. I'll try to benot a total flailing spazz legit with this review, but sometimes you just have to let the flails lead you. Oh, and this review might possibly include some quotes that you alone might consider spoilery, just fair warning.
♥ The Lowdown: Tessa had to grow up quickly when she lost both her parents at a young age, and especially after she became a teenage mom at seventeen. Now at twenty-two, she's finally left to really be on her own after her older brother Cade (you may remember him from Caged in Winter, you can find myendless flailing review of it
here
) leaves town to pursue his career as a chef. She never realized how much she actually relied on him for support and helping with her now four-year-old daughter, Haley, until after he was gone. Even after months, she's struggling to balance her job, daughter, and the dating scene all while trudging through everything life can throw at you on a daily basis. She never expected her White Knight to come in the form of one of her older brother's best friends, Jason.
Jason is pretty renowned for his sexual exploits and playboy lifestyle, but he's never really had reason to regret his past until recently. With his parents breathing down his neck, pressuring him to graduate college and take up his seat at the head of his family's company, he finds himself repeatedly running to the one place that's always kept him sane, Cade and Tessa's house. With Cade living in Chicago, he had asked Jason to check in on his baby sister and little niece, but now he goes more for himself rather than any obligatory duty he feels he owes his best friend. Yet, the more time he spends with Tessa and her daughter Haley, the more he finds himself questioning the feelings he has toward them both. His grandfather always preached about family and their importance, but it's with these two that he can actually picture playing house for forever.
♥ My Thoughts: SO MANY FEELINGS, Y'ALL! And. The. Chemistry?!?! RIDICULOUS. OFF THE CHARTS. UNGMAHGAWD, SO GOOD! AND SWOONS?! AND DIRTY-TALKING UNFINESS! AND THE CUTE! AND THE LITERAL, PLENTIFUL LAUGH OUT LOUD MOMENTS! (Side-barring for a moment for a brief self-peptalk: Okay, Christina, get it together. Reel it in. Play it cool. You're embarrassing yourself. Still.)
Okay, but seriously, I loved this book so so much. The characters will leap off the pages and in to your heart. (And if they don't, then I'm sorry to tell you this, friend, but you don't have one. As a matter of fact, we probably can't even be friends at this point. Best wishes upon you.) First, there's our heroine, Tessa. She's a definite lover of love, never one for short-term hookups because she always ends up getting her heart in the mix. I genuinely enjoyed her character-- how she was hesitant and thoughtful and had no problem justifying her search for Mr. Right while ignoring a sea of potential Mr. Right Nows. I also loved that this book portrayed her always as a mother first and sometimes the difficulties that come with having to think about a future that exists for more than just yourself. And her daughter Haley? Heavens, did I love that girl to bits! She was vibrant and adorable and it took little effort at all to see why Jason was just as taken with her as he was with her mom. She stole away into my heart with ease. Now that I've brought up Jason, well, I can think of absolutely nothing else. Holy unf with a giant heaping of hot damn! J was a bit of everything that I love in a complex hero. He's an unapologetic ladies' man, which has certainly developed his skills in the bedroom... and that's including his verbal skills.
*takes a moment to fan my cheeks after remembering the full scene of what happens in that hallway* But he's also really sweet and considerate and responsible and swoony. Then there's Paige, Tessa's best friend. She has such a huge presence in this book even though her role and face-time is limited. I loved every time she had a scene in this book. She is hilarious and made me spew my drink a time or two. She should absolutely come with a screenspray warning. (I'd quote you some teasers here but they're too filthy for passerby young eyes.) We also get page (and phone time) with Adam, Winter, and Cade, which is always welcomed and appreciated.
But this review is reaching ridiculous levels so I'll wrap it up quickly. I loved the character growth both Tessa and Jason (and Cade) underwent during the course of this book. It was realistic and believable and made the characters all the more endearing, in my opinion. I enjoyed the sexytimes (Have I mentioned Jason is a dirty talker yet?). I enjoyed how the storyline was developed and how it was concluded. Lastly, I absolutely adore that Brighton gives us sweet, HEA-included epilogues.
♥ Swoons: Holy crap, I swooned my freaking face off!
♥ Swoony Teaser: The only challenge here is trying to figure out which quote to tease you with because there is so many to choose from. (I know, woe is me. There's too many swoons... said no reader ever.) But, I want you to experience all the sexier ones with Tessa on your own, so I'll pull from a scene Jason had with Haley instead.
♥ Rec It? Absofreakinglutely!!! If you like reading books where you can connect with characters, swoon your face off, laugh out loud at the dialogue exchanges, root for a HEA, melt from the dirty-talk and sexytimes, and generally fall in love with, Tessa Ever After needs to be in your hands and a part of your life. You won't regret it.
Now, what does a girl have to do to complete the boy-best-friends trifecta? I think Adam needs his own book, and I know I'd be partial to him having a little Paige time in his book. (See what I did there with the play on Paige/page? No? Well, that girl is hilarious so I don't have to be. *shuffles away awkwardly clutching my worn, well-read copy of Tessa Ever After*)
♥ A very special thanks to Berkley (and one of its loveliest publicists, Ms. J Brock) for providing me with an advanced copy of this title in exchange for my honest review.
Full review closer to pub date, but if you loved Caged in Winter-- or even if you didn't (which, um, do these crazy people even exist)-- then be sure to add this to your TBR quick-like.
And just FYI, if you're like me and agree that Dirty Talkers are the best thing ever, then best prepare yourself for Jason's mouth. Pretty prancing ponies, that boy!
*Edited on April 8, 2015 for full review.
My original review for this title can be found here on The Book Hookup.
**SPECIAL NOTE:** A print ARC of this title was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review. However, that did not influence this review in any way. All thoughts, quotes, and opinions will be of this version and not of the published edition.
♥ Quick Thoughts and Rating: 5 let's-get-lost-in-the-swoons-and-you-can-always-dirty-talk-your-way-into-my-heart stars! If I'm being honest, there's nothing quick about my thoughts when it comes to the amazing characters and endlessly hilarious/swoony/emotional dialogue that Brighton Walsh has crammed into this book. It was all my favorite things and I just want to hold onto these feeeeeeelings (!!!!!!) forever and ever... and ever and ever. Jason, holla at me, m'kay?!
