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Barnes Brothers #1
Wrecked
Previously titled WRECK THIS LIFE
In the nineties, Abigale Applegate and Zach Barnes were the most beloved sitcom child stars in the world. Then they grew up and left Hollywood behind…
Whatever happened to Abigale Applegate?
She’s been wondering the same thing.
With her Hollywood dreams long gone, Abigale now has a nice, neat, uncomplicated life—until the day her perfect fiancé needs to talk. Dumped, a little more than shattered, and totally confused, Abigale turns to Zach, her best friend since forever, to help her pick up the pieces. He does it with a gift—a copy of Wreck This Journal. She can vent her frustrations, and sketch out a new plan. Zach just hopes he’s part of it. Because he’s been in love with Abigale his entire life.
When the journal falls into Zach’s hands, he discovers Abigale wants a new man. And fast. Nothing more than a hot distraction. Zach has a strategy, too. He’s going to be that man. It’s his last chance. Abigale might be out to shake up her life, but Zach’s out to reinvent it. Now, all he has to do is convince Abigale that life can go as planned.
In the nineties, Abigale Applegate and Zach Barnes were the most beloved sitcom child stars in the world. Then they grew up and left Hollywood behind…
Whatever happened to Abigale Applegate?
She’s been wondering the same thing.
With her Hollywood dreams long gone, Abigale now has a nice, neat, uncomplicated life—until the day her perfect fiancé needs to talk. Dumped, a little more than shattered, and totally confused, Abigale turns to Zach, her best friend since forever, to help her pick up the pieces. He does it with a gift—a copy of Wreck This Journal. She can vent her frustrations, and sketch out a new plan. Zach just hopes he’s part of it. Because he’s been in love with Abigale his entire life.
When the journal falls into Zach’s hands, he discovers Abigale wants a new man. And fast. Nothing more than a hot distraction. Zach has a strategy, too. He’s going to be that man. It’s his last chance. Abigale might be out to shake up her life, but Zach’s out to reinvent it. Now, all he has to do is convince Abigale that life can go as planned.
294 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published April 2, 2013
88 people are currently reading
3046 people want to read
About the author
Shiloh Walker
202 books2,437 followersHello... thanks for swinging by. I don't log into Goodreads much, so if you have questions, please visit my website to email me through my site.
Thank you!
My other me.... J.C. Daniels
And an experimental me that I put to sleep. J. Dallas
Bio...
Shiloh Walker has been writing since she was a kid. She fell in love with vampires with the book Bunnicula and has worked her way up to the more...ah...serious vampire stories. She loves reading and writing anything paranormal, anything fantasy, and nearly every kind of romance. Once upon a time she worked as a nurse, but now she writes full time and lives with her family in the Midwest.
To contact the author, please visit her website!
Thank you!
My other me.... J.C. Daniels
And an experimental me that I put to sleep. J. Dallas
Bio...
Shiloh Walker has been writing since she was a kid. She fell in love with vampires with the book Bunnicula and has worked her way up to the more...ah...serious vampire stories. She loves reading and writing anything paranormal, anything fantasy, and nearly every kind of romance. Once upon a time she worked as a nurse, but now she writes full time and lives with her family in the Midwest.
To contact the author, please visit her website!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 215 reviews
August 27, 2014
Sometimes it takes a lot of time to realize who you truly love, meaning at first we all have to fall for the wrong guy/girl. That's what the coming-of-age love-drama-chick-lit novel; 'Wrecked' is all about.
Abby and Zach were the two most-popular child actors of their times. Fast forward, Abby is all grown-up and is dumped by her fiancée. Figuring out no place to go, she leans on to her long-time best friend, Zach for support, who provides her with a journal, which wrecks her life and lets herself carefree instead of making plans for the future that she had been doing for so many years. She is on rebound and wants to date the first man she lays her eyes on, and Zach, being in love with her for so many years, finds his opportunity to finally own her heart. And slowly these two best friends tremendously shake things up and rock the world passionately (I'm talking about some seriously HOT, steamy love-making scenes!!), meaning turning into lovers and hence finally you can happily keep your book down. No tears guaranteed!!
This book will make you fall in love with the character, Zach, how he hides his feelings from the love of his life Abby and how much pain he had gone through when Abby got engaged to another guy. He always had feelings for her, everybody knew it, except Abby, who was blind enough to figure this out. Being in love with her so badly, Zach, maintained the bond of friendship with Abby, and always cared for her. Yeah, I know every girl would want a Zach in their lives, and not to mention his hot, delicious looks, anybody would fall for him.
I even liked the character of Abby, being a popular artist, she was so down to earth, controls her life, falls for the wrong guy, getting engaged to him, and then finally realizing that Zach is her man, and had been her man for all those years. Yeah love definitely knocked on her door really late, but that's what this is all about!
Zach and Abby's chemistry was undeniably sizzling; it'll leave you for wanting more of their hot romance. Even there are few other characters to admire like Zach's brothers like Trey, a single father, then Zach's business partner, Keelie and Zach and Abby's common friend, Marin. These characters make a strong appearance in the novel.
Shiloh Walker has told the story in a very beautiful way, mentioning each and every correct emotions of their love story, and really admirable how she managed to keep their friendship alive even when Zach and Abby became lovers. So I recommend all to read this hot melting romantic novel, Wrecked!!
Abby and Zach were the two most-popular child actors of their times. Fast forward, Abby is all grown-up and is dumped by her fiancée. Figuring out no place to go, she leans on to her long-time best friend, Zach for support, who provides her with a journal, which wrecks her life and lets herself carefree instead of making plans for the future that she had been doing for so many years. She is on rebound and wants to date the first man she lays her eyes on, and Zach, being in love with her for so many years, finds his opportunity to finally own her heart. And slowly these two best friends tremendously shake things up and rock the world passionately (I'm talking about some seriously HOT, steamy love-making scenes!!), meaning turning into lovers and hence finally you can happily keep your book down. No tears guaranteed!!
