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Librarian's note: This is an alternate cover edition for ASIN: B0085BEENU.
When tragedy strikes in the ring, Giovanni Bravo falls into a deep depression, walking away from his dream of boxing to train instead. He agrees to a two month get-away, helping train Felix Sanchez, his high school best friend and now welterweight champ of the world. Once at Felix’s lavish boxing complex, he’s reunited with Bianca Rubio, someone he remembers only as the girl with the innocent doe eyes back in high school. Her refreshing, cheerful demeanor not only takes Gio’s mind off his troubled conscience, he finds himself falling for her fast and hard. The problem—Bianca is Felix’s girlfriend.
Having a sexy, famous boyfriend has its perks, but they come with a price. Bianca not only has to deal with the ongoing tabloid rumors about her boyfriend hooking with other women, but also his constant absence when he is on the road. So now that Felix will be in town for two whole months to train for his next big bout, Bianca is thrilled. He’s even asked her to move into his cabin while he's there. But when he leaves for days at a time to promote his fight, Bianca spends time getting to know Felix’s gorgeous new trainer and good friend, Gio. Increasingly drawn to his sweet smile and smoldering green eyes, she finds herself saying and doing things she normally wouldn’t.
As it becomes more and more difficult for each to resist the other, Gio crosses the line between them. He hopes that one kiss will alleviate the overwhelming temptation and clear both their systems, but it does just the opposite. Their temptation suddenly becomes an obsession--an obsession quickly forces Gio to realize this is more than just lust. He's fallen hard and to his delight so has she. Now he's forced to make the hardest decision of his life. Risk losing his long time friend or walk away from the only girl he's ever loved.
Adult Contemporary romance
When tragedy strikes in the ring, Giovanni Bravo falls into a deep depression, walking away from his dream of boxing to train instead. He agrees to a two month get-away, helping train Felix Sanchez, his high school best friend and now welterweight champ of the world. Once at Felix’s lavish boxing complex, he’s reunited with Bianca Rubio, someone he remembers only as the girl with the innocent doe eyes back in high school. Her refreshing, cheerful demeanor not only takes Gio’s mind off his troubled conscience, he finds himself falling for her fast and hard. The problem—Bianca is Felix’s girlfriend.
Having a sexy, famous boyfriend has its perks, but they come with a price. Bianca not only has to deal with the ongoing tabloid rumors about her boyfriend hooking with other women, but also his constant absence when he is on the road. So now that Felix will be in town for two whole months to train for his next big bout, Bianca is thrilled. He’s even asked her to move into his cabin while he's there. But when he leaves for days at a time to promote his fight, Bianca spends time getting to know Felix’s gorgeous new trainer and good friend, Gio. Increasingly drawn to his sweet smile and smoldering green eyes, she finds herself saying and doing things she normally wouldn’t.
As it becomes more and more difficult for each to resist the other, Gio crosses the line between them. He hopes that one kiss will alleviate the overwhelming temptation and clear both their systems, but it does just the opposite. Their temptation suddenly becomes an obsession--an obsession quickly forces Gio to realize this is more than just lust. He's fallen hard and to his delight so has she. Now he's forced to make the hardest decision of his life. Risk losing his long time friend or walk away from the only girl he's ever loved.
Adult Contemporary romance
330 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 21, 2012
318 people are currently reading
3947 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Reyes
52 books4,089 followersElizabeth Reyes is a USA Today Best Selling Author of The Moreno Brothers, 5th Street, Fate, Looking Glass, De Luca Boys series' and two stand alone novels Desert Heat, & Defining Love.
Join the fun and become a royal member of TeamReyes and enjoy the perks of early announcements,cover reveals teasers, including exclusive teasers shared only the group. Along with exclusive team,giveaways,discussions, trivia, Secret Santa and much much more!
Note to readers, I don't do dark, tragic or kill off main characters no matter what it might seem like. Just keep reading and trust me you'll ALWAYS get an HEA from me!
Moreno Brothers:
Forever Mine - New Adult / Mature YA
Sweet Sofie - New Adult/ Mature YA
Forever Yours - New Adult (Angel and Sarah's follow up (college story!)
When You Were Mine - (A prequel novella to Always Been Mine)- New Adult
Always Been Mine - Adult contemporary
Romero - New Adult- Adult contemporary
Making You Mine - New Adult
(with bonus Angel and Sarah short "Only 8 days") *Tearjerker
Tangled - (A Moreno Brothers holiday novella) Featuring Romero and Izzy
Tall, Dark & Obnoxious - Adult Romantic Comedy- short featuring Izzy's uptight sister and Romero's obnoxious uncle.
5th Street:
Noah - Adult Contemporary
Gio - New Adult
Hector - New Adult
Abel - Adult Contemporary *Tear Jerker
Felix - New Adult *Tear jerker
Blindside - Adult contemporary short featuring Noah and Roni
Fate series:
Fate - New Adult
Breaking Brandon - New Adult *Tear jerker
Suspicious Minds - Adult contemporary
Again - New Adult/Adult Contemporary *MAJOR tear jerker
Rage - Adult contemporary
His To Guard - Adult contemporary
Uninvited - Adult contemporary
Boyle Heights series
Lila - Adult Contemporary
Beast - Adult Contemporary
Nine - Adult Contemporary/RomCom
Orlando - Adult Contemporary
Looking Glass
Girl In The Mirror - Adult Contemporary/psychological thriller
We Were One - Adult Contemporary *MAJOR tear jerker but TRUST ME! ;)
De Luca Boys
Remi's Choice - Adult Contemporary - Love triangle MAJOR angst - cheating but hailed one of the BEST love triangles written.
For more up to date info visit her website at www.ElizabethReyes.com
Join the fun and become a royal member of TeamReyes and enjoy the perks of early announcements,cover reveals teasers, including exclusive teasers shared only the group. Along with exclusive team,giveaways,discussions, trivia, Secret Santa and much much more!
Note to readers, I don't do dark, tragic or kill off main characters no matter what it might seem like. Just keep reading and trust me you'll ALWAYS get an HEA from me!
Moreno Brothers:
Forever Mine - New Adult / Mature YA
Sweet Sofie - New Adult/ Mature YA
Forever Yours - New Adult (Angel and Sarah's follow up (college story!)
When You Were Mine - (A prequel novella to Always Been Mine)- New Adult
Always Been Mine - Adult contemporary
Romero - New Adult- Adult contemporary
Making You Mine - New Adult
(with bonus Angel and Sarah short "Only 8 days") *Tearjerker
Tangled - (A Moreno Brothers holiday novella) Featuring Romero and Izzy
Tall, Dark & Obnoxious - Adult Romantic Comedy- short featuring Izzy's uptight sister and Romero's obnoxious uncle.
5th Street:
Noah - Adult Contemporary
Gio - New Adult
Hector - New Adult
Abel - Adult Contemporary *Tear Jerker
Felix - New Adult *Tear jerker
Blindside - Adult contemporary short featuring Noah and Roni
Fate series:
Fate - New Adult
Breaking Brandon - New Adult *Tear jerker
Suspicious Minds - Adult contemporary
Again - New Adult/Adult Contemporary *MAJOR tear jerker
Rage - Adult contemporary
His To Guard - Adult contemporary
Uninvited - Adult contemporary
Boyle Heights series
Lila - Adult Contemporary
Beast - Adult Contemporary
Nine - Adult Contemporary/RomCom
Orlando - Adult Contemporary
Looking Glass
Girl In The Mirror - Adult Contemporary/psychological thriller
We Were One - Adult Contemporary *MAJOR tear jerker but TRUST ME! ;)
De Luca Boys
Remi's Choice - Adult Contemporary - Love triangle MAJOR angst - cheating but hailed one of the BEST love triangles written.