I'm warning you now, there will probably be lots of EXPRESSIVE talk, italics, and exclamations to follow. I'll try to be
♥ The Lowdown: Tessa had to grow up quickly when she lost both her parents at a young age, and especially after she became a teenage mom at seventeen. Now at twenty-two, she's finally left to really be on her own after her older brother Cade (you may remember him from Caged in Winter, you can find my
Jason is pretty renowned for his sexual exploits and playboy lifestyle, but he's never really had reason to regret his past until recently. With his parents breathing down his neck, pressuring him to graduate college and take up his seat at the head of his family's company, he finds himself repeatedly running to the one place that's always kept him sane, Cade and Tessa's house. With Cade living in Chicago, he had asked Jason to check in on his baby sister and little niece, but now he goes more for himself rather than any obligatory duty he feels he owes his best friend. Yet, the more time he spends with Tessa and her daughter Haley, the more he finds himself questioning the feelings he has toward them both. His grandfather always preached about family and their importance, but it's with these two that he can actually picture playing house for forever.
♥ My Thoughts: SO MANY FEELINGS, Y'ALL! And. The. Chemistry?!?! RIDICULOUS. OFF THE CHARTS. UNGMAHGAWD, SO GOOD! AND SWOONS?! AND DIRTY-TALKING UNFINESS! AND THE CUTE! AND THE LITERAL, PLENTIFUL LAUGH OUT LOUD MOMENTS! (Side-barring for a moment for a brief self-peptalk: Okay, Christina, get it together. Reel it in. Play it cool. You're embarrassing yourself. Still.)
Okay, but seriously, I loved this book so so much. The characters will leap off the pages and in to your heart. (And if they don't, then I'm sorry to tell you this, friend, but you don't have one. As a matter of fact, we probably can't even be friends at this point. Best wishes upon you.) First, there's our heroine, Tessa. She's a definite lover of love, never one for short-term hookups because she always ends up getting her heart in the mix. I genuinely enjoyed her character-- how she was hesitant and thoughtful and had no problem justifying her search for Mr. Right while ignoring a sea of potential Mr. Right Nows. I also loved that this book portrayed her always as a mother first and sometimes the difficulties that come with having to think about a future that exists for more than just yourself. And her daughter Haley? Heavens, did I love that girl to bits! She was vibrant and adorable and it took little effort at all to see why Jason was just as taken with her as he was with her mom. She stole away into my heart with ease. Now that I've brought up Jason, well, I can think of absolutely nothing else. Holy unf with a giant heaping of hot damn! J was a bit of everything that I love in a complex hero. He's an unapologetic ladies' man, which has certainly developed his skills in the bedroom... and that's including his verbal skills.
"I could," he says, his voice so quiet, I barely hear him. But I do. I do, and I want exactly what he's suggesting. "I could make you feel so good, Tess."
~quote taken from the print ARC of Tessa Ever After, pg. 108
*takes a moment to fan my cheeks after remembering the full scene of what happens in that hallway* But he's also really sweet and considerate and responsible and swoony. Then there's Paige, Tessa's best friend. She has such a huge presence in this book even though her role and face-time is limited. I loved every time she had a scene in this book. She is hilarious and made me spew my drink a time or two. She should absolutely come with a screenspray warning. (I'd quote you some teasers here but they're too filthy for passerby young eyes.) We also get page (and phone time) with Adam, Winter, and Cade, which is always welcomed and appreciated.
But this review is reaching ridiculous levels so I'll wrap it up quickly. I loved the character growth both Tessa and Jason (and Cade) underwent during the course of this book. It was realistic and believable and made the characters all the more endearing, in my opinion. I enjoyed the sexytimes (Have I mentioned Jason is a dirty talker yet?). I enjoyed how the storyline was developed and how it was concluded. Lastly, I absolutely adore that Brighton gives us sweet, HEA-included epilogues.
♥ Swoons: Holy crap, I swooned my freaking face off!
♥ Swoony Teaser: The only challenge here is trying to figure out which quote to tease you with because there is so many to choose from. (I know, woe is me. There's too many swoons... said no reader ever.) But, I want you to experience all the sexier ones with Tessa on your own, so I'll pull from a scene Jason had with Haley instead.
"How long's your mom been asleep?"
"Since Doc McStuffins started." Her eyes well up as she looks at me, her bottom lip quivering. Her voice is shaky as she asks, "You're not gonna tell her, are ya?"
I probably should. Grown-up solidarity and all that, but I have a soft spot for Haley. And I'm not much for being a grown-up. "Nah, it can be our little secret. Let's get you cleaned up and to bed. It's late and you have school tomorrow."
~quote taken from the print ARC of Tessa Ever After, pg. 12
♥ Rec It? Absofreakinglutely!!! If you like reading books where you can connect with characters, swoon your face off, laugh out loud at the dialogue exchanges, root for a HEA, melt from the dirty-talk and sexytimes, and generally fall in love with, Tessa Ever After needs to be in your hands and a part of your life. You won't regret it.
Now, what does a girl have to do to complete the boy-best-friends trifecta? I think Adam needs his own book, and I know I'd be partial to him having a little Paige time in his book. (See what I did there with the play on Paige/page? No? Well, that girl is hilarious so I don't have to be. *shuffles away awkwardly clutching my worn, well-read copy of Tessa Ever After*)
♥ A very special thanks to Berkley (and one of its loveliest publicists, Ms. J Brock) for providing me with an advanced copy of this title in exchange for my honest review.
May 5, 2015
I didn't think it could get better than Cade.
Then along came Jason...
We met Tessa, her daughter Haley and Jason in Caged in Winter. Tessa is Cage's sister and Jason is one of Cage's best friends. When Cage and Winter left for a life in Chicago, you might remember that he was concerned about leaving Tessa and Haley behind since they relied on him for a lot of support and help. So, he asked Jason to step in and help. I'm sure you can see where this is going. And, it's every bit as awesome as you would think.
Tessa, Cage and Jason have been friends forever, but Tessa has often wanted to be more than that with Jason. For Jason, these feelings of more are a recent development, but no less real. The problem is... families. Cage isn't too thrilled about his manwhore BFF dating his sister. And, Jason's awful, overbearing and distant parents want nothing more than to make Tessa and Haley into Jason's trophy family in an effort to make them look better.
In addition, Haley is the most important person in Tessa's life, and the person she always has to think of first. Given Jason's noncommittal past, Tessa has a very real concern that if she lets him into hers and Haley's life, and he bails on them when things get too real, that it won't be just Tessa that gets hurt. I get her concern, and I respect it a lot. A little girl wouldn't understand if a man who had become entrenched in her life suddenly just disappeared without a word.
Tessa's lost her way a bit, though. She seems to have forgotten that the key to a happy life isn't just one thing, like stability or money. She's out there looking for what she thinks is the "perfect man" - one who has a good job and a house and a car and a 401K. These guys bore her to tears. They're not Jason. But, she dates them anyway because they fit in her image of the right guy. And, she's really feeling the burden of being a single mom and sees the benefit of having a steady someone in her life to help her out. And, in the process of her overthinking, she misses what's right in front of her.