This book will make you fall in love with the character, Zach, how he hides his feelings from the love of his life Abby and how much pain he had gone through when Abby got engaged to another guy. He always had feelings for her, everybody knew it, except Abby, who was blind enough to figure this out. Being in love with her so badly, Zach, maintained the bond of friendship with Abby, and always cared for her. Yeah, I know every girl would want a Zach in their lives, and not to mention his hot, delicious looks, anybody would fall for him.
I even liked the character of Abby, being a popular artist, she was so down to earth, controls her life, falls for the wrong guy, getting engaged to him, and then finally realizing that Zach is her man, and had been her man for all those years. Yeah love definitely knocked on her door really late, but that's what this is all about!
Zach and Abby's chemistry was undeniably sizzling; it'll leave you for wanting more of their hot romance. Even there are few other characters to admire like Zach's brothers like Trey, a single father, then Zach's business partner, Keelie and Zach and Abby's common friend, Marin. These characters make a strong appearance in the novel.
Shiloh Walker has told the story in a very beautiful way, mentioning each and every correct emotions of their love story, and really admirable how she managed to keep their friendship alive even when Zach and Abby became lovers. So I recommend all to read this hot melting romantic novel, Wrecked!!
March 21, 2013
-- A Romantic Book Affairs Review
Abigale Applegate thought she wanted normal. To settle down and focus on her life plan. But when her fiancé dumps her two months before the wedding, telling her she’s not being true to herself, her neat and orderly life comes crashing down on her. That is, until Zach Barnes, her best friend of seventeen years helps her pick up the pieces. He gifts her with a copy of a journal called Wreck This Journal. The journal is to help her let things go, be spontaneous, stop planning, and do things out of her comfort zone. Feeling good about moving on with her life, Abigale decides she’s ready to grab life by the balls and makes a list of things she would like to do.
1. Stop worrying so much about the future
2. Call Roger (her ex-fiance) and tell him off
3. Flip off the next photographer you see
4. Get a tattoo
5. Have a torrid affair with a hot guy
Abigale and Zach grew up together on a television show. They were inseparable best friends. When it was cancelled, they remained best friends. But Zach wanted more from the relationship. He’s been love with Abigale since they were kids and never figured out a way to tell her. The opportunity has never been right, he says. And his fear of losing her as a friend made him settle for loving her from afar, rather than losing her. Now Zach finally has his chance to win Abigale over when he comes across her journal and sees the last number on her list. He realizes this might be his last chance to get the girl and he refuses to let Abigale go without a fight. He is determined to be the man she has an affair with and hopes to woo her enough so she will fall in love with him. All he has to do is convince Abigale he’s the hot guy.
The one woman he’d always wanted. The one woman he’d thought he never have.
It didn’t take much convincing. At this point, Abigaile's already started to see Zach in a different light. She begins to fantasize and lust over him. So when Zach makes his proposition, in a round-about way without telling her he saw the list, she immediately takes him up on his offer. And the torrid affair begins.
Zach was anything by superficial. He was real. He was kind. He was funny. And under the kindness and the humor, there was an edge to him that had emerged…somehow. She didn’t really know when, but sometimes just standing near him, even knowing him as well as she did, it sucked the breath of her.
Zach had me at sugar! My favorite endearment. This once child star is now living the life that truly makes him happy. He’s a tattoo artist with beautiful tattoos on his body – one in particular that made my heart swoon. He’s considerate, thoughtful, and deliciously sexy. What started out as a crush on Abigale grew until it turned into love. Zach has always been there for Abigale. He even moved to Arizona to be closer to her. But he would never tell her that. No, for seventeen years he has kept his feelings a secret. But now he has found a way to win her for good. And, oh my, he definitely shows her exactly what she could have…look out ladies, the man is passion and fire in the bedroom. Whew.
Abigale is a smart, stubborn, and fun heroine. I enjoyed following along her journey as she learns to overcome past hurts, her insecurities, and learn to live life to the fullest. Abigale wasn’t being true to herself after all. But it had nothing to do with going back to acting like her fiancé wanted her to. No, she began to realize, as her affair with Zach heats up, that she was missing passion, love, friendship, and excitement in her life. Zach gave her all of this and more. And it was right in front of her the entire time. She just didn’t see it. So as much as I really liked Abigale, I was beginning to think something was seriously wrong with her for not noticing Zach as more than just a friend before now…shame on you Abigale. It took some soul searching before the light bulb went off in her head telling her Zach is the one. And, ironically, as she slowly starts to fall deep in love with Zach, she begins to feel the same way Zach had been feeling all those years… afraid to tell him her feelings, for fear of losing him as her best friend.
Suffice it to say, I wanted to knock these two character’s heads together until they both admitted they were in love with one another. They were both so afraid to admit this was more than just a torrid affair for fear they would lose their friendship. And for two people who knew each other so well, they sure did miss the ‘in love with each other’ signs.
I really enjoyed the buildup and the anticipation for when they finally admitted to how they felt. However, they had to go through some obstacles before they finally admitted their feelings for one another. This includes a pesky ex-fiancé and someone in Zach’s life who could have potentially messed things up for them.
The author did a wonderful job capturing both the emotional and romantic aspects of the story – the awkwardness of two people who know each other so well, but don’t really know how to divulge their true feelings, desire, passion, fun times, heartache, and the frustration. Trust me, the frustration was definitely felt.
I guess my biggest problem with this story was trying to believe Zach could go seventeen years without expressing how he truly felt. It seemed a little far-fetched that this cool and confident man would go to such great lengths to be in the same city with Abigale, but never tell her how he felt. And how on earth could Abigale overlook Zach, who is the full package and any woman would fall over themselves to have? These questions kept fluttering through my mind the entire time.
I really hope Zach’s brothers, who are introduced in this story, get their own stories. Especially Zane. I would like to see a story with Zane and Keelie because I feel like there is so much more to their story.