For more up to date info visit her website at www.ElizabethReyes.com
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January 24, 2013I adored Noah- the first book in the 5th Street series. But I can tell you that for me, Gio blew it out of the water. This is an incredible read. I'm a big fan of angst and Reyes delivers in Gio. It's steamy, heart-breaking, romantic, and touching all rolled into one. This is the kind of story that stays with you long after you've finished it. It'll become one of your favorite rereads.
June 24, 2012
So...Gio. So...Gio. Soooooo....Gio.
I'm not sure what to say.
Usually, this type of reaction comes from me not being able to express how a book made me feel because it was incredible. In the case of Gio, I'm finding myself unsure how to convey that I liked a book fine without making people think I didn't care for it.
We'll start with the cheating
Call it a spoiler if you want to but I can't. Any time a person picks up a book about a trigger subject, it's probably a good idea for them to know ahead of time that it's going to happen. And it happens. And happens. And happens.
I can't say that it bothered me to the point of wanting to rant over the behavior. The book Thoughtless sort of set the gold standard for what not to do in a relationship when it comes to cheating. Any other book with this subject will probably never rile me up the way Thoughtless did.
However, this doesn't mean that I excuse the behavior. What is it with people in relationships where they can't just make a choice and live with it? Cheating happens. It's not a random and isolated thing. I've done it, you might have done it...I just personally have a bit of a pet peeve with people who cheat and cheat and cheat. If nothing else, call off the relationship and give yourself time to figure out who you should be with.
But...I also get that thinking doesn't always come into play when emotions are on the line. Gio allowed himself to be the mistress so I can't lay the blame solely on Bianca.
How was the love story?
It was fine. I didn't feel the same sense of passion that I felt while observing Roni and Noah fall in love. If anything, I've decided that I like Noah even more than I originally thought, so I'm about to go raise my rating from a 3.5 to a solid 4 star. Gio was adequate enough and I had no big complaints. This author has a writing style that's enjoyable and easy to read. I will be happy to continue on with her books because it will be nice to see the rest of the 5th street boys find love.
I'm not sure what to say.
Usually, this type of reaction comes from me not being able to express how a book made me feel because it was incredible. In the case of Gio, I'm finding myself unsure how to convey that I liked a book fine without making people think I didn't care for it.
We'll start with the cheating
Call it a spoiler if you want to but I can't. Any time a person picks up a book about a trigger subject, it's probably a good idea for them to know ahead of time that it's going to happen. And it happens. And happens. And happens.
I can't say that it bothered me to the point of wanting to rant over the behavior. The book Thoughtless sort of set the gold standard for what not to do in a relationship when it comes to cheating. Any other book with this subject will probably never rile me up the way Thoughtless did.
However, this doesn't mean that I excuse the behavior. What is it with people in relationships where they can't just make a choice and live with it? Cheating happens. It's not a random and isolated thing. I've done it, you might have done it...I just personally have a bit of a pet peeve with people who cheat and cheat and cheat. If nothing else, call off the relationship and give yourself time to figure out who you should be with.
But...I also get that thinking doesn't always come into play when emotions are on the line. Gio allowed himself to be the mistress so I can't lay the blame solely on Bianca.
How was the love story?
It was fine. I didn't feel the same sense of passion that I felt while observing Roni and Noah fall in love. If anything, I've decided that I like Noah even more than I originally thought, so I'm about to go raise my rating from a 3.5 to a solid 4 star. Gio was adequate enough and I had no big complaints. This author has a writing style that's enjoyable and easy to read. I will be happy to continue on with her books because it will be nice to see the rest of the 5th street boys find love.
November 18, 2014
I could have liked this book so much. Gio was such a likable character, even from the first book he was my favourite.
In this book we have Felix, Gio's old friend that's coming back to 5th street so he can train with him. Then we meet Felix's girlfriend Bianca, the girl that Gio was secretly crushing in high school. Gio & Bianca share a connection, they feel strongly attracted to one another. At first they try to fight it, but as the time passes they start to fall for eachother.
" No matter what, this won't end well. You know that right?"
I didn't feel the passion or the love between them. The connection was almost nonexistent and their conversations didn't really flow well and were a little too cheesy at times.
My main problem though was . HELL TO THE NO. I just can't get past this. Sometimes when it's done right I don't mind so much. But god, in this one I hated how it got handled. Maybe it was cause I loved Felix. There I said it. I don't know why, but ever since I saw him in this book, it was all about him. I really can't wait to read his book!
Overall I think this was an okay read. It had some unnecessary drama but it was still fun.
Now of to the next one, Hector here I come!
In this book we have Felix, Gio's old friend that's coming back to 5th street so he can train with him. Then we meet Felix's girlfriend Bianca, the girl that Gio was secretly crushing in high school. Gio & Bianca share a connection, they feel strongly attracted to one another. At first they try to fight it, but as the time passes they start to fall for eachother.
" No matter what, this won't end well. You know that right?"
I didn't feel the passion or the love between them. The connection was almost nonexistent and their conversations didn't really flow well and were a little too cheesy at times.
My main problem though was . HELL TO THE NO. I just can't get past this. Sometimes when it's done right I don't mind so much. But god, in this one I hated how it got handled. Maybe it was cause I loved Felix. There I said it. I don't know why, but ever since I saw him in this book, it was all about him. I really can't wait to read his book!
Overall I think this was an okay read. It had some unnecessary drama but it was still fun.
Now of to the next one, Hector here I come!
September 1, 2012
I don't know, I am a big fan of Elizabeth Reyes, but this one was not one of my favorites. The whole cheating factor is what lost me. Ok, so I know that her boyfriend was scum and lying to her, but she was totally in love with him in the beginning of the book and unaware of what he was doing until AFTER she had already started sneaking around behind his back. They excuse their behavior by saying that they have this unexplainable pull and they just "couldn't control it and they didn't mean for it to happen". Those were the most cliched cheating excuses ever. I just wasn't buying into it. If you have a sudden uncontrollable attraction to someone when you are already with someone else, in my opinion the decent thing to do is to break it off immediately if you want to start something up with someone new. So when, at the end it is revealed that not only did her boyfriend cheat on her, but he got the girl pregnant and lied to her throughout the whole book, you are supposed to feel justified in rooting for the main characters to get together. Well, I just couldn't do it. I gave it two stars because I like the author and her writing style, but this story wasn't good for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Want to read
September 6, 2017FREE on Amazon today (09/06/2017)
June 8, 2012
Welcome back to 5th Street! This touching and sexy series centers on a sweet, masculine, loyal, and loving bunch of guys who call the 5th Street boxing gym their home away from home. Book two in the series tells the story of one sinfully “delectable”, green-eyed beauty that is Giovanni Bravo!
This book opens with one hell of a sad, painful punch to the gut that sends Gio’s world spiraling into darkness and depression. The man may have left me dazed with those sparkling eyes, but it was his pain, sorrow, and guilt that captured and squeezed my heart. All of us need a push or pull at times to get back up off the mat, to keep moving, and living after a tragedy. Gio’s helping hand comes from an old friend, Feliz Sanchez, a 5th Street alum who hit it big in the boxing ring earning fame and money along the way, but he always stays true to his roots and the gym. With obvious concern for Gio, Felix offers him a training job and time away from the city, sorrow, and pressures weighing on him. Perhaps an old friend, snow covered mountains, and a new job is just what Gio needs to distract him from the pain and help him get back on track.
But what Gio didn’t count on was Felix’s girlfriend being the distraction. Bianca Rubio was beautiful, tender hearted, caring, smart, and innocent—a girl Gio was attracted to in high school years before, but never made a move on. Building off their pasts, Gio and Bianca create such a wonderful, warm camaraderie filled with laughter, talk, hot chocolate, snow, hot tubs and naughty, fun flirting. Their chemistry truly sparked, sizzled, and scorched the pages every time they looked at each other, touched, or laughed. And those dreams! Bianca, girl—WOW! ;) What these two brought out in each other went from heartfelt and touching to hot and naughty with one blink of their beautiful eyes! Pure hot love and lust! I got lost in Gio’s hot gaze right along with Bianca!