I love her and would give my life for her. The times we spend together are my favorite in the world. But at the end of the day, when she's in bed, it's just me.
It's just me, and I can't help but want something more.
Jason may be a manwhore, but Tessa seems to have missed the fact that he's been reformed, thanks to her and Haley. Jason, in doing what Cage asked of him and hanging around more to help out, sees all the wonderful qualities in Tessa that most people overlook. And he sees what a joy Haley is to his life, which is otherwise devoid of happiness and light. Jason starts to imagine a life with her in it, and he can't shake that image. It starts a slippery slope of wants and dreams that encourage him to go after what he really wants.
I think for a second, what is she were mine. If both of them were mine. And I wonder if this is what my grandfather had always talked about - the kind of family that's worth something. The kind of family that's worth everything.
I seriously loved this book. Hard. I think I liked it more than Caged in Winter. Maybe that's because I'm a mom and Tessa is a mom. Maybe it's because there's just something about a big, sexy man who willingly dons a feather boa and has a tea party with a little girl just to see her smile. Yeah - I think that's it. Jason just took my breath away with his sheer awesomeness. They way he cared for Tessa and Haley was the stuff heroes are made of. That and the hard choices he had to make. There is no way you will not finish this book and not love Jason.
Thank goodness for the dual POV. Jason's chapters were my favorite. There was a lot to his thoughts on his relationship with his parents that factored into how he grew up to be the kind of man he is now. It lent a lot to this story. The pacing was perfect. The chemistry was smoking. The ending was all I needed it to be. I need more from Brighton Walsh like this.
Then along came Jason...
We met Tessa, her daughter Haley and Jason in Caged in Winter. Tessa is Cage's sister and Jason is one of Cage's best friends. When Cage and Winter left for a life in Chicago, you might remember that he was concerned about leaving Tessa and Haley behind since they relied on him for a lot of support and help. So, he asked Jason to step in and help. I'm sure you can see where this is going. And, it's every bit as awesome as you would think.
Tessa, Cage and Jason have been friends forever, but Tessa has often wanted to be more than that with Jason. For Jason, these feelings of more are a recent development, but no less real. The problem is... families. Cage isn't too thrilled about his manwhore BFF dating his sister. And, Jason's awful, overbearing and distant parents want nothing more than to make Tessa and Haley into Jason's trophy family in an effort to make them look better.
In addition, Haley is the most important person in Tessa's life, and the person she always has to think of first. Given Jason's noncommittal past, Tessa has a very real concern that if she lets him into hers and Haley's life, and he bails on them when things get too real, that it won't be just Tessa that gets hurt. I get her concern, and I respect it a lot. A little girl wouldn't understand if a man who had become entrenched in her life suddenly just disappeared without a word.
Tessa's lost her way a bit, though. She seems to have forgotten that the key to a happy life isn't just one thing, like stability or money. She's out there looking for what she thinks is the "perfect man" - one who has a good job and a house and a car and a 401K. These guys bore her to tears. They're not Jason. But, she dates them anyway because they fit in her image of the right guy. And, she's really feeling the burden of being a single mom and sees the benefit of having a steady someone in her life to help her out. And, in the process of her overthinking, she misses what's right in front of her.
I love her and would give my life for her. The times we spend together are my favorite in the world. But at the end of the day, when she's in bed, it's just me.
It's just me, and I can't help but want something more.
Jason may be a manwhore, but Tessa seems to have missed the fact that he's been reformed, thanks to her and Haley. Jason, in doing what Cage asked of him and hanging around more to help out, sees all the wonderful qualities in Tessa that most people overlook. And he sees what a joy Haley is to his life, which is otherwise devoid of happiness and light. Jason starts to imagine a life with her in it, and he can't shake that image. It starts a slippery slope of wants and dreams that encourage him to go after what he really wants.
I think for a second, what is she were mine. If both of them were mine. And I wonder if this is what my grandfather had always talked about - the kind of family that's worth something. The kind of family that's worth everything.
I seriously loved this book. Hard. I think I liked it more than Caged in Winter. Maybe that's because I'm a mom and Tessa is a mom. Maybe it's because there's just something about a big, sexy man who willingly dons a feather boa and has a tea party with a little girl just to see her smile. Yeah - I think that's it. Jason just took my breath away with his sheer awesomeness. They way he cared for Tessa and Haley was the stuff heroes are made of. That and the hard choices he had to make. There is no way you will not finish this book and not love Jason.
Thank goodness for the dual POV. Jason's chapters were my favorite. There was a lot to his thoughts on his relationship with his parents that factored into how he grew up to be the kind of man he is now. It lent a lot to this story. The pacing was perfect. The chemistry was smoking. The ending was all I needed it to be. I need more from Brighton Walsh like this.
May 3, 2015
Tessa Ever After is a sweet story of a young couple that have known each other since childhood. Tessa is a single mother with a 4 year old. Her brother Cade's best friend Jason steps in to help out when Cade moves to Chicago. As Jason spends more time helping out Tessa, he realizes that he is attracted to her. Tessa also feels the attraction but she worries about Jason's reputation as a player.
The story is told in first person alternating points of view so the reader always has a glimpse of what Tessa and Jason are thinking. At times the narration is a little angsty and gives a little too much information. Tessa seems to overthink and Jason keeps waiting for Tessa to tell him what she wants. There is, however, comic relief in the form of the cutest and probably best behaved 4 year old girl Haley. It's fun watching her make Jason dress up for a tea party.
I enjoyed this story, especially when our happy couple got together. Their chemistry was amazing. I'll be on the lookout for more books by this author in the future.
Thank you to NetGalley and Penguin Group Berkley NAL for a review copy of this book.
The story is told in first person alternating points of view so the reader always has a glimpse of what Tessa and Jason are thinking. At times the narration is a little angsty and gives a little too much information. Tessa seems to overthink and Jason keeps waiting for Tessa to tell him what she wants. There is, however, comic relief in the form of the cutest and probably best behaved 4 year old girl Haley. It's fun watching her make Jason dress up for a tea party.
I enjoyed this story, especially when our happy couple got together. Their chemistry was amazing. I'll be on the lookout for more books by this author in the future.
Thank you to NetGalley and Penguin Group Berkley NAL for a review copy of this book.
April 10, 2015
I love Brighton Walsh! Seriously... LOVE! Every book I've read from her I've thoroughly enjoyed and am always looking for more! Full review to follow soon.