Wrecked is a meltingly romantic and very sexy contemporary. This was my first book by Shiloh Walker and definitely won’t be my last. I love friends-turned-lovers romance. There is something so special about two people who have known each other most of their lives and then eventually fall in love. The love feels very genuine because it’s already been established. I loved watching these characters become unraveled in each other arms. And watching Abigale discover what she wanted all along was right in front of her, if she just only opened her eyes and looked. So, despite my disbelief Zach went so long without confessing his feelings, I thought this story was quite enjoyable.
On a side note: This story is not about television and Hollywood. That’s just a memory to these characters. So the author didn’t delve too much into that subject.
Rating: B
Heat: Hot
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June 4, 2017
I love a good friends to lovers theme though not a great fan of unrequited love. The hero Zach was delicious and the complete package.
April 5, 2013
Awww, unrequited love and friends-to-lovers. How could I resist? I didnt even bother to check the book blurb since I thought this bk was about SHIPS, so thanks to all my friends who brought it to my attention. What a bad title tho.
SW used to do these tropes all the time (my fave of these is One of the Guys) but it's been a while; I thought she had given up and is doing paranormal altogether. Altho I enjoyed this bk, I have to admit that I would have preferred if this had been an Ellora's novella like One of the Guys or Best Friend's Lover which I know is popular but I found it rather meh. I felt that the story was padded, at times, and I felt that the obvious sequel baiting for the older brother's story bordered on obnoxious. Especially since I have found out that the brother's story is not a given by her blog post here: http://www.shilohwalker.com/website/2....
I think it's perhaps for the best since I am not sure if I can take a whole Love With Someone Who Doesn't Know You Exist series.
Grade: B-
SW used to do these tropes all the time (my fave of these is One of the Guys) but it's been a while; I thought she had given up and is doing paranormal altogether. Altho I enjoyed this bk, I have to admit that I would have preferred if this had been an Ellora's novella like One of the Guys or Best Friend's Lover which I know is popular but I found it rather meh. I felt that the story was padded, at times, and I felt that the obvious sequel baiting for the older brother's story bordered on obnoxious. Especially since I have found out that the brother's story is not a given by her blog post here: http://www.shilohwalker.com/website/2....
I think it's perhaps for the best since I am not sure if I can take a whole Love With Someone Who Doesn't Know You Exist series.
Grade: B-
September 1, 2016
3.75 stars *Review up*
This was a cute and fun read. I'm new to Shiloh Walker so for a debut this wasn’t bad. I'm a huge sucker for the ‘secretly pining for my best friend' trope. It's too juicy to resist so I dived right into this. I also loved the Wreck This Journal theme, it was clever on the hero's part and clearly I had fun with it if my status updates are anything to go by. :P I just honestly wished it was utilized more through the story. I thought the journal was a perfect way for the heroine Abby to break lose from her neurotic habit of making lists and planning everything. She literally plans out her life when something goes off kilter.
I enjoyed this so much that I was prepared to give this 5 stars half way in but some things got in the way of me hopping on the 5 star 'woohoo! train. *sigh* Dammit. Some small things here and there and the big ‘blow up’ near the end that was dragged out ridiculously long for absurd silly reasons. First of all, the fact that the hero Zach has been in love with his best friend Abby for seventeen years and she never noticed was a little mind boggling.
And the fact that everybody around them knew about it and Abby was the last to know was also a little hard to grasp and kinda drove me nuts. I mean...seriously guys? I loved Zach but his complete absorption of Abby and pretty much putting his life on hold for her I thought was a little too extreme. The heady all-consuming obsession while sweet reminded me too much of something you see in YA/NA honestly. *ducks head* I mean he uproots his whole life to move to the city where Abby got a job just to be close to her. And the fact that he never truly tried to move on bugged me as well. Seventeen years to be hung up on someone is a lot.
But my biggest hold up was how Abby suddenly goes from engaged to another man and totally oblivious of her BFF to 'Woah! You are so sexy and I want you BAD' with a flip of a switch. Like...whahuh? I really wish the author paced the story better cause the abrupt 180 came off clunky and super fast. I had to really suspend belief that someone who was in a serious committed relationship and never ever looked at her best friend that way suddenly is staring at his tattoos and wanting to lick them. I mean I don't blame her for the licking part but...come on girl. This couldn't have gradually happened over a few months? Douchebag or not, she was near close to marrying 'Roger the Rat' if he hadn't called things off. The DAY of the wedding her fiancé calls it off and Zach of course is there to comfort her and she magically has her omg
moment. lol Seriously?? She suddenly ‘sees’ things in Zach she never saw before. It does happen I get that...but I guess I just wish it happened a little more gradually here. And I still wonder if Roger hadn't called things off would Abby still go through with it? That also bugged me. I really hate when authors use this fast easy loophole of jerk exs calling it off at the last minute when the heroine is too oblivious to know otherwise that the guy isn't right for her until AFTER the breakup. I’m probably over thinking it but...major elephant in the room.
Another thing that made me lose interest was the big KABOOM misunderstanding that had the heroine running away like her hair is on fire and freezing out the hero for a few days. Granted it was only like three? days, but the way the author dragged it out for 50-freaking-pages made it seem like weeks. It was so unnecessary and silly. She walks in on another woman trying to kiss Zach and runs out and skips town refusing to take anyone's calls. Yes because it makes perfect sense and really adult thing to do to not let anyone know where you are and if you are ok for 2 days straight. At this point I wanted to slap some sense into Abby. Here it became obvious the author wanted to drag things out real slow--like pulling teeth slow-- to create unnecessary angst when the heroine quickly realizes the kiss wasn’t how it looked but still drags her feet and keeps stalling saying she’s ‘not ready’ to confront him. How loooong it took her to confront him seemed just as loooong it took Zach to finally spit out how feels for her.