”For a moment, the very naughty thought of what his lips would feel like on hers, crossed her mind”
Now here is the issue, problem, and disappoiment with the book for me. Cheating. Grrrr…There is no sugar coating or changing the facts here—Bianca is Felix’s girlfriend and she is cheating on him with Gio. *shakes head in disappointment* Same can be said for Gio, he is betraying the trust and friendship with Felix by going after his girl. Both characters filled my heart with disappointment. Just break up with Felix! Ugh! But that is not how life or fiction works. Whether it is fear or cowardice of hurting the other person or shaming themselves, cheaters never come clean or face the consequences in time. Everyone gets hurt. All that said….
I still liked both Gio and Bianca. *shrugs* I know. Surprised me too. For me, the reaction from Noah and the guys helped my heart still flutter for Gio and Bianca’s romance. The 5th Street gang was openly disappointed and shocked with Gio’s disrespect towards Felix. Cheating is not easily forgotten or forgiven. I hope it made all the guys think. This forbidden romance swept me up from page one though. A connection and temptation so intense it could not be denied. Gio and Bianca’s story showed me that love can happen without a plan and sometimes no matter how hard you fight it. Love always wins in the end!
Gio is a knockout! Come on—had to do it! ;)
I can’t wait for more! Some of my favorite moments from this story and Noah’s involved the energy, gossip, and love when all the boys are together. They project such protectiveness and love for each other that hits my funny bone and heart. I can’t wait to see what the future holds!
Bring on the next guy! :D
This book opens with one hell of a sad, painful punch to the gut that sends Gio’s world spiraling into darkness and depression. The man may have left me dazed with those sparkling eyes, but it was his pain, sorrow, and guilt that captured and squeezed my heart. All of us need a push or pull at times to get back up off the mat, to keep moving, and living after a tragedy. Gio’s helping hand comes from an old friend, Feliz Sanchez, a 5th Street alum who hit it big in the boxing ring earning fame and money along the way, but he always stays true to his roots and the gym. With obvious concern for Gio, Felix offers him a training job and time away from the city, sorrow, and pressures weighing on him. Perhaps an old friend, snow covered mountains, and a new job is just what Gio needs to distract him from the pain and help him get back on track.
But what Gio didn’t count on was Felix’s girlfriend being the distraction. Bianca Rubio was beautiful, tender hearted, caring, smart, and innocent—a girl Gio was attracted to in high school years before, but never made a move on. Building off their pasts, Gio and Bianca create such a wonderful, warm camaraderie filled with laughter, talk, hot chocolate, snow, hot tubs and naughty, fun flirting. Their chemistry truly sparked, sizzled, and scorched the pages every time they looked at each other, touched, or laughed. And those dreams! Bianca, girl—WOW! ;) What these two brought out in each other went from heartfelt and touching to hot and naughty with one blink of their beautiful eyes! Pure hot love and lust! I got lost in Gio’s hot gaze right along with Bianca!
”For a moment, the very naughty thought of what his lips would feel like on hers, crossed her mind”
Now here is the issue, problem, and disappoiment with the book for me. Cheating. Grrrr…There is no sugar coating or changing the facts here—Bianca is Felix’s girlfriend and she is cheating on him with Gio. *shakes head in disappointment* Same can be said for Gio, he is betraying the trust and friendship with Felix by going after his girl. Both characters filled my heart with disappointment. Just break up with Felix! Ugh! But that is not how life or fiction works. Whether it is fear or cowardice of hurting the other person or shaming themselves, cheaters never come clean or face the consequences in time. Everyone gets hurt. All that said….
I still liked both Gio and Bianca. *shrugs* I know. Surprised me too. For me, the reaction from Noah and the guys helped my heart still flutter for Gio and Bianca’s romance. The 5th Street gang was openly disappointed and shocked with Gio’s disrespect towards Felix. Cheating is not easily forgotten or forgiven. I hope it made all the guys think. This forbidden romance swept me up from page one though. A connection and temptation so intense it could not be denied. Gio and Bianca’s story showed me that love can happen without a plan and sometimes no matter how hard you fight it. Love always wins in the end!
Gio is a knockout! Come on—had to do it! ;)
I can’t wait for more! Some of my favorite moments from this story and Noah’s involved the energy, gossip, and love when all the boys are together. They project such protectiveness and love for each other that hits my funny bone and heart. I can’t wait to see what the future holds!
Bring on the next guy! :D
June 21, 2012
Spoiler Free Review
4.5 STARS
Genre: Adult Contemporary Romance
Setting: Los Angeles, Ca. and Big Bear, Ca.
Series: 5th street book #2
As a man, NEVER EVER leave your girlfriend home alone with your male friend. Why? Because love has no respect for persons and can strike at anytime.
" No matter what, this won't end well. You know that right?" - Noah in Gio
When Giovanni Bravo delivers a deadly punch in the ring he spirals into a deep depression leaving his family and friends very worried. When Felix Sanchez now Welterweight Champion of the world comes to 5th street gym Gio tells him he will never fight in the ring again. Felix suggest that Gio should come up to his house in Big Bear to help him train. Gio agree's. But due to appearance obligations for his upcoming fight Felix will not be at the house 24/7 including the first few days Gio goes up there. Once at the house Gio meets Bianca Rubio. Bianca went to school with Gio and his friends and is now dating Felix.
Gio and Bianca feel an attraction for eachother. In just a few short days they begin to fall for one another. Bianca slowly pulls Gio out of his depression and into her arms. Both are scared because they are betraying Felix and falling in love with eachother. After trying to resist one another they finally give into temptation with a kiss. But the kiss opens a flood gate of lies and betrayals that will only result in brokenhearts and end lifelong friendships. Can these two have true happiness and leave the hurt and deceit they started by being together behind?!?
Thoughts
OH MY GOODNESS!!! You did it again Elizabeth Reyes! I love Gio! This book oozed sex appeal and charm in the forms of Gio and Bianca. The slow build to their romance sizzled in a natural way. They both wanted something they felt they could not have. This aspect was done in such a way that you could feel the emotions emitted from the pages. You could feel all of the confliction and war that waged inside them. And boy did it hurt... On top of that you get thrown about 4 curveballs that you could have never seen coming! LOVE LOVE LOVED IT!!!!! A MUST READ!!!
My Ratings
Characters- Lovable and Charming
Writing Style- Excellent, very solid and Skillful
Plot/Storyline- Emotional, Raw and Potent
Steam Factor- Very Steamy
Overall- I loved it!!
4.5 STARS
Genre: Adult Contemporary Romance
Setting: Los Angeles, Ca. and Big Bear, Ca.
Series: 5th street book #2
As a man, NEVER EVER leave your girlfriend home alone with your male friend. Why? Because love has no respect for persons and can strike at anytime.
" No matter what, this won't end well. You know that right?" - Noah in Gio
When Giovanni Bravo delivers a deadly punch in the ring he spirals into a deep depression leaving his family and friends very worried. When Felix Sanchez now Welterweight Champion of the world comes to 5th street gym Gio tells him he will never fight in the ring again. Felix suggest that Gio should come up to his house in Big Bear to help him train. Gio agree's. But due to appearance obligations for his upcoming fight Felix will not be at the house 24/7 including the first few days Gio goes up there. Once at the house Gio meets Bianca Rubio. Bianca went to school with Gio and his friends and is now dating Felix.
Gio and Bianca feel an attraction for eachother. In just a few short days they begin to fall for one another. Bianca slowly pulls Gio out of his depression and into her arms. Both are scared because they are betraying Felix and falling in love with eachother. After trying to resist one another they finally give into temptation with a kiss. But the kiss opens a flood gate of lies and betrayals that will only result in brokenhearts and end lifelong friendships. Can these two have true happiness and leave the hurt and deceit they started by being together behind?!?