For more info and reviews please visit my Book Review Blog here - A Life Bound By Books
For more info and reviews please visit my Book Review Blog here - A Life Bound By Books
May 5, 2015
More Reviews Here: Readers Live A Thousand Lives
Last year I read Caged In Winter and in one fell swoop I fell in love with the book and discovered a new great author. I had really high hopes for Tessa Ever After and this book did not disappoint. I would even go as far to say that this is my favorite Brighton book to date. I devoured this story and I fell in love with the characters, the main ones and the secondary ones.
Tessa is an incredible woman and I give her all the credit in the world. I can’t even imagine balancing all of the responsibility she does and I admire her so much for it. She puts her daughter first in everything and it really takes a toll on her when she feels like she can’t keep up anymore. She is so strong and so brave and a wonderful mom.
And then we had Jason who I absolutely adored. Gahh I loved him so much. He fit in so well with Tessa and Hayley. The scenes with him and Hayley absolutely melted my heart… nail polish and hats and feather boas galore. Not only did he fall for Tessa but he fell for Hayley too and that was so important. Both of them were incredibly important to him and they came as a package deal. Hayley had Jason wrapped around her little finger and he loved it.
Now I wanna talk about that little cutie Hayley because she was such a sweetheart and so funny. She stole the show on so many occasions. I will never call lipstick anything other than blipstick again. I also absolutely adored Paige! She was such a great friend to Tessa and I loved that! I always love it when a book portrays a positive and strong female friendship. So many times books use the friendship and twists it and makes drama, but I love when a book shows that a friendship can be just that, a friendship. I think Paige needs a book next. Adam could also use a book… possibly together? *puppy dog eyes*
Tessa Ever After is everything I want from a new adult book but it doesn’t follow the typical formula. It has its own distinct feel and flair to it. Tessa and Jason together are so incredible and I loved them so much. Their chemistry is amazing and I love that they are such good friends as well. They both deserved to finally find this happiness together. And it is even sweeter because it came along when neither one was really expecting it.
All in all, Tessa Ever After was such a great read and I absolutely loved Jason and Tessa. New adult fans, you do not want to miss this series!
Last year I read Caged In Winter and in one fell swoop I fell in love with the book and discovered a new great author. I had really high hopes for Tessa Ever After and this book did not disappoint. I would even go as far to say that this is my favorite Brighton book to date. I devoured this story and I fell in love with the characters, the main ones and the secondary ones.
Tessa is an incredible woman and I give her all the credit in the world. I can’t even imagine balancing all of the responsibility she does and I admire her so much for it. She puts her daughter first in everything and it really takes a toll on her when she feels like she can’t keep up anymore. She is so strong and so brave and a wonderful mom.
And then we had Jason who I absolutely adored. Gahh I loved him so much. He fit in so well with Tessa and Hayley. The scenes with him and Hayley absolutely melted my heart… nail polish and hats and feather boas galore. Not only did he fall for Tessa but he fell for Hayley too and that was so important. Both of them were incredibly important to him and they came as a package deal. Hayley had Jason wrapped around her little finger and he loved it.
Now I wanna talk about that little cutie Hayley because she was such a sweetheart and so funny. She stole the show on so many occasions. I will never call lipstick anything other than blipstick again. I also absolutely adored Paige! She was such a great friend to Tessa and I loved that! I always love it when a book portrays a positive and strong female friendship. So many times books use the friendship and twists it and makes drama, but I love when a book shows that a friendship can be just that, a friendship. I think Paige needs a book next. Adam could also use a book… possibly together? *puppy dog eyes*
Tessa Ever After is everything I want from a new adult book but it doesn’t follow the typical formula. It has its own distinct feel and flair to it. Tessa and Jason together are so incredible and I loved them so much. Their chemistry is amazing and I love that they are such good friends as well. They both deserved to finally find this happiness together. And it is even sweeter because it came along when neither one was really expecting it.
All in all, Tessa Ever After was such a great read and I absolutely loved Jason and Tessa. New adult fans, you do not want to miss this series!
April 19, 2023
I need to stop going to tiktok for trope recs. There was nothing glaringly wrong with this. It was just very dull.
March 23, 2020
Find this review and more at
kimberlyfaye reads
.
As the ending approached, I wanted to find a way to stop time and keep living inside this book. Everything from the characters and their stories to the writing left me hopelessly addicted and unable to think about anything else once I started. (And long after I finished, too.) This book was chock full o' feels and I'm not sure I can adequately express how much I loved it.
Tessa Ever After truly is the best of new adult. This is one of my top five reads of the year so far, and I'm pretty sure it'll end the year high on that list. I didn't think I could love anyone more than Cade and Winter. I couldn't have been more wrong. In reality, I actually loved Tessa and Jason even more. (Shhh… don't tell… I don't like to play favorites.) I don't know what the plan is for this series, but I hope there's more. Like, maybe a book about Paige and Adam? (hint hint) I think they could be incredible together.
In this book, single mom Tessa is feeling overwhelmed by life. Her brother Cade has left to chase his dreams – and she's happy for him – but she's struggling to raise her daughter Haley without his help. He's always been there for them and she's having a difficult time balancing everything without his help. Tessa's a great mom, but she's feeling the pressure of doing it all on her own. Cade's best friend, Jason, keeps popping in when she needed him most – even if she didn't actually ask for the help.
Jason promised Cade he wouldn't ever pursue his sister, but that's a promise he's finding more and more difficult to keep as he spends time with her and her daughter, Haley. He definitely feels a connection to both of them and it comes through in all his actions. I loved watching things develop between him and Tessa because it felt so real and right. But even more than that, I loved the scenes in which he spent time with Haley. You want to talk about things that will make you melt? OMG. My heart melted and I swooned big time. I swear, I'll never be the same.
I probably don't need to tell you I loved Tessa and Jason together, but I'm going to anyhow. As much as I adored these characters on their own, something special happened when they were together. They had tons of chemistry and a long history of friendship and supporting the other. It was natural that feelings would start to shift into something more than friendship once Cade was no longer there to police them. (Don't get me wrong, I LOVED Cade, but I think he was wrong in this situation… though I can't entirely fault him for wanting to save his sister from becoming simply a notch on Jason's bedpost. Which is exactly what I think probably would've happened had they tried anything before now. Jason wasn't ready for more before.) I loved watching Tessa, Jason and Haley become a sort of family on their own. I get all smiley just even thinking about it now.
There's not an abundance of angsty drama in this book – something I'm grateful for – but there is a little bit. Jason's family pissed me off from the start, but it only got worse. His mother. Ugh. Without getting spoilery, the biggest situation happens late in the book and it broke my heart (more than) just a little. I knew Jason's motivations were honorable, but Tessa didn't and I hated seeing her hurt. But holy grand gesture. I melt into a puddle just thinking about it… and, of course, I was in tears while reading it. *squees*
Even if you're not a huge new adult fan, you should take a chance on this book this series. You won't be disappointed. If anything, you'll fall in love and be anxiously awaiting the next book as much as I am. I wish I could give it more than five stars.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher, via one awesome friend, in exchange for an honest review.