Like just...GET IT OUT. You walked in on a failed kiss, not sex. Get a damn grip.
Overall this was fun, predictable? yes, but still fun. Zach’s brothers sound interesting, Zane and Ty in particular. Zane seems like a total sweetheart but I kinda want to weep that he is getting paired up with Keelie a.k.a the ‘interloper’. I do not like this girl and honestly struggle to understand what Zane sees in her that has him so hung up on her. It’s a little hard to swallow. And it's not even about the kissing incident with Zach. She is Zach’s friend and coworker at the tattoo shop and has been pining after him for years, she makes a move on him in here which leads to the big ooooh no! misunderstanding. She’s 28 yet acts like a sullen bratty teenager with a HUGE chip on her shoulder. She's a little too immature for someone who's that age. She’s argumentative and defensive with everyone and I just don’t get what her deal is nor do I find her interesting enough to find out. Which bums me out because I do want to read Zane’s book but I’m just not interested in another Zach/Abby situation but with an annoying heroine in it’s place. Meh.
This was a cute and fun read. I'm new to Shiloh Walker so for a debut this wasn’t bad. I'm a huge sucker for the ‘secretly pining for my best friend' trope. It's too juicy to resist so I dived right into this. I also loved the Wreck This Journal theme, it was clever on the hero's part and clearly I had fun with it if my status updates are anything to go by. :P I just honestly wished it was utilized more through the story. I thought the journal was a perfect way for the heroine Abby to break lose from her neurotic habit of making lists and planning everything. She literally plans out her life when something goes off kilter.
I enjoyed this so much that I was prepared to give this 5 stars half way in but some things got in the way of me hopping on the 5 star 'woohoo! train. *sigh* Dammit. Some small things here and there and the big ‘blow up’ near the end that was dragged out ridiculously long for absurd silly reasons. First of all, the fact that the hero Zach has been in love with his best friend Abby for seventeen years and she never noticed was a little mind boggling.
And the fact that everybody around them knew about it and Abby was the last to know was also a little hard to grasp and kinda drove me nuts. I mean...seriously guys? I loved Zach but his complete absorption of Abby and pretty much putting his life on hold for her I thought was a little too extreme. The heady all-consuming obsession while sweet reminded me too much of something you see in YA/NA honestly. *ducks head* I mean he uproots his whole life to move to the city where Abby got a job just to be close to her. And the fact that he never truly tried to move on bugged me as well. Seventeen years to be hung up on someone is a lot.
But my biggest hold up was how Abby suddenly goes from engaged to another man and totally oblivious of her BFF to 'Woah! You are so sexy and I want you BAD' with a flip of a switch. Like...whahuh? I really wish the author paced the story better cause the abrupt 180 came off clunky and super fast. I had to really suspend belief that someone who was in a serious committed relationship and never ever looked at her best friend that way suddenly is staring at his tattoos and wanting to lick them. I mean I don't blame her for the licking part but...come on girl. This couldn't have gradually happened over a few months? Douchebag or not, she was near close to marrying 'Roger the Rat' if he hadn't called things off. The DAY of the wedding her fiancé calls it off and Zach of course is there to comfort her and she magically has her omg
moment. lol Seriously?? She suddenly ‘sees’ things in Zach she never saw before. It does happen I get that...but I guess I just wish it happened a little more gradually here. And I still wonder if Roger hadn't called things off would Abby still go through with it? That also bugged me. I really hate when authors use this fast easy loophole of jerk exs calling it off at the last minute when the heroine is too oblivious to know otherwise that the guy isn't right for her until AFTER the breakup. I’m probably over thinking it but...major elephant in the room.
Another thing that made me lose interest was the big KABOOM misunderstanding that had the heroine running away like her hair is on fire and freezing out the hero for a few days. Granted it was only like three? days, but the way the author dragged it out for 50-freaking-pages made it seem like weeks. It was so unnecessary and silly. She walks in on another woman trying to kiss Zach and runs out and skips town refusing to take anyone's calls. Yes because it makes perfect sense and really adult thing to do to not let anyone know where you are and if you are ok for 2 days straight. At this point I wanted to slap some sense into Abby. Here it became obvious the author wanted to drag things out real slow--like pulling teeth slow-- to create unnecessary angst when the heroine quickly realizes the kiss wasn’t how it looked but still drags her feet and keeps stalling saying she’s ‘not ready’ to confront him. How loooong it took her to confront him seemed just as loooong it took Zach to finally spit out how feels for her.
Like just...GET IT OUT. You walked in on a failed kiss, not sex. Get a damn grip.
Overall this was fun, predictable? yes, but still fun. Zach’s brothers sound interesting, Zane and Ty in particular. Zane seems like a total sweetheart but I kinda want to weep that he is getting paired up with Keelie a.k.a the ‘interloper’. I do not like this girl and honestly struggle to understand what Zane sees in her that has him so hung up on her. It’s a little hard to swallow. And it's not even about the kissing incident with Zach. She is Zach’s friend and coworker at the tattoo shop and has been pining after him for years, she makes a move on him in here which leads to the big ooooh no! misunderstanding. She’s 28 yet acts like a sullen bratty teenager with a HUGE chip on her shoulder. She's a little too immature for someone who's that age. She’s argumentative and defensive with everyone and I just don’t get what her deal is nor do I find her interesting enough to find out. Which bums me out because I do want to read Zane’s book but I’m just not interested in another Zach/Abby situation but with an annoying heroine in it’s place. Meh.
April 1, 2013
Review posted: Happily Ever After - Reads
Blog rating: B+
Abby and Zach were child actors who met on the set of their show and became best friends as teens. They’re still best friends today and Abby is now dealing with a broken engagement. Her life plan has gone off track and she’s struggling with the realization that her ex just wanted to be with “actress” Abigale, and not the woman she currently is and wants to be. She thought they were in love and realizing that he only loved what he wanted her to be is a tough pill to swallow. She leans on Zach, like she’s done for years and he gives her a new journal – one to wreck her life and shake things up instead of planning everything out like she has for years.