Thoughts
OH MY GOODNESS!!! You did it again Elizabeth Reyes! I love Gio! This book oozed sex appeal and charm in the forms of Gio and Bianca. The slow build to their romance sizzled in a natural way. They both wanted something they felt they could not have. This aspect was done in such a way that you could feel the emotions emitted from the pages. You could feel all of the confliction and war that waged inside them. And boy did it hurt... On top of that you get thrown about 4 curveballs that you could have never seen coming! LOVE LOVE LOVED IT!!!!! A MUST READ!!!
My Ratings
Characters- Lovable and Charming
Writing Style- Excellent, very solid and Skillful
Plot/Storyline- Emotional, Raw and Potent
Steam Factor- Very Steamy
Overall- I loved it!!
August 25, 2013
I finished Gio at 3:30 in the morning after saying I was only going read one more chapter (I was at the 75% mark), and I have slept on it trying to decide how I felt about his and Bianca's story. My emotions are still all over the place, bouncing around over how exactly I should feel. Torn? Torn is probably about the only word I can come up with.
I'm holding off on assigning the star rating until I've finished this review.
First off, the glaring reality is that Gio is not just a book about love, and one-time experiences for a once-in-a-lifetime guy. It's not just a book about friendship and loyalty. It's a book about cheating. And this, in and of itself, is what has me the most tore up about the story.
Reyes has crafted a fantastic book, extremely entertaining. I have to give the novel that. I wanted to read it, I finished it-- and yes, I was rooting for Gio and Bianca, despite the stamp of "OFF LIMITS" that was everywhere. At the end, I was satisfied with their story and how the relationship came to be. It could have been any one's love story. They were just stuck in the constraints of Bianca being Felix's girlfriend for the entire novel. If that had not been a factor, the development of their love would have still made sense.
He knew a good thing when he saw it, and Bianca was as good as it got.
There is a selfish part of me that wishes the cheating hadn't worked out in the cheater's favor, and then there is a part of me that is glad. Gio and Bianca fit together with this electric, all consuming love that dominated all else (but not near the level of Noah and Roni). I just hate the way it came about.
I'm settling in 3.5 stars for Gio's book, even though a part of me feels this is unfair. I cannot get the idea of knowing what you are doing is wrong and doing it anyway out of my head, but my love for Gio's character and the story of the 5th Street Boxers has not turned me away from this series over this. Everyone makes mistakes, and Gio and Bianca and Felix all made mistakes. They just happened to benefit from them.
Props to Felix for being the bigger man and being able to support the people who hurt him. I know I would not have been able to do that.
I'm holding off on assigning the star rating until I've finished this review.
First off, the glaring reality is that Gio is not just a book about love, and one-time experiences for a once-in-a-lifetime guy. It's not just a book about friendship and loyalty. It's a book about cheating. And this, in and of itself, is what has me the most tore up about the story.
Reyes has crafted a fantastic book, extremely entertaining. I have to give the novel that. I wanted to read it, I finished it-- and yes, I was rooting for Gio and Bianca, despite the stamp of "OFF LIMITS" that was everywhere. At the end, I was satisfied with their story and how the relationship came to be. It could have been any one's love story. They were just stuck in the constraints of Bianca being Felix's girlfriend for the entire novel. If that had not been a factor, the development of their love would have still made sense.
He knew a good thing when he saw it, and Bianca was as good as it got.
There is a selfish part of me that wishes the cheating hadn't worked out in the cheater's favor, and then there is a part of me that is glad. Gio and Bianca fit together with this electric, all consuming love that dominated all else (but not near the level of Noah and Roni). I just hate the way it came about.
I'm settling in 3.5 stars for Gio's book, even though a part of me feels this is unfair. I cannot get the idea of knowing what you are doing is wrong and doing it anyway out of my head, but my love for Gio's character and the story of the 5th Street Boxers has not turned me away from this series over this. Everyone makes mistakes, and Gio and Bianca and Felix all made mistakes. They just happened to benefit from them.
Props to Felix for being the bigger man and being able to support the people who hurt him. I know I would not have been able to do that.
January 7, 2015
I'm almost embarrassed to admit I even read this, but whatever... It was free, I downloaded it without looking at it properly and I hate deleting stuff unread. I probably should have though, because I hated it. Meet the characters:
Felix - AKA Cheating Asshole, although why the others are so sanctimonious about this when they're cheaters too is beyond me.
Bianca - supposedly incredibly sweet and innocent, except actually she's just stupidly naive. Actually, make that stupid and naive. No one is that naive. She's not a virgin. She doesn't dress or behave like some shrinking violet, so why are we supposed to believe she's an angel?
Gio - the love interest with no appeal. He's supposedly all manly and shit apart from that he still lives with his mum and is required to contact her several times a day (much like Bianca. You would never guess these two were adults.) And have I mentioned that I don't think there's anything particularly manly about boxing? Wow, you like beating the shit out of people for a living. Not particularly admirable, but apparently it's ok because it's "a sport". Don't get me started.
Here's the thing. I like characters with brains. And by brains, I don't necessarily mean crazy intelligent, but rather people with personalities who at least show some indication of, you know, thinking occasionally.
And then that ending... you must be fucking kidding me (or f-bomb kidding me if you ask Bianca). It reminded me of the only Danielle Steel novel I have ever read:
I spent the last ten or so chapters shouting "This is such bullshit!"
Felix - AKA Cheating Asshole, although why the others are so sanctimonious about this when they're cheaters too is beyond me.
Bianca - supposedly incredibly sweet and innocent, except actually she's just stupidly naive. Actually, make that stupid and naive. No one is that naive. She's not a virgin. She doesn't dress or behave like some shrinking violet, so why are we supposed to believe she's an angel?
Gio - the love interest with no appeal. He's supposedly all manly and shit apart from that he still lives with his mum and is required to contact her several times a day (much like Bianca. You would never guess these two were adults.) And have I mentioned that I don't think there's anything particularly manly about boxing? Wow, you like beating the shit out of people for a living. Not particularly admirable, but apparently it's ok because it's "a sport". Don't get me started.
Here's the thing. I like characters with brains. And by brains, I don't necessarily mean crazy intelligent, but rather people with personalities who at least show some indication of, you know, thinking occasionally.
And then that ending... you must be fucking kidding me (or f-bomb kidding me if you ask Bianca). It reminded me of the only Danielle Steel novel I have ever read:
I spent the last ten or so chapters shouting "This is such bullshit!"
June 21, 2012
This book did not resonate with me even though I am usually a Fan of the forbidden love scenario, even when there is sometimes cheating involved. But for some reason, Bianca and Gio's relationship did not scream romance to me. And their complete misunderstanding/jump-to-wrong-conclusion conflict at the end irritated me. I wanted to force them both in a room together and make them actually TALK. I felt this book had a smutty feel and I don't usually think that about Elizabeth Reyes' books. I was just a little disappointed.
As for the cheating storyline...I have read books where I was not bothered by this, but for some reason I couldn't justify the sneaky relationship in this one. I kept thinking that there is no reason they should continue taking advantage of Felix's generosity and still be sneaking around. And the way they snuck out to the van? I was practically yelling at them to smile for the inevitable camera! I was so irritated with Gio's excuses to Noah!! I wanted to tell him to shut it! He sounded so whiny. And Bianca was not much better. One redeeming point was that she quit sleeping with Felix.
With all that said, I do kinda like the 5th Street Gang and imagine I'll be back for more. I like the way the prior characters play dominate roles in the sequels and it was nice to catch up with Noah and Roni.
As for the cheating storyline...I have read books where I was not bothered by this, but for some reason I couldn't justify the sneaky relationship in this one. I kept thinking that there is no reason they should continue taking advantage of Felix's generosity and still be sneaking around. And the way they snuck out to the van? I was practically yelling at them to smile for the inevitable camera! I was so irritated with Gio's excuses to Noah!! I wanted to tell him to shut it! He sounded so whiny. And Bianca was not much better. One redeeming point was that she quit sleeping with Felix.