As the ending approached, I wanted to find a way to stop time and keep living inside this book. Everything from the characters and their stories to the writing left me hopelessly addicted and unable to think about anything else once I started. (And long after I finished, too.) This book was chock full o' feels and I'm not sure I can adequately express how much I loved it.
Tessa Ever After truly is the best of new adult. This is one of my top five reads of the year so far, and I'm pretty sure it'll end the year high on that list. I didn't think I could love anyone more than Cade and Winter. I couldn't have been more wrong. In reality, I actually loved Tessa and Jason even more. (Shhh… don't tell… I don't like to play favorites.) I don't know what the plan is for this series, but I hope there's more. Like, maybe a book about Paige and Adam? (hint hint) I think they could be incredible together.
In this book, single mom Tessa is feeling overwhelmed by life. Her brother Cade has left to chase his dreams – and she's happy for him – but she's struggling to raise her daughter Haley without his help. He's always been there for them and she's having a difficult time balancing everything without his help. Tessa's a great mom, but she's feeling the pressure of doing it all on her own. Cade's best friend, Jason, keeps popping in when she needed him most – even if she didn't actually ask for the help.
Jason promised Cade he wouldn't ever pursue his sister, but that's a promise he's finding more and more difficult to keep as he spends time with her and her daughter, Haley. He definitely feels a connection to both of them and it comes through in all his actions. I loved watching things develop between him and Tessa because it felt so real and right. But even more than that, I loved the scenes in which he spent time with Haley. You want to talk about things that will make you melt? OMG. My heart melted and I swooned big time. I swear, I'll never be the same.
I probably don't need to tell you I loved Tessa and Jason together, but I'm going to anyhow. As much as I adored these characters on their own, something special happened when they were together. They had tons of chemistry and a long history of friendship and supporting the other. It was natural that feelings would start to shift into something more than friendship once Cade was no longer there to police them. (Don't get me wrong, I LOVED Cade, but I think he was wrong in this situation… though I can't entirely fault him for wanting to save his sister from becoming simply a notch on Jason's bedpost. Which is exactly what I think probably would've happened had they tried anything before now. Jason wasn't ready for more before.) I loved watching Tessa, Jason and Haley become a sort of family on their own. I get all smiley just even thinking about it now.
There's not an abundance of angsty drama in this book – something I'm grateful for – but there is a little bit. Jason's family pissed me off from the start, but it only got worse. His mother. Ugh. Without getting spoilery, the biggest situation happens late in the book and it broke my heart (more than) just a little. I knew Jason's motivations were honorable, but Tessa didn't and I hated seeing her hurt. But holy grand gesture. I melt into a puddle just thinking about it… and, of course, I was in tears while reading it. *squees*
Even if you're not a huge new adult fan, you should take a chance on this book this series. You won't be disappointed. If anything, you'll fall in love and be anxiously awaiting the next book as much as I am. I wish I could give it more than five stars.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher, via one awesome friend, in exchange for an honest review.
May 18, 2015
Review can be seen
here
on Books and Swoons.
My rating: 4.5 stars out of 5 stars
*I received an eARC from the publisher, however, that does not influence this review in any way.*
JASOOOOONNNN. Sigh. Jason Jason Jason. This book is SO good. I think it might even be my favorite from Brighton's work and Jason is a big part of it. I've always been a fan of Brighton's but she certainly blew me away with Tessa Ever After.
Tessa Ever After is a companion to Caged in Winter and it picks up a few months from where CiW left us. Tessa, Cade's younger sister, is a single mom and after having Cade always around, is now juggling to keep everything going smoothly. She feels like a big failure since she has been, repeatedly, late in picking up her daughter, Haley, and having trouble attending to little surprises at home. Thankfully, Jason, Cade's best friend, is around to help her after Cade asked him to keep an eye on Tessa. Of course, what happens next is how neither of them were planning on falling for the other.
I loved all the characters in this book. Brighton always manage to create characters so real that you can just picture them in real life. Tessa is such a great character and I just loved being in her head. There were so many times where insecurities and fears came up but it never felt overboard or wrong for her to have them. In fact, I felt all of her emotions at the same time she did. Haley is the cutest thing ever and I'm definitely in love with her. It also help that my niece is named Haley as well and I can just picture being just like Haley in the book. Paige, Tessa's best friend, oh my gosh, I love her and her straight up honesty. She is such a good balance for Tessa and I just hope that we can get a book on her.
Now, about Jason. JASONNNNN. Oh God. What can I say about Jason? Um....well, he's a hot, sweet, swoony, and a dirty talker and he know how good he is. That's not to say he is not serious or real. He has his reasons for being a playboy but despite that, he is aware of everything he needs to do. Once he realized that he might have feelings for Tessa, he knew he just couldn't mess around with her considering he is Cade's best friend and how attached he is to Haley. He also knew he couldn't just push Tessa and when to give her her space. So even though he is a cocky playboy, he has the perfect balance when to push and when to be serious. He is definitely my favorite from Brighton's heroes.
Tessa Ever After was such a quick read and I devoured it in a couple of days. It probably would have been even faster if I didn't have that pesky issue of work/school/wedding planning to deal with. Brighton Walsh has done it again and given us a great story, sexy times, laughter, and character development. I've said this before but I'll say it again, I'll read anything Brighton writes and this book proves why I'll do so. So go forth and read this!
My rating: 4.5 stars out of 5 stars
*I received an eARC from the publisher, however, that does not influence this review in any way.*
JASOOOOONNNN. Sigh. Jason Jason Jason. This book is SO good. I think it might even be my favorite from Brighton's work and Jason is a big part of it. I've always been a fan of Brighton's but she certainly blew me away with Tessa Ever After.
Tessa Ever After is a companion to Caged in Winter and it picks up a few months from where CiW left us. Tessa, Cade's younger sister, is a single mom and after having Cade always around, is now juggling to keep everything going smoothly. She feels like a big failure since she has been, repeatedly, late in picking up her daughter, Haley, and having trouble attending to little surprises at home. Thankfully, Jason, Cade's best friend, is around to help her after Cade asked him to keep an eye on Tessa. Of course, what happens next is how neither of them were planning on falling for the other.
I loved all the characters in this book. Brighton always manage to create characters so real that you can just picture them in real life. Tessa is such a great character and I just loved being in her head. There were so many times where insecurities and fears came up but it never felt overboard or wrong for her to have them. In fact, I felt all of her emotions at the same time she did. Haley is the cutest thing ever and I'm definitely in love with her. It also help that my niece is named Haley as well and I can just picture being just like Haley in the book. Paige, Tessa's best friend, oh my gosh, I love her and her straight up honesty. She is such a good balance for Tessa and I just hope that we can get a book on her.