Zach…I love this man. He’s adorable, he’s been in love with Abby for years and even when his heart was being ripped out watching her get engaged to another man, he wanted her in his life rather than not and remained her best friend. Le sigh. He’s been there for her for years, everyone else can see how he feels for her, everyone expect Abby who’s blind to the love this man has for her. If Zach has anything to say about it, she won’t be blind for much longer.
Zach also has brothers (hello potential series!) and a couple of them make their presence and personalities known, especially concerning Zach’s relationship with Abby, but I want to know about all of them. Especially Trey who’s a single father after losing his wife the day after their son was born.
Abby, being blind to the love that Zach has for her, decides to shake her life up, move away from her carefully planned lists and “wreck” her life by doing things she never considered before (thanks to the journal Zach buys her) like tell off her ex, flip off a photographer and have an affair. Zach catches wind of her affair plan and makes it his mission for that man to be him and he also has a plan of his own, to make the affair turn into something much more serious for them once they get together.
Her heart stuttered and slowed to a stop as he kissed her, soft and slow. It was almost like the first time they’d kissed. Not that breathtaking free fall like that first kiss, but still. It was like everything else in the world just stopped. Nothing mattered but the touch of his lips on hers, light, easy…and sweet. Her heart ached inside her chest, swelling until she could barely breathe around it and then he lifted his head and stared down at her. “Abby,” he murmured…
I loved their romance, mainly thanks to Zach. This guy is so hard not to fall in love with. There are times I wanted to shake some sense into Abby and tell her to open her eyes! So the love part for Abby is slow in coming and the buildup for her takes the whole book, whereas Zach is trying so hard not to scare her away by confessing too much too soon where his feelings are concerned. The sex is, simply put, HOT. Shiloh can write some damn hot scenes and Zach and Abby don’t disappoint. What I loved most was the emotion that was so present for this couple in every scene. Whether it was them getting sexy in the shower or a quieter moment with Abby cuddled on his lap, their friendship is so strong and means so much to them both, it’s obvious every time they get together that they love each other, it’s the being in love with each other that they’re starting to ease into and I loved seeing how their relationship progressed and got stronger.
The supporting characters introduced are Keelie (Zach’s business partner at his tattoo shop), Marin (friend to both Zach and Abby who also starred in their long ago TV show) and Zach’s brothers. They all have nice roles that don’t overpower Zach and Abby but are present enough to build their characters and make me want more – exactly what you’d want from a supporting group.
I enjoyed this story so much. Sure, I was a tiny bit frustrated with Abby’s blindness when it came to Zach’s feelings and his reluctance to be direct and spell out his feelings for her in black and white, because that’s what she needed to actually GET it, but their ride was fun and Zach is such a great hero, I couldn’t get enough of him.
Blog rating: B+
Abby and Zach were child actors who met on the set of their show and became best friends as teens. They’re still best friends today and Abby is now dealing with a broken engagement. Her life plan has gone off track and she’s struggling with the realization that her ex just wanted to be with “actress” Abigale, and not the woman she currently is and wants to be. She thought they were in love and realizing that he only loved what he wanted her to be is a tough pill to swallow. She leans on Zach, like she’s done for years and he gives her a new journal – one to wreck her life and shake things up instead of planning everything out like she has for years.
Zach…I love this man. He’s adorable, he’s been in love with Abby for years and even when his heart was being ripped out watching her get engaged to another man, he wanted her in his life rather than not and remained her best friend. Le sigh. He’s been there for her for years, everyone else can see how he feels for her, everyone expect Abby who’s blind to the love this man has for her. If Zach has anything to say about it, she won’t be blind for much longer.
Zach also has brothers (hello potential series!) and a couple of them make their presence and personalities known, especially concerning Zach’s relationship with Abby, but I want to know about all of them. Especially Trey who’s a single father after losing his wife the day after their son was born.
Abby, being blind to the love that Zach has for her, decides to shake her life up, move away from her carefully planned lists and “wreck” her life by doing things she never considered before (thanks to the journal Zach buys her) like tell off her ex, flip off a photographer and have an affair. Zach catches wind of her affair plan and makes it his mission for that man to be him and he also has a plan of his own, to make the affair turn into something much more serious for them once they get together.
Her heart stuttered and slowed to a stop as he kissed her, soft and slow. It was almost like the first time they’d kissed. Not that breathtaking free fall like that first kiss, but still. It was like everything else in the world just stopped. Nothing mattered but the touch of his lips on hers, light, easy…and sweet. Her heart ached inside her chest, swelling until she could barely breathe around it and then he lifted his head and stared down at her. “Abby,” he murmured…
I loved their romance, mainly thanks to Zach. This guy is so hard not to fall in love with. There are times I wanted to shake some sense into Abby and tell her to open her eyes! So the love part for Abby is slow in coming and the buildup for her takes the whole book, whereas Zach is trying so hard not to scare her away by confessing too much too soon where his feelings are concerned. The sex is, simply put, HOT. Shiloh can write some damn hot scenes and Zach and Abby don’t disappoint. What I loved most was the emotion that was so present for this couple in every scene. Whether it was them getting sexy in the shower or a quieter moment with Abby cuddled on his lap, their friendship is so strong and means so much to them both, it’s obvious every time they get together that they love each other, it’s the being in love with each other that they’re starting to ease into and I loved seeing how their relationship progressed and got stronger.
The supporting characters introduced are Keelie (Zach’s business partner at his tattoo shop), Marin (friend to both Zach and Abby who also starred in their long ago TV show) and Zach’s brothers. They all have nice roles that don’t overpower Zach and Abby but are present enough to build their characters and make me want more – exactly what you’d want from a supporting group.