With all that said, I do kinda like the 5th Street Gang and imagine I'll be back for more. I like the way the prior characters play dominate roles in the sequels and it was nice to catch up with Noah and Roni.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 16, 2012
This is a tough one to rate since the whole cheating issue is not to my liking nowadays. But I did feel all the emotions involved here and I think it was spot on to how someone would actually feel or deal with in real life. I just think that Gio & Bianco should have come clean rather sooner than when they did. Also, the whole van situation was effed up. Noah from the first book was probably the only smart one throughout this whole book and I appreciate that. Overall, I did enjoy this and I give the author credit for writing a not so typical romance that involves a subject matter that many people may look down upon.
3.5 Stars
3.5 Stars
June 6, 2012
I will be dreaming of green eyes tonight!
September 27, 2014
Well I loved Noah (the first in this series) but I loved Gio even more. Elizabeth Reyes writes adult contemporary as well as young adult books. I have read some from her Moreno brother series, one of which I wasn't keen on. Although Gio is 'adult contemporary', it does still feel like a YA book as all the characters are aged around 21 (although we don't actually get told their ages in this book but I am going on their ages when Noah ended!). There are no explicit love scenes until near the end of the book and in my view even these are tame so yes, it does seem like a YA book however, I still really enjoyed it.
I have read reviews on Amazon.com and some people are not keen on the fact the book is about 'cheating'. I didn't have a problem with this as from the beginning, it is obvious that Felix (Bianca's boyfriend) is not being faithful to her. Also, the reason Bianca doesn't just end things with Felix when she realises she is falling for Gio is because she would then not be able to see Gio. I found this all very believable.
As with Noah, we get a slow build up on the romance side. I like this in a story. Gio to me is the best male hero I have read out of all Elizabeth Reyes books. He has reason to show jealousy, but it is in a normal way and not overly possessive like some of her other characters. Bianca as well is one of the best heroines I have read by Reyes.
All in all, a really good read. Reyes states at the end that she is taking a break from this series and going back to the Moreno brothers (Vince and Rose). I'm a bit disappointed we will have to wait for the next one in this series and I am hoping it is Abe and Nellie's story next.
I have read reviews on Amazon.com and some people are not keen on the fact the book is about 'cheating'. I didn't have a problem with this as from the beginning, it is obvious that Felix (Bianca's boyfriend) is not being faithful to her. Also, the reason Bianca doesn't just end things with Felix when she realises she is falling for Gio is because she would then not be able to see Gio. I found this all very believable.
As with Noah, we get a slow build up on the romance side. I like this in a story. Gio to me is the best male hero I have read out of all Elizabeth Reyes books. He has reason to show jealousy, but it is in a normal way and not overly possessive like some of her other characters. Bianca as well is one of the best heroines I have read by Reyes.
All in all, a really good read. Reyes states at the end that she is taking a break from this series and going back to the Moreno brothers (Vince and Rose). I'm a bit disappointed we will have to wait for the next one in this series and I am hoping it is Abe and Nellie's story next.
May 27, 2012
Elizabeth Reyes never disappoints! Her style of writing in the 5th Street series just flows so easily and picks you up for the ride. It stays centered and to the point without always including all the, sometimes, unnecessary side stories. This makes 5th Street a refreshing change because it focuses intently on the 2 main characters and their journey, which makes it that more real and emotional.
This is the second book in the series and Reyes had me hooked once again with Gio..yummy lush Gio with his amazing green eyes..sigh...and the sweet and adorable Bianca!!! Their story was passionate and intense!!
The story-line is one that can be difficult to read. We all know that love is not simple, it is not neat and tidy and it isn't predictable. Love is uncontrollable when it happens. We also know that two wrongs don't make a right, and that with deception comes guilt. However, I think Reyes dealt with it beautifully and sensitively. I got it and I completely understood!!
This book was emotional and so yummy I couldn't put it down and I can't wait to have more from 5th Street!!!
This is the second book in the series and Reyes had me hooked once again with Gio..yummy lush Gio with his amazing green eyes..sigh...and the sweet and adorable Bianca!!! Their story was passionate and intense!!
The story-line is one that can be difficult to read. We all know that love is not simple, it is not neat and tidy and it isn't predictable. Love is uncontrollable when it happens. We also know that two wrongs don't make a right, and that with deception comes guilt. However, I think Reyes dealt with it beautifully and sensitively. I got it and I completely understood!!
This book was emotional and so yummy I couldn't put it down and I can't wait to have more from 5th Street!!!
June 7, 2012
This is definitely a MUST Read!!!!! I enjoyed this one better than Noah (but also enjoyed Noah) I felt the connection and love story between Gio and Bianca came together faster then Noah and Roni's did. This one was also a little bit steamier:) I like my Steam:) I do have to say I am really liking this series by Elizabeth, but I didn't really have any doubts since I absolutely LOVE the Moreno series. I can't wait to read the next book.
December 27, 2012
After reading the views on this book it made me kind of leary about reading it. I decided to read it despite the reviews and I have to say the "cheating" in this book isn't what people claimed it to be. I didn't think anything bad about Gio and Bianca's story. It was almost like Bianca and Felix were just friends with benefits because they weren't "together" hardly at all in the whole darn story. She was practically single. So I. Other words. READ THIS BOOK!
March 21, 2013
I forgot how much I liked Noah's book so this one was unexpected as it did took me awhile to get into. But once I was, I was absolutely absorbed by the building romance of Gio and Bianca. The only problem? Felix, AKA Biancas boyfriend AND good friend of Gio. The twist at the end... Now that came out of nowhere!!! Loved the unexpected!!!
"No matter what, this wont end well. You know that, right?"
March 3, 2020
I don’t like the cheating thing and the way they handled it. I do like this series.
June 8, 2014
Wow. This was a really disappointing read. I liked Gio in his previous appearance in Noah. He was a caring best friend. However, his story was just horrible. He is unlikeable in this book but he is paired well with another unlikeable character who is going out with another despicable character. I suppose it is not surprise that I did not like this book given the theme which is cheating. Sure they sugarcoated the act by saying they loved each other but it was a very selfish thing to do because she should have broken things off before she even started anything with Gio. For that matter, she should have broken it off because they continued the act. It doesn't matter that the boyfriend is a cheating asshole, you should have broken things off. It was just so dumb.
Major characterization fails aside, the plot was so slow and dragged on. I listened to this book in audio format and I had to speed up the speech to even get to some development.
So here is the story in brief:
Gio kills someone accidentally in a match. He quits boxing and is very depressed. He is horrified that he made a kid fatherless, an experience he could relate to. His friends are worried so they try to help him. Felix, the cheating boyfriend, invites him to a resort to train with him. He accepts. There he meets Bianca of the bambi eyes. Bianca is a shy girl that he liked in highschool. She was too innocent and he did not want to sully that. He is stunned to find out how beautiful she is and is disappointed to find that she is Felix's girlfriend. Gio suspects that Felix is cheating on Bianca but Bianca is wholeheartedly in the relationship blind and dumb and naive and just plain ugh. Anyways, we are made to believe that she is totally adorable but I just disliked her. I wasn't convinced as a reader in the beginning and am definitely sure she isn't likeable as I read on. They spend a short time alone together. She is feeling vulnerable since he isn't in the cabin with her. There are reports where he is spotted with another woman. He is attracted to her despite not wanting to be. They flirt a lot. Suddently, Felix comes back and she throws herself at him. He treats her like shit. She starts having wet dreams about the beautiful Gio of the long lashes. She gets jealous when women pay attention to Gio. Gio chases after her and takes her home. They end up kissing. They end up making plans to be discreet. They can't tell Felix. They end up going on a date. They go to a party and have sex in a car. Felix gets drunk and confronts her about it. Pictures of their tryst surface and Felix blows up on Gio. Felix is hypocritical and goes mental on Bianca and Gio. I just hate everybody at this point. Their love triangle becomes a sort of soap opera. Some speculate that it is a publicity stunt for Felix's upcoming fight. Pictures surface of Felix and Bianca reconciling and Gio is devastated. There is a gas leak and explosion in the gym. Bianca does not know whether it is Gio who died. It was Jack. Everybody was sad. Gio refuses to see Bianca. Bianca is devastated. She cries and confronts him. She leaves. Gio confronts Felix about Bianca. Felix admits to fucking the woman Gio was dancing with. I'm just sick with these people. How can you continually say you love someone and screw someone else. Either you're really dumb to believe that or you're just really cruel and selfish. Bianca and Gio reconcile. Bianca and Gio expand their sex life. Everybody gets their happy ending including me because I don't have to read more about them.