Now, about Jason. JASONNNNN. Oh God. What can I say about Jason? Um....well, he's a hot, sweet, swoony, and a dirty talker and he know how good he is. That's not to say he is not serious or real. He has his reasons for being a playboy but despite that, he is aware of everything he needs to do. Once he realized that he might have feelings for Tessa, he knew he just couldn't mess around with her considering he is Cade's best friend and how attached he is to Haley. He also knew he couldn't just push Tessa and when to give her her space. So even though he is a cocky playboy, he has the perfect balance when to push and when to be serious. He is definitely my favorite from Brighton's heroes.
Tessa Ever After was such a quick read and I devoured it in a couple of days. It probably would have been even faster if I didn't have that pesky issue of work/school/wedding planning to deal with. Brighton Walsh has done it again and given us a great story, sexy times, laughter, and character development. I've said this before but I'll say it again, I'll read anything Brighton writes and this book proves why I'll do so. So go forth and read this!
August 3, 2015
It’s official. Brighton Walsh writes the swooniest guys, ever. I didn’t think she could top Cade but, dang, if Jason didn’t give him a run for his money.
Tessa Ever After is literally perfect. There’s a crazy amount of chemistry, good dialogue, great writing, lots of swoons, and I just loved everything. I have so many feelings about Tessa Ever After. I’m not sure I’m going to be able to properly review this.
Tessa and Jason have known each other forever. They grew up together. Tessa is Cade’s little sister and Jason is his best friend. After Cade moves out of state, Tessa finds herself struggling to balance work and taking care of her young daughter. She needs help and didn’t realize just how much Cade helped her..until he was gone. This is when Jason steps into the picture, to help her out. Cade has asked Jason to stop in and check on Tessa. The two of them have chemistry and Jason begins thinking about Tessa in ways that he hasn’t before. The more time he spends with Tessa and her daughter, the more his attraction grows. He begins to doubt that he will be good enough for Tessa.
You all know that I loved Caged In Winter, well, *whispers* I liked Tessa Ever After more. I can’t really pinpoint exactly why, both books have stellar writing and amazing characters, but I just found myself loving Jason and Tessa more than Cade and Winter.
Jason and Tessa were likable and great characters when they’re alone, but when they got together-OH. MY. GOD. The chemistry was off-the-charts, and *fans self* Jason is a dirty talker. So, yeah, their scenes together was smokin’ hot.
My heart was on the verge of exploding from happiness during the scenes with Jason and Tessa’s daughter, Haley. Jason really cared deeply for Haley and Tessa.
What I love most about this book is that there wasn’t any unnecessary drama, and nothing that happened that made me roll my eyes. Not once. The characters have flaws and are likable, the plot is realistic, and everything about this book is perfect.
If you’re looking for a new NA series to read, I HIGHLY recommend that you check out these books. Brighton’s writing sucks you in and she creates characters that you can relate to. Her stories are low on the drama but you will find yourself thinking about them days, even months, after you finish reading them. And who doesn’t like swoony guys? Because her men are the swooniest. Seriously, you will swoon like you have never done before. And the writing? It’s stellar. Flawless. I can’t recommend this series enough.
Tessa Ever After is literally perfect. There’s a crazy amount of chemistry, good dialogue, great writing, lots of swoons, and I just loved everything. I have so many feelings about Tessa Ever After. I’m not sure I’m going to be able to properly review this.
Tessa and Jason have known each other forever. They grew up together. Tessa is Cade’s little sister and Jason is his best friend. After Cade moves out of state, Tessa finds herself struggling to balance work and taking care of her young daughter. She needs help and didn’t realize just how much Cade helped her..until he was gone. This is when Jason steps into the picture, to help her out. Cade has asked Jason to stop in and check on Tessa. The two of them have chemistry and Jason begins thinking about Tessa in ways that he hasn’t before. The more time he spends with Tessa and her daughter, the more his attraction grows. He begins to doubt that he will be good enough for Tessa.
You all know that I loved Caged In Winter, well, *whispers* I liked Tessa Ever After more. I can’t really pinpoint exactly why, both books have stellar writing and amazing characters, but I just found myself loving Jason and Tessa more than Cade and Winter.
Jason and Tessa were likable and great characters when they’re alone, but when they got together-OH. MY. GOD. The chemistry was off-the-charts, and *fans self* Jason is a dirty talker. So, yeah, their scenes together was smokin’ hot.
My heart was on the verge of exploding from happiness during the scenes with Jason and Tessa’s daughter, Haley. Jason really cared deeply for Haley and Tessa.
What I love most about this book is that there wasn’t any unnecessary drama, and nothing that happened that made me roll my eyes. Not once. The characters have flaws and are likable, the plot is realistic, and everything about this book is perfect.
If you’re looking for a new NA series to read, I HIGHLY recommend that you check out these books. Brighton’s writing sucks you in and she creates characters that you can relate to. Her stories are low on the drama but you will find yourself thinking about them days, even months, after you finish reading them. And who doesn’t like swoony guys? Because her men are the swooniest. Seriously, you will swoon like you have never done before. And the writing? It’s stellar. Flawless. I can’t recommend this series enough.
November 26, 2016
5 stars.
Tessa Ever After is everything I want in a book--swoonworthy hero, sexy sexy times, and an awesome storyline.
I didn't want to love Jason as much as I loved Cade (from Caged in Winter), but damn if I could help myself. In case you didn't read that book (and you really should!), Tessa is Cade's little sister. When Cade moves away, his best friend, Jason, steps up to look out for her. You know how I feel about falling for the best friend's little sister stories, and Tessa Ever After is one of my faves. As Jason and Tessa fall for each other, there's a little drama, but there's mostly flailworthy swoon that will leave a grin on your face forever. There's crazy chemistry and lots of heartmelty moments between them, especially Jason and Tessa's daughter, Haley.
Walsh definitely wrote a quintessential new adult book here, and I cannot wait for more from her. If you love sassy heroines and dirty talking heroes who are so sexy you'll hardly be able to stand it, you've got to read Tessa Ever After. I can't recommend it enough!
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For more reviews and bookish talk, visit our blog at Pretty Sassy Cool
Tessa Ever After is everything I want in a book--swoonworthy hero, sexy sexy times, and an awesome storyline.