I enjoyed this story so much. Sure, I was a tiny bit frustrated with Abby’s blindness when it came to Zach’s feelings and his reluctance to be direct and spell out his feelings for her in black and white, because that’s what she needed to actually GET it, but their ride was fun and Zach is such a great hero, I couldn’t get enough of him.
April 8, 2013
3.75
Oh Zach. That's a long time to carry a torch, my friend, a long time.
Best friends and former child actors Abby and Zach are made for each other. Too bad only one of them realizes that, it's hard to see the pain and heartache that Zach has been putting himself through for years. Some great characters here and the sex scenes are smoking hot. Like whew, hot.
About Zach:
Oh Zach. That's a long time to carry a torch, my friend, a long time.
Best friends and former child actors Abby and Zach are made for each other. Too bad only one of them realizes that, it's hard to see the pain and heartache that Zach has been putting himself through for years. Some great characters here and the sex scenes are smoking hot. Like whew, hot.
About Zach:
July 21, 2013
How strange.
The last book I read,Come Be My Love by Diana Brown, featured a heroine so deeply (and unreasonably) in love with the hero that she completely changes her life for him while he remains oblivious and lives his life with other women for years.
Wrecked is basically the same story but here it's the hero who's been pining for the heroine. And for 17 years no less. He owns the heroine of Come Be My Love in that department.
I had Wrecked on my Kindle in my TBR folder and clicked on it without remembering what it was about (it's been sitting there, unread, for a while) so it was a real surprise to read 2 versions of the same unrequited love story back to back.
There are differences of course. The main one is that Zach, the hero, has dated during the 17 years he's been in love with Abby and is certainly no virgin. Yeah, he's devoted but not *that* devoted apparently.
What remained the same was that the other party (Abby here and Darius in CBML) not only had no idea the other felt that way but also had 0 romantic interest in him/her.
Now, I liked Wrecked better than I did CBML but I think it's because we come into the story when Abby is starting to find Zach disturbingly attractive. We didn't spend 80% of the book following Zack through all the years he spent watching Abby living her life with 2 men (one in college and then later on her fiancé) the way we did in CBML.
But I can't really buy the romance. We're not really talking of a "Friends to lovers" story here (although Zach and Abby are very good friends). We're talking of a guy who spent the last 17 years doing everything he could to stay near a girl he was in love with. Is it romantic? Yes, probably, in an over-the top way. But don't ask me to believe that Abby suddenly "saw the light" after being dumped by her fiancé and then she just knew Zach was The One. 17 years, people. 17 years...
The way everyone around Zack knew of his love and the way they were borderline resentful of Abby unconsciously hurting him for all these years makes it pretty darn unbelievable that no one caved in and told her/ let slip everything before the timeline in which this book happens. But then again, if Abby's clueless reaction when the clues start to filter in is any indication, maybe they did mention it obliquely before and it went right over her head.
I'm the queen of double standards and I usually like unrequited love on the hero's part (not so much on the heroine's part) but here, the way it was handled, I really couldn't buy it.
The last book I read,Come Be My Love by Diana Brown, featured a heroine so deeply (and unreasonably) in love with the hero that she completely changes her life for him while he remains oblivious and lives his life with other women for years.
Wrecked is basically the same story but here it's the hero who's been pining for the heroine. And for 17 years no less. He owns the heroine of Come Be My Love in that department.
I had Wrecked on my Kindle in my TBR folder and clicked on it without remembering what it was about (it's been sitting there, unread, for a while) so it was a real surprise to read 2 versions of the same unrequited love story back to back.
There are differences of course. The main one is that Zach, the hero, has dated during the 17 years he's been in love with Abby and is certainly no virgin. Yeah, he's devoted but not *that* devoted apparently.
What remained the same was that the other party (Abby here and Darius in CBML) not only had no idea the other felt that way but also had 0 romantic interest in him/her.
Now, I liked Wrecked better than I did CBML but I think it's because we come into the story when Abby is starting to find Zach disturbingly attractive. We didn't spend 80% of the book following Zack through all the years he spent watching Abby living her life with 2 men (one in college and then later on her fiancé) the way we did in CBML.
But I can't really buy the romance. We're not really talking of a "Friends to lovers" story here (although Zach and Abby are very good friends). We're talking of a guy who spent the last 17 years doing everything he could to stay near a girl he was in love with. Is it romantic? Yes, probably, in an over-the top way. But don't ask me to believe that Abby suddenly "saw the light" after being dumped by her fiancé and then she just knew Zach was The One. 17 years, people. 17 years...
The way everyone around Zack knew of his love and the way they were borderline resentful of Abby unconsciously hurting him for all these years makes it pretty darn unbelievable that no one caved in and told her/ let slip everything before the timeline in which this book happens. But then again, if Abby's clueless reaction when the clues start to filter in is any indication, maybe they did mention it obliquely before and it went right over her head.
I'm the queen of double standards and I usually like unrequited love on the hero's part (not so much on the heroine's part) but here, the way it was handled, I really couldn't buy it.
April 17, 2015
Sometimes it is nice to get lost in a romance that features a really good beta hero. You get so inundated with alpha heroes sometimes, that I feel authors feel like they can't create a compelling, strong hero unless he is also presented with all his uber macho on display.
It is also rather nice to read a book where from page one the hero is deeply in love with the heroine.
The conflict in this book, which is set up rather well, is that the hero Zach has been in love with the heroine Abigale all their lives. They grew up together. They starred together as kids in a popular sitcom that was cancelled after they reached the rather less cute teen aged years.
And through it all they became each others absolute best friend. Or in the case of Zach, an unrequited love for his best friend.
Part of reason, also rather well set up I thought, was because of their different childhoods. Although they both grew up in Hollywood and lived the often thankless lives of child stars, their home life couldn't have been more different.
Abigale's mother was a selfish, pushy stage mother who lived the high-life through her daughter, almost bankrupting her in the end and creating a thoroughly chaotic unsettled life for the young girl. Added to this, Abigale's mother also paraded a succession of less and less savory men through Abigale's life.