My main gripe with this book is how utterly unlikeable the characters are. The cheating theme goes on for far too long. The situations are contrived and the characterizations are so poor. I had hints that I wouldn't like Bianca the moment she mentioned Felix's money and fame. It was such an immature relationship. I hated Felix because he was a selfish and self-righteous man who had an enormous ego. He treated women very poorly and must have viewed them as such. How can you even begin to have a relationship with someone who does not respect you. Lets eschew with the issue of love for a minute because people can't even respect one another. Felix obviously did not think much of his affairs. He continually lied to Bianca. Bianca was dumb enough to believe it. Gio is there along for the trainwreck that is Bianca and Felix's relationship. I guess what really irks me about this book is the willingness to have such poor and dumbed down characters for the sake of drama. For all the importance that Gio placed on his relationship with his fifth street brothers, I found myself really unsympathetic with his torn feelings over betraying his best friend for the girl he'd fallen for.
Also, what is with the excessive descriptions of beauty in books? Everybody is beautiful and perfect. Alright. Roll my eyes. I think it is overcompensation for what is really lacking.
I regret reading this. It was horrible. The characters are so terrible. It made me think of Thoughtless, which was the worst book I have ever read.
Major characterization fails aside, the plot was so slow and dragged on. I listened to this book in audio format and I had to speed up the speech to even get to some development.
So here is the story in brief:
Gio kills someone accidentally in a match. He quits boxing and is very depressed. He is horrified that he made a kid fatherless, an experience he could relate to. His friends are worried so they try to help him. Felix, the cheating boyfriend, invites him to a resort to train with him. He accepts. There he meets Bianca of the bambi eyes. Bianca is a shy girl that he liked in highschool. She was too innocent and he did not want to sully that. He is stunned to find out how beautiful she is and is disappointed to find that she is Felix's girlfriend. Gio suspects that Felix is cheating on Bianca but Bianca is wholeheartedly in the relationship blind and dumb and naive and just plain ugh. Anyways, we are made to believe that she is totally adorable but I just disliked her. I wasn't convinced as a reader in the beginning and am definitely sure she isn't likeable as I read on. They spend a short time alone together. She is feeling vulnerable since he isn't in the cabin with her. There are reports where he is spotted with another woman. He is attracted to her despite not wanting to be. They flirt a lot. Suddently, Felix comes back and she throws herself at him. He treats her like shit. She starts having wet dreams about the beautiful Gio of the long lashes. She gets jealous when women pay attention to Gio. Gio chases after her and takes her home. They end up kissing. They end up making plans to be discreet. They can't tell Felix. They end up going on a date. They go to a party and have sex in a car. Felix gets drunk and confronts her about it. Pictures of their tryst surface and Felix blows up on Gio. Felix is hypocritical and goes mental on Bianca and Gio. I just hate everybody at this point. Their love triangle becomes a sort of soap opera. Some speculate that it is a publicity stunt for Felix's upcoming fight. Pictures surface of Felix and Bianca reconciling and Gio is devastated. There is a gas leak and explosion in the gym. Bianca does not know whether it is Gio who died. It was Jack. Everybody was sad. Gio refuses to see Bianca. Bianca is devastated. She cries and confronts him. She leaves. Gio confronts Felix about Bianca. Felix admits to fucking the woman Gio was dancing with. I'm just sick with these people. How can you continually say you love someone and screw someone else. Either you're really dumb to believe that or you're just really cruel and selfish. Bianca and Gio reconcile. Bianca and Gio expand their sex life. Everybody gets their happy ending including me because I don't have to read more about them.
My main gripe with this book is how utterly unlikeable the characters are. The cheating theme goes on for far too long. The situations are contrived and the characterizations are so poor. I had hints that I wouldn't like Bianca the moment she mentioned Felix's money and fame. It was such an immature relationship. I hated Felix because he was a selfish and self-righteous man who had an enormous ego. He treated women very poorly and must have viewed them as such. How can you even begin to have a relationship with someone who does not respect you. Lets eschew with the issue of love for a minute because people can't even respect one another. Felix obviously did not think much of his affairs. He continually lied to Bianca. Bianca was dumb enough to believe it. Gio is there along for the trainwreck that is Bianca and Felix's relationship. I guess what really irks me about this book is the willingness to have such poor and dumbed down characters for the sake of drama. For all the importance that Gio placed on his relationship with his fifth street brothers, I found myself really unsympathetic with his torn feelings over betraying his best friend for the girl he'd fallen for.
Also, what is with the excessive descriptions of beauty in books? Everybody is beautiful and perfect. Alright. Roll my eyes. I think it is overcompensation for what is really lacking.
I regret reading this. It was horrible. The characters are so terrible. It made me think of Thoughtless, which was the worst book I have ever read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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April 9, 2015
"Gio" is the second installment of Elizabeth Reyes' 5th Street series. After finishing this book, it took me some time to process my feelings of this book. I can tell you this, I like "Noah" much more but not for the popular reasons for the nay-sayers.
I don't mind cheaters and cheaters in my romance. Cheating happens everyday so it doesn't bother me as it may some romance readers who like their heroes and heroines to remain monogamous. But in this story the hero falls in love with his good friend's girlfriend. But the cheating wasn't as tawdry as I've read other cheaters-themed romance stories I've read. (They have more longing eyes and looks than sex in this story, so if you don't like cheating too much, please don't think they just start banging the night away at first sight, the author builds their relationship so its kind of tame)
Gio was a character I was looking forward to reading as he definitely intrigued me from "Noah" and the start of the book with him being depressed due to a fatal outcome during his boxing match...sounded great. I expected a mopey Gio who maybe drank his sorrows away or he let his six pack for a five pack or something along that nature. We get a depressed Gio who remains so for a few pages when compared the snow activities descriptions and discussions who leaves the sad, pouty feelings behind for...Bianca aka Bambi eyes or as I refer to her as "Thoughtless" Kiera version 2.0.
Bianca is supposed to be the "good girl" heroine because she has eyes of a deer or some crap. I found her to be naive, at times useless and would like throw a flip-flop at her at some scenes. Not to hurt her just to stun her into making a decision because she knew her boyfriend was cheating on her before Gio, she had an inking. But she chooses to ignore the evidence via tabloids because her boyfriend told her its made up. She chooses to be an ostrich and hide her head. My biggest frustration with her was after admitting to herself she wants Gio...she still stays with her boyfriend so she can look at Gio. She was a bit wishy-washy in that respect a la Kiera hence my reference.
To me, Gio didn't really solve his depression issue. It was mentioned a few times but not truly resolved though he starts to feel fuzzy-wuzzy from the hearts, cupids and sprinkles coming out of Bambi's eyes. The power of those eyes are like Kryptonite to that man.
Here's what I did like about the story, Bianca-Bambi is a child of deaf parents, Roni - a btter heroine in my opinion when being compared to Bambi-Kiera 2.0 and Gio I liked him from the first book and still like him after reading this book.
Things I didn't care for other than the weak heroine was: bad mouthing of Roni because she kept getting downplayed by Noah's friends about the age difference...STILL after we already suffered through all of that in the first book, not much 5th street gym being showcased in the book. I was sick of the damn snow from the beginning of the book until the end.