I didn't want to love Jason as much as I loved Cade (from Caged in Winter), but damn if I could help myself. In case you didn't read that book (and you really should!), Tessa is Cade's little sister. When Cade moves away, his best friend, Jason, steps up to look out for her. You know how I feel about falling for the best friend's little sister stories, and Tessa Ever After is one of my faves. As Jason and Tessa fall for each other, there's a little drama, but there's mostly flailworthy swoon that will leave a grin on your face forever. There's crazy chemistry and lots of heartmelty moments between them, especially Jason and Tessa's daughter, Haley.
Walsh definitely wrote a quintessential new adult book here, and I cannot wait for more from her. If you love sassy heroines and dirty talking heroes who are so sexy you'll hardly be able to stand it, you've got to read Tessa Ever After. I can't recommend it enough!
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For more reviews and bookish talk, visit our blog at Pretty Sassy Cool
May 25, 2015
One of the defining features of a good novel is compelling characterization. Sure, we have to find the hero and heroine relatable, but it’s always a bonus when secondary characters add to the story in meaningful ways. Brighton Walsh is a dynamo at doing just this. We fall in love with her leading men and ladies, but then we also really like their family/friends! And isn’t it just perfect that Brighton is willing to explore those secondary stories?! Tessa Ever After is a sequel which follows the story of Cade’s younger sister and his best friend from Caged in Winter. Tessa is a well-written and sweet friends-to-lovers story. There’s genuine friendship, sexy romance, and dramatic elements, all of which are engaging and entertaining.
***Read the full review at We So Nerdy!
***Read the full review at We So Nerdy!
May 25, 2017
This was one of those books that I found for pretty cheap. When I got home and read the reviews, I was pretty excited that I picked something up that actually have extremely high ratings. Then I was overly disappointed.
After a certain point I found myself screaming at this book. Maybe you shouldn't have slept with him!!? No, you shouldn't have? Why!? Did you sleep with a fake!? I became frustrated and annoyed way too quickly.
At first this pulled me into a world where I wished and hoped things would grow between Tessa and Jason. I wanted them to find love and comfort in each other and then it happened. It went from sweet to the sky is falling fake within a few pages. Instant regret!
Review to come once my blood pressure lowers!
After a certain point I found myself screaming at this book. Maybe you shouldn't have slept with him!!? No, you shouldn't have? Why!? Did you sleep with a fake!? I became frustrated and annoyed way too quickly.
At first this pulled me into a world where I wished and hoped things would grow between Tessa and Jason. I wanted them to find love and comfort in each other and then it happened. It went from sweet to the sky is falling fake within a few pages. Instant regret!
Review to come once my blood pressure lowers!
May 6, 2015
5 heartwarming stars
LOVED Tessa Ever After!
Can't stop smiling, so many feels.
Tessa and Jason are HOT HOT HOT!
I loved seeing Jason with Tessa's little girl Haley, my heart was going to burst with all the emotions!
That little girl had him wrapped around her cute little finger and he couldn't have cared less.
It's been a few days since I finished this book and I'm still smiling =)
I love Brighton Walsh's writing and highly recommend all her work especially this book!
I received an advance copy in exchange for my honest thoughts
LOVED Tessa Ever After!
Can't stop smiling, so many feels.
Tessa and Jason are HOT HOT HOT!
I loved seeing Jason with Tessa's little girl Haley, my heart was going to burst with all the emotions!
That little girl had him wrapped around her cute little finger and he couldn't have cared less.
It's been a few days since I finished this book and I'm still smiling =)
I love Brighton Walsh's writing and highly recommend all her work especially this book!
I received an advance copy in exchange for my honest thoughts
July 24, 2015
so so so good, best friend's sibling is my crack.
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December 13, 2022
*3.5 Stars!*
May 2, 2015
**You can see this full review and more at Book Briefs: http://bookbriefs.net**
I bow down to Brighton Walsh. She is offically one of my favorite New Adult authors. And the Caged in Winter series is one of my favorite New Adult romances. I loved Cage and Winter so hard last year, and now Tessa and Jason have stolen my heart! I don't even know who I liked more, and that is something that I did not expect to say before reading Tessa Ever After. I expected to love the book because Brighton Walsh writes amazing romances, but Cage and Winter were one of my favorite book couples of last year, so I didn't think that Tessa and Jason would come close to topping them. But they did. I love them both. And before I just start to fan-girl over Brighton Walsh, I will tell you why I actually loved Tessa Ever After.
Tessa is Cage's sister, and she has had to grow up rather quickly. She got pregnant with her daughter Haley when she was 17, and it was just Tessa and her brother taking care of her. When Cage moved away to become a chef, Tessa is left juggling a million different hats, and she is finding out just how hard it is to maintain a house, a full time job that barely pays the bills, and a very, very energetic little girl. Thank goodness for Jason. He is so good to Haley and Tessa. I liked him right off the bat. He is always there for her. And poor Tessa is doing a great job juggling everything, but all she can focus on are her mistakes or the areas where she doesn't think she is measuring up as a mom. I can relate because I am probably a little too hard and critical of myself too. But Jason and her friends were a wonderful support system for Tessa. I loved the group of people she surrounded herself with. And I loved the chemistry that her and Jason have.
Oh boy, do they have chemistry. I need to stop for a moment and fan myself. Jason and Tessa have known each other for years so they already had a great and solid friendship foundation. He knew Haley and they loved each other. I am not a kid person, and I don't typically like to read about them in my books, but Haley is just too cute to dislike. And I loved how Jason was with her. There didn't seem to be a as much drama as there was in the first book. And when there was drama it came from Jason's family. It was kind of interesting and I wanted to know how the whole family foundation was going to work out. It complemented the romance very well.
I want there to be more books in this series! The Caged in Winter series is one that I would recommend to everyone. Whether you are a fan of new adult or not, you need to read this book. Each book works as a standalone so you can totally start with Tessa Ever After and follow the story and characters just fine, but if you can, I would suggest starting with Caged in Winter and then read Tessa Ever After. They are both such wonderful books. Brighton Walsh has now cemented herself on my 'read-anything-by-her,-auto-buy-author' bookshelf. She is incredible. Tessa Ever After is on my favorites of 2015 list for sure.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
I bow down to Brighton Walsh. She is offically one of my favorite New Adult authors. And the Caged in Winter series is one of my favorite New Adult romances. I loved Cage and Winter so hard last year, and now Tessa and Jason have stolen my heart! I don't even know who I liked more, and that is something that I did not expect to say before reading Tessa Ever After. I expected to love the book because Brighton Walsh writes amazing romances, but Cage and Winter were one of my favorite book couples of last year, so I didn't think that Tessa and Jason would come close to topping them. But they did. I love them both. And before I just start to fan-girl over Brighton Walsh, I will tell you why I actually loved Tessa Ever After.