As a result, Abigale didn't have a very good role model or even opinion of love and marriage. Her one safe harbor was her friendship with Zach. She holds onto that with both hands.
In contrast Zach has a large close knit family who have always been very loving and supportive. He is a lot more open to the idea of love and Happily Ever After. But he knows Abigale's hang ups and how much she treasures his friendship. That and the fact that she has never, not once, given any signs she thinks of him as more.
So he's in love and she's oblivious. Now he is at a point where he no longer wants her to be oblivious so he makes a move.
At its base this is a friends-to-lovers story with some family drama thrown in. In most FTL stories I've read the two either have a moment where they both realize they want something more, or there is a catalyst that changes how they look at each other or mybe one of them is feeling a little more attracted than the other. But I think this is the first one I've read where one of them is just obviously heads over heels from the jump.
I think I could have been a little more exasperated with Zach's failure to make his move earlier, especially since everybody on the planet except Abigale is aware of his feelings. Except I think the author did a really good job of establishing the stakes. Zach and Abigale's friendship was so strong and so deep and her issues were so real, that you get why he'd hesitate for so long. Choosing instead to preserve the unbreakable friendship rather than test it with a possibly risky relationship.
And truthfully, I didn't have to be exasperated, there were several characters in the book who were exasperated on my behalf. I also rather liked there were some who were a little pissed at Abigale for being so oblivious when all was said and done. So there were a nice group of supporting characters who I thought reacted rather realistically as observers to the drama should.
This was a sweet romance, rather much sweeter than I am used to with this author. But I really enjoyed it.
It is also rather nice to read a book where from page one the hero is deeply in love with the heroine.
The conflict in this book, which is set up rather well, is that the hero Zach has been in love with the heroine Abigale all their lives. They grew up together. They starred together as kids in a popular sitcom that was cancelled after they reached the rather less cute teen aged years.
And through it all they became each others absolute best friend. Or in the case of Zach, an unrequited love for his best friend.
Part of reason, also rather well set up I thought, was because of their different childhoods. Although they both grew up in Hollywood and lived the often thankless lives of child stars, their home life couldn't have been more different.
Abigale's mother was a selfish, pushy stage mother who lived the high-life through her daughter, almost bankrupting her in the end and creating a thoroughly chaotic unsettled life for the young girl. Added to this, Abigale's mother also paraded a succession of less and less savory men through Abigale's life.
As a result, Abigale didn't have a very good role model or even opinion of love and marriage. Her one safe harbor was her friendship with Zach. She holds onto that with both hands.
In contrast Zach has a large close knit family who have always been very loving and supportive. He is a lot more open to the idea of love and Happily Ever After. But he knows Abigale's hang ups and how much she treasures his friendship. That and the fact that she has never, not once, given any signs she thinks of him as more.
So he's in love and she's oblivious. Now he is at a point where he no longer wants her to be oblivious so he makes a move.
At its base this is a friends-to-lovers story with some family drama thrown in. In most FTL stories I've read the two either have a moment where they both realize they want something more, or there is a catalyst that changes how they look at each other or mybe one of them is feeling a little more attracted than the other. But I think this is the first one I've read where one of them is just obviously heads over heels from the jump.
I think I could have been a little more exasperated with Zach's failure to make his move earlier, especially since everybody on the planet except Abigale is aware of his feelings. Except I think the author did a really good job of establishing the stakes. Zach and Abigale's friendship was so strong and so deep and her issues were so real, that you get why he'd hesitate for so long. Choosing instead to preserve the unbreakable friendship rather than test it with a possibly risky relationship.
And truthfully, I didn't have to be exasperated, there were several characters in the book who were exasperated on my behalf. I also rather liked there were some who were a little pissed at Abigale for being so oblivious when all was said and done. So there were a nice group of supporting characters who I thought reacted rather realistically as observers to the drama should.
This was a sweet romance, rather much sweeter than I am used to with this author. But I really enjoyed it.
November 23, 2014
Buddy read with Ange
Wrecked was my last read of 2013 and what a way to end the year on a reading high because I absolutely loved this book! I love a good friends to lovers story and this was a brilliant one with some of the most likeable characters I've come across in a long time.
Abby and Zach have been best friends since they were child stars on a TV show together but Abby never had the slightest clue that Zach was head over heels in love with her. Abby's childhood was a bit of a nightmare with a pushy mother who wanted her daughter to be a star and didn't care what it cost her to achieve those goals as long as Abby was making lots of money. After leaving home when she was just 17 Abby became very independent and has worked hard at building up her catering company, she lives her life by set routines and likes to plan everything well in advance after a childhood of chaos. Zach is the only person who has never let her down, no matter what else has happened in her life he is always there for her and they have an incredibly strong friendship. He knows her inside out and when she starts to question things in her life he is the one who knows exactly how to push her out of her comfort zone by buying her the Wreck This Journal and helping her set about shaking up her world.
I loved Abby, she is so down to earth and just a genuinely nice girl who deserved to find happiness. The friendship she has with Zach was just fabulous, they have such a strong bond and obviously care deeply for each other. Zach moved across the country to set up his home near to Abby, he is a successful tattoo artist (have I mentioned before how much I love guys with tattoos?) who loves his job and is happy with his life in general. The only thing missing is Abby's love but he has always felt it was better to have her in his life as a friend rather than not at all. When Abby starts showing signs that she might be interested in taking things further between them he jumps at the chance to show her how good things could be between them. If there was ever a fictional character that I want to bring to life and have step out of the page and into my life it is Zach, he is pretty much perfect and totally swoon worthy. Scenes with him and Abby were scorching hot - especially when he paints a temporary tattoo on her body, that one made me melt!