Now when you read an Elizabeth Reyes book expect easy reading with hunky males thrown in the mix. Her writing does suck you in as I stated in my "Noah" review. She added more drama that I expected in "Gio" including the current status of the 5th Street Gym.
Though Bambi aka Bianca aka "Thoughtless" Kiera version 2.0 is not even in the bottom number of my favorite heroines or the top of my least faves, will I read the next in the series? Yeah because I just have to see where the author is going to go with this.
I don't mind cheaters and cheaters in my romance. Cheating happens everyday so it doesn't bother me as it may some romance readers who like their heroes and heroines to remain monogamous. But in this story the hero falls in love with his good friend's girlfriend. But the cheating wasn't as tawdry as I've read other cheaters-themed romance stories I've read. (They have more longing eyes and looks than sex in this story, so if you don't like cheating too much, please don't think they just start banging the night away at first sight, the author builds their relationship so its kind of tame)
Gio was a character I was looking forward to reading as he definitely intrigued me from "Noah" and the start of the book with him being depressed due to a fatal outcome during his boxing match...sounded great. I expected a mopey Gio who maybe drank his sorrows away or he let his six pack for a five pack or something along that nature. We get a depressed Gio who remains so for a few pages when compared the snow activities descriptions and discussions who leaves the sad, pouty feelings behind for...Bianca aka Bambi eyes or as I refer to her as "Thoughtless" Kiera version 2.0.
Bianca is supposed to be the "good girl" heroine because she has eyes of a deer or some crap. I found her to be naive, at times useless and would like throw a flip-flop at her at some scenes. Not to hurt her just to stun her into making a decision because she knew her boyfriend was cheating on her before Gio, she had an inking. But she chooses to ignore the evidence via tabloids because her boyfriend told her its made up. She chooses to be an ostrich and hide her head. My biggest frustration with her was after admitting to herself she wants Gio...she still stays with her boyfriend so she can look at Gio. She was a bit wishy-washy in that respect a la Kiera hence my reference.
To me, Gio didn't really solve his depression issue. It was mentioned a few times but not truly resolved though he starts to feel fuzzy-wuzzy from the hearts, cupids and sprinkles coming out of Bambi's eyes. The power of those eyes are like Kryptonite to that man.
Here's what I did like about the story, Bianca-Bambi is a child of deaf parents, Roni - a btter heroine in my opinion when being compared to Bambi-Kiera 2.0 and Gio I liked him from the first book and still like him after reading this book.
Things I didn't care for other than the weak heroine was: bad mouthing of Roni because she kept getting downplayed by Noah's friends about the age difference...STILL after we already suffered through all of that in the first book, not much 5th street gym being showcased in the book. I was sick of the damn snow from the beginning of the book until the end.
Now when you read an Elizabeth Reyes book expect easy reading with hunky males thrown in the mix. Her writing does suck you in as I stated in my "Noah" review. She added more drama that I expected in "Gio" including the current status of the 5th Street Gym.
Though Bambi aka Bianca aka "Thoughtless" Kiera version 2.0 is not even in the bottom number of my favorite heroines or the top of my least faves, will I read the next in the series? Yeah because I just have to see where the author is going to go with this.
June 10, 2012
I went back and forth about what my rating would be for this one, because this book left me very conflicted. I enjoyed Noah's story and was looking forward to Gio, but it was not at all what I was expecting. It had the feel of a story that was trying to be like Thoughtless only wrapped up into a shorter book, so it took me by surprise. This wasn't your standard romance with the characters falling immediately in lust and not able to keep their hands off each other. It was more of a slowly-developing forbidden love where the characters fought the temptation to be together for a long time, before finally realizing that their feelings were much more than they expected.
I actually really liked the slow build-up, even though it didn't flow as well as longer contemporary novels do just because of the lack of time for details and time lapsing. Gio completely blew me away, I just adored him even more than I did Noah. He was unbelievably sweet and loving towards Bianca and developed a believable bond with her. Bianca was likable with her fearless attitude toward her feelings with Gio and I really loved them together. Their romance just felt right, though the obvious moral issue of their behavior did affect how I felt about them as a whole. The concept here was similar to Thoughtless, but in Gio there was much less time for those feelings to develop and play out so I didn't have as strong of an emotional attachment to the characters. I did like the way they made each other feel, the chemistry between Gio and Bianca was off the charts, and at least in "Gio" there's a sense of Bianca deserving better than what Felix was giving her anyway. Obviously that doesn't give them a pass to have sex behind Felix's back, but ultimately I wasn't too upset for him in the end.
Overall I enjoyed this one a lot. There was a surprising lack of steamy scenes in this story, and the ones it had were lackluster compared to some (More Than Meets the Ink and Heavy Issues, which I recently read, made this pale in comparison) but I still enjoyed the romance as a whole.
I actually really liked the slow build-up, even though it didn't flow as well as longer contemporary novels do just because of the lack of time for details and time lapsing. Gio completely blew me away, I just adored him even more than I did Noah. He was unbelievably sweet and loving towards Bianca and developed a believable bond with her. Bianca was likable with her fearless attitude toward her feelings with Gio and I really loved them together. Their romance just felt right, though the obvious moral issue of their behavior did affect how I felt about them as a whole. The concept here was similar to Thoughtless, but in Gio there was much less time for those feelings to develop and play out so I didn't have as strong of an emotional attachment to the characters. I did like the way they made each other feel, the chemistry between Gio and Bianca was off the charts, and at least in "Gio" there's a sense of Bianca deserving better than what Felix was giving her anyway. Obviously that doesn't give them a pass to have sex behind Felix's back, but ultimately I wasn't too upset for him in the end.
Overall I enjoyed this one a lot. There was a surprising lack of steamy scenes in this story, and the ones it had were lackluster compared to some (More Than Meets the Ink and Heavy Issues, which I recently read, made this pale in comparison) but I still enjoyed the romance as a whole.
June 4, 2012
Oh Elizabeth Reyes, you do it again. You made me fall in love with another character from 5th Street.
What I loved about this book is plenty but I’m only going to mention a few. I loved the character Gio. Within the first few pages, your heart hurts for him and you long to take that pain away. When he decides to help train Felix at one of Felix’s boxing complex, life starts to look just a tad bit better. And it looks a whole lot better when he is re-introduced to Bianca. I loved his noble self when he was falling for Bianca and knew he couldn’t because it was his friends’ girl. (Although, I will say that I didn’t feel like I got to know Bianca as well as I did Roni in the first book, Noah.) And I loved his naughty behavior when he realized that it didn’t matter she was Felix’s girl! You could tell right from the start of who belonged with who and you just wanted them to fight for it; to fight for that love.
I loved how the 5th street gang made several appearances in the book and how you got to catch up with their lives. It makes you realize that they are all inter-woven as a family. I hope she continues having them all make appearances in each story.
Thanks Reyes for another great book and I am really looking forward to the next one.
What I loved about this book is plenty but I’m only going to mention a few. I loved the character Gio. Within the first few pages, your heart hurts for him and you long to take that pain away. When he decides to help train Felix at one of Felix’s boxing complex, life starts to look just a tad bit better. And it looks a whole lot better when he is re-introduced to Bianca. I loved his noble self when he was falling for Bianca and knew he couldn’t because it was his friends’ girl. (Although, I will say that I didn’t feel like I got to know Bianca as well as I did Roni in the first book, Noah.) And I loved his naughty behavior when he realized that it didn’t matter she was Felix’s girl! You could tell right from the start of who belonged with who and you just wanted them to fight for it; to fight for that love.
I loved how the 5th street gang made several appearances in the book and how you got to catch up with their lives. It makes you realize that they are all inter-woven as a family. I hope she continues having them all make appearances in each story.
Thanks Reyes for another great book and I am really looking forward to the next one.