Tessa is Cage's sister, and she has had to grow up rather quickly. She got pregnant with her daughter Haley when she was 17, and it was just Tessa and her brother taking care of her. When Cage moved away to become a chef, Tessa is left juggling a million different hats, and she is finding out just how hard it is to maintain a house, a full time job that barely pays the bills, and a very, very energetic little girl. Thank goodness for Jason. He is so good to Haley and Tessa. I liked him right off the bat. He is always there for her. And poor Tessa is doing a great job juggling everything, but all she can focus on are her mistakes or the areas where she doesn't think she is measuring up as a mom. I can relate because I am probably a little too hard and critical of myself too. But Jason and her friends were a wonderful support system for Tessa. I loved the group of people she surrounded herself with. And I loved the chemistry that her and Jason have.
Oh boy, do they have chemistry. I need to stop for a moment and fan myself. Jason and Tessa have known each other for years so they already had a great and solid friendship foundation. He knew Haley and they loved each other. I am not a kid person, and I don't typically like to read about them in my books, but Haley is just too cute to dislike. And I loved how Jason was with her. There didn't seem to be a as much drama as there was in the first book. And when there was drama it came from Jason's family. It was kind of interesting and I wanted to know how the whole family foundation was going to work out. It complemented the romance very well.
I want there to be more books in this series! The Caged in Winter series is one that I would recommend to everyone. Whether you are a fan of new adult or not, you need to read this book. Each book works as a standalone so you can totally start with Tessa Ever After and follow the story and characters just fine, but if you can, I would suggest starting with Caged in Winter and then read Tessa Ever After. They are both such wonderful books. Brighton Walsh has now cemented herself on my 'read-anything-by-her,-auto-buy-author' bookshelf. She is incredible. Tessa Ever After is on my favorites of 2015 list for sure.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
July 13, 2016
So guys,
Jason and Tessa have known each other for years. Her brother Cade is Jason's best friend. When Cade gets a job offer that he can't refuse, he leaves the state, thus leaving Jason with the important role of looking after Tessa and her daughter, Haley. Jason takes his new role seriously. From playdates with Haley to late night venting sessions with Tessa, Jason has become this solid rock that Tessa comes to rely on most. Then the feelings, which have been lurking under the surface, start coming out and both must decide just how important the other is.
Brighton Walsh captured my heart with Caged in Winter, the story of Tessa's older brother Cade and his now girlfriend Winter. But with Tessa Ever After, she stole it completely. These characters that she's created - this odd family of sorts - seem so real that it's almost like you're listening to an old friend talk about their life rather than reading a story.
Tessa was young when she became a mom, but she adapted quick - she had to. Haley is her world. This, plus losing her parents, meant that she really had no one but her brother. When he leaves, her life is thrown into chaos. Gone is the structure that once comforted her, now she's struggling to pick up her daughter from day care on time, cook dinner, and just be a mom.
Jason comes from a family of wealth - but with strings. His parents expect him to take over the family business, something that Jason wants no part of. Afraid to tell his parents this, he acts out in other ways - mostly chain hookups. But one thing that he will always do is drop everything when Tessa calls. Slowly, without him even realizing it, Tessa and Haley become his world. Something that he knows shouldn't be, and not even because it's his best friends sister, but because Tessa deserves more than what Jason thinks he can give her.
I absolutely loved everything about this book. Every action that every character did made sense. Walsh wrote them in such a perfect way that even when they should have pissed me off, I wasn't mad. It was in their nature to act as they did and I was just along for the ride. The growth that both of these characters go through is plain to see. Jason's is a little more obvious as he's struggling to break free of his parents. But even with Tessa, a girl who's had to grow up before her time, is still learning about herself and what she wants vs what she thinks she needs.
Throw in an adorable child and I wanted more. Especially scenes with Haley and Jason. There is just something about a grown man playing dress up with a little girl that just melts the heart. And melt it he did, like polar ice cap melting.
The chemistry between these two was just off the charts which led to some great sexy times. But there were also the moments of true friendship, of two people supporting each other, that just made this come full circle for me. It wasn't just about finding love with each other, it was about finding themselves, as corny as that sounds. It's rare that a sequel surpasses the first, but this one certainly did. Ahhh, writing this review has made me want to reread it. Everyone needs to read this one. Right now!
Jason and Tessa have known each other for years. Her brother Cade is Jason's best friend. When Cade gets a job offer that he can't refuse, he leaves the state, thus leaving Jason with the important role of looking after Tessa and her daughter, Haley. Jason takes his new role seriously. From playdates with Haley to late night venting sessions with Tessa, Jason has become this solid rock that Tessa comes to rely on most. Then the feelings, which have been lurking under the surface, start coming out and both must decide just how important the other is.
Brighton Walsh captured my heart with Caged in Winter, the story of Tessa's older brother Cade and his now girlfriend Winter. But with Tessa Ever After, she stole it completely. These characters that she's created - this odd family of sorts - seem so real that it's almost like you're listening to an old friend talk about their life rather than reading a story.
Tessa was young when she became a mom, but she adapted quick - she had to. Haley is her world. This, plus losing her parents, meant that she really had no one but her brother. When he leaves, her life is thrown into chaos. Gone is the structure that once comforted her, now she's struggling to pick up her daughter from day care on time, cook dinner, and just be a mom.
Jason comes from a family of wealth - but with strings. His parents expect him to take over the family business, something that Jason wants no part of. Afraid to tell his parents this, he acts out in other ways - mostly chain hookups. But one thing that he will always do is drop everything when Tessa calls. Slowly, without him even realizing it, Tessa and Haley become his world. Something that he knows shouldn't be, and not even because it's his best friends sister, but because Tessa deserves more than what Jason thinks he can give her.
I absolutely loved everything about this book. Every action that every character did made sense. Walsh wrote them in such a perfect way that even when they should have pissed me off, I wasn't mad. It was in their nature to act as they did and I was just along for the ride. The growth that both of these characters go through is plain to see. Jason's is a little more obvious as he's struggling to break free of his parents. But even with Tessa, a girl who's had to grow up before her time, is still learning about herself and what she wants vs what she thinks she needs.
Throw in an adorable child and I wanted more. Especially scenes with Haley and Jason. There is just something about a grown man playing dress up with a little girl that just melts the heart. And melt it he did, like polar ice cap melting.
The chemistry between these two was just off the charts which led to some great sexy times. But there were also the moments of true friendship, of two people supporting each other, that just made this come full circle for me. It wasn't just about finding love with each other, it was about finding themselves, as corny as that sounds. It's rare that a sequel surpasses the first, but this one certainly did. Ahhh, writing this review has made me want to reread it. Everyone needs to read this one. Right now!
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