There is just so much to enjoy about Wrecked, the creative use of the diary, the fun banter and humour, the great bond of friendship that turns into red hot chemistry and everything in between. There was one moment when I worried that a certain event had been included just to create extra drama but Shiloh Walker turned that trope on it's head and the way Abby reacted was utterly perfect. I honestly don't think I could have enjoyed this story more and I can't tell you how excited I was when I read on the author's website that she will be writing at least 2 stories about Zach's brothers & possibly more if those do well. I know I'll be putting those books to the top of my wish list as soon as they're written and I can't wait to revisit Zach's family!
Wrecked was my last read of 2013 and what a way to end the year on a reading high because I absolutely loved this book! I love a good friends to lovers story and this was a brilliant one with some of the most likeable characters I've come across in a long time.
Abby and Zach have been best friends since they were child stars on a TV show together but Abby never had the slightest clue that Zach was head over heels in love with her. Abby's childhood was a bit of a nightmare with a pushy mother who wanted her daughter to be a star and didn't care what it cost her to achieve those goals as long as Abby was making lots of money. After leaving home when she was just 17 Abby became very independent and has worked hard at building up her catering company, she lives her life by set routines and likes to plan everything well in advance after a childhood of chaos. Zach is the only person who has never let her down, no matter what else has happened in her life he is always there for her and they have an incredibly strong friendship. He knows her inside out and when she starts to question things in her life he is the one who knows exactly how to push her out of her comfort zone by buying her the Wreck This Journal and helping her set about shaking up her world.
I loved Abby, she is so down to earth and just a genuinely nice girl who deserved to find happiness. The friendship she has with Zach was just fabulous, they have such a strong bond and obviously care deeply for each other. Zach moved across the country to set up his home near to Abby, he is a successful tattoo artist (have I mentioned before how much I love guys with tattoos?) who loves his job and is happy with his life in general. The only thing missing is Abby's love but he has always felt it was better to have her in his life as a friend rather than not at all. When Abby starts showing signs that she might be interested in taking things further between them he jumps at the chance to show her how good things could be between them. If there was ever a fictional character that I want to bring to life and have step out of the page and into my life it is Zach, he is pretty much perfect and totally swoon worthy. Scenes with him and Abby were scorching hot - especially when he paints a temporary tattoo on her body, that one made me melt!
There is just so much to enjoy about Wrecked, the creative use of the diary, the fun banter and humour, the great bond of friendship that turns into red hot chemistry and everything in between. There was one moment when I worried that a certain event had been included just to create extra drama but Shiloh Walker turned that trope on it's head and the way Abby reacted was utterly perfect. I honestly don't think I could have enjoyed this story more and I can't tell you how excited I was when I read on the author's website that she will be writing at least 2 stories about Zach's brothers & possibly more if those do well. I know I'll be putting those books to the top of my wish list as soon as they're written and I can't wait to revisit Zach's family!
December 29, 2015
Review copy provided via NetGalley
Why I Read this Book: I really enjoy reading Shiloh Walker’s contemporary romance and romantic suspense novels. She writes well-defined characters, great storylines, and most importantly - great smut.
What I Liked: I absolutely LOVE a good friends-to-lovers romance. It’s like the characters get the best of both worlds - they have their best friend and lover all in one package. There’s also this special kind of connection between them that not all couples have. And on top of that, Abby and Zach were both very likable people. They're good peeps with big hearts and great personalities.
Zach’s a tattoo artist. That’s hot! And when he inked Abby, HOT! Can you tell I have a thing for tattoo artists in romance novels? I also liked the aspect of the characters both having a prior celebrity status. I enjoy reading about celebrity characters, especially when they fall in love with a commoner, and this was kind of a mishmash of those two things.
I thought the 'Wreck This Journal' itself was a very interesting plot device. It was almost like the journal itself was a character in its own rite. I thought the inclusion of this journal upped the ante on the level of interesting fun for these characters and the storyline.
I am definitely interested in Zane and Keelie’s story. I need that book. So much so, I made notation of this TWICE in my ebook copy. Hell, I want a book for Travis, Sebastian, and even Trey too. Trey deserves another chance at love.
What I Didn’t Like: It took Abby a while to see what was right in front of her but it challenged Zach and made him work a little harder to get his girl.
I have to admit that Zane, Zach’s brother, taking sensual pictures of Abby was a little weird. I can definitely see how that might bother Zach.
Memorable Moment: The 6th item on Abby’s ‘Wreck This Life Plan’, which I cannot divulge. You’ll just have to read Wrecked and see for yourself. *wink wink*
Overall Impression: Wrecked was a cute and fun romance to read with a very interesting plot device. If you love a good friends-to-lovers romance, like I do, then Wrecked is the book for you.
Why I Read this Book: I really enjoy reading Shiloh Walker’s contemporary romance and romantic suspense novels. She writes well-defined characters, great storylines, and most importantly - great smut.
What I Liked: I absolutely LOVE a good friends-to-lovers romance. It’s like the characters get the best of both worlds - they have their best friend and lover all in one package. There’s also this special kind of connection between them that not all couples have. And on top of that, Abby and Zach were both very likable people. They're good peeps with big hearts and great personalities.
Zach’s a tattoo artist. That’s hot! And when he inked Abby, HOT! Can you tell I have a thing for tattoo artists in romance novels? I also liked the aspect of the characters both having a prior celebrity status. I enjoy reading about celebrity characters, especially when they fall in love with a commoner, and this was kind of a mishmash of those two things.
I thought the 'Wreck This Journal' itself was a very interesting plot device. It was almost like the journal itself was a character in its own rite. I thought the inclusion of this journal upped the ante on the level of interesting fun for these characters and the storyline.
I am definitely interested in Zane and Keelie’s story. I need that book. So much so, I made notation of this TWICE in my ebook copy. Hell, I want a book for Travis, Sebastian, and even Trey too. Trey deserves another chance at love.
What I Didn’t Like: It took Abby a while to see what was right in front of her but it challenged Zach and