February 8, 2014
I've read all the other books already. I was planning on skipping this one because of it's cheating.
Now in the beginning I found Felix to be a big douchebag. Of course Bianca, in the beginning, was ignorant to his man whorish ways. I did kind of warm up to him in the end. I'm not 100% sure about him, but my judgement has changed since the beginning.
As much as I liked the story, I had one conflict with Gio and Bianca's relationship. Before Gio and Bianca hooked up, Gio was very close to having sex with another girl in a public restroom stall. He told Bianca that the thrill of doing that was not knowing if they were going to be caught or not. That just got me thinking that what if Gio and Bianca just got into this affair just for the thrill of going behind someone's back.
Yes I know that Bianca has stated many times that she is not the person to cheat on someone, but sometimes you just can't help yourself. STILL NOT A REASON FOR CHEATING, I REPEAT NOT A REASON.
I have now read all the books in the 5th street series. I'm not entirely sure on whether or not I'll read felix's story. I'll have to read the blurb and decide.
Now in the beginning I found Felix to be a big douchebag. Of course Bianca, in the beginning, was ignorant to his man whorish ways. I did kind of warm up to him in the end. I'm not 100% sure about him, but my judgement has changed since the beginning.
As much as I liked the story, I had one conflict with Gio and Bianca's relationship. Before Gio and Bianca hooked up, Gio was very close to having sex with another girl in a public restroom stall. He told Bianca that the thrill of doing that was not knowing if they were going to be caught or not. That just got me thinking that what if Gio and Bianca just got into this affair just for the thrill of going behind someone's back.
Yes I know that Bianca has stated many times that she is not the person to cheat on someone, but sometimes you just can't help yourself. STILL NOT A REASON FOR CHEATING, I REPEAT NOT A REASON.
I have now read all the books in the 5th street series. I'm not entirely sure on whether or not I'll read felix's story. I'll have to read the blurb and decide.
December 14, 2012
Ive been a fan of Elizabeth Reyes since I started the Moreno series, I admit I skipped Noah. But I didnt feel that gap reading this. Gio and Noah are best buds so the constant interaction was there and I could feel the closeness even if I missed the first book.
Admittedly, I thought I wouldnt like the similarity of some themes to a certain book. BUT I was pleasantly surprised, I LOVED it. Gio this boy is all heart, I loved he feels things a lot to heart. Gio is just a great guy he blows it out of here. Bianca and Gio whoah the chemistry! I usually steer away from too much angst and drama but this was just wow. I was so sucked into this story no joke, I read it in one go. This has many good elements in one story, it was steamy, touching, conflict, and heart. Im no boxing fan but I have an idea but I enjoy the 5th street series cant wait for Hector.
Admittedly, I thought I wouldnt like the similarity of some themes to a certain book. BUT I was pleasantly surprised, I LOVED it. Gio this boy is all heart, I loved he feels things a lot to heart. Gio is just a great guy he blows it out of here. Bianca and Gio whoah the chemistry! I usually steer away from too much angst and drama but this was just wow. I was so sucked into this story no joke, I read it in one go. This has many good elements in one story, it was steamy, touching, conflict, and heart. Im no boxing fan but I have an idea but I enjoy the 5th street series cant wait for Hector.
November 30, 2014
I love this series. It is definitely one of my favorites and it has made me a HUGE fan of Elizabeth Reyes.
I started this series out of order by reading Felix, Hector, Abel, Noah and then finally Gio. Loved Felix until I read Hector then loved Hector until I read Abel and I really loved Abel. I liked Noah in his book but grew to love him more in the other books.
Gio...I actually liked Gio more than I thought I would. I really loved his story but I had a HUGE problem with how Gio and Bianca handled their relationship. I loved them together from the start ~ so cute together ~ so I wish they would have just come right out and told Felix before anything happened. I actually felt bad for Felix even though I wouldn't have wanted him with Bianca and it definitely gave him a dose of his own medicine. I liked the way everything worked out and I loved the ending. So good.
I started this series out of order by reading Felix, Hector, Abel, Noah and then finally Gio. Loved Felix until I read Hector then loved Hector until I read Abel and I really loved Abel. I liked Noah in his book but grew to love him more in the other books.
Gio...I actually liked Gio more than I thought I would. I really loved his story but I had a HUGE problem with how Gio and Bianca handled their relationship. I loved them together from the start ~ so cute together ~ so I wish they would have just come right out and told Felix before anything happened. I actually felt bad for Felix even though I wouldn't have wanted him with Bianca and it definitely gave him a dose of his own medicine. I liked the way everything worked out and I loved the ending. So good.
May 24, 2012
Gio was such and emotional ride that I found myself up at 2am because I HAD to find out what happened next. The story plot was amazing that I found myself laughing then tearing up and then sighing the next moment. Its safe to say that my family probably thought I went crazy. Miss Reyes' writing was so heartbreakingly beautiful you can't help but feel the same emotions as the characters.I also loved that Noah always had Gio's back no matter what. Gio joined my list of wonderful and swoon worthy guys which includes: Angel ,Alex ,Eric ,Romero ,Sal and Noah. Welcome to the club Gio....Welcome. :)
December 15, 2015
I am seriously falling in love with the guys on 5th Street!
What an intense, drama filled romance. I loved Noah in the first book but Gio, oh Gio... He is such a sweetheart!
Bianca and Gio find themselves in a very sticky situation. The chemistry between the two is so palpable. They try to fight their attraction for each other due to their loyalty towards Felix (who is Bianca's boyfriend and Gio's friend) but they inevitably give in to the carnal desire to be together. What follows is an emotional roller-coaster ride filled with so much drama.
I love how loyal the guys are in this series. I cannot wait to read the other books in this series!
What an intense, drama filled romance. I loved Noah in the first book but Gio, oh Gio... He is such a sweetheart!
Bianca and Gio find themselves in a very sticky situation. The chemistry between the two is so palpable. They try to fight their attraction for each other due to their loyalty towards Felix (who is Bianca's boyfriend and Gio's friend) but they inevitably give in to the carnal desire to be together. What follows is an emotional roller-coaster ride filled with so much drama.
I love how loyal the guys are in this series. I cannot wait to read the other books in this series!
May 25, 2012
I'm kinda hesitant on this story. Don't like cheaters in no way of form but I still enjoyed the read. Gio and Bianca go about their secret love in a bad way and I didn't feel sorry for neither when it was revealed even though Felix was no good himself. It was sweet, it was sad and in the end it turned out all good.
Maybe it's me but I gotta feeling that Able and Nellie might hook up? Hmmm...Ms. Reyes???
And happy to report that she will go back to the Moreno clan with Vince and Rose's story which I've been really really anticipating for!
Maybe it's me but I gotta feeling that Able and Nellie might hook up? Hmmm...Ms. Reyes???
And happy to report that she will go back to the Moreno clan with Vince and Rose's story which I've been really really anticipating for!
June 4, 2012
Loved It!!!!
I'm new to Elizabeth Reyes but I am definitely hooked to her!!! This book was filled with forbidden and antsy moments...which I love and live for.
The Van*** Sigh... Anyone think of the Coffehouse floor??? (Thoughtless)
Yeah...I am not for intruding on another friends territory but in this case how can you not love GIO????
Can't wait to see who is next?? I guess from here I am heading over to her Moreno brothers series... Yumm I have heard they are Delicious... So we will see ;0...
Happy Reading Ladies!
I'm new to Elizabeth Reyes but I am definitely hooked to her!!! This book was filled with forbidden and antsy moments...which I love and live for.
The Van*** Sigh... Anyone think of the Coffehouse floor??? (Thoughtless)
Yeah...I am not for intruding on another friends territory but in this case how can you not love GIO????
Can't wait to see who is next?? I guess from here I am heading over to her Moreno brothers series... Yumm I have heard they are Delicious... So we will see ;0...
Happy Reading Ladies!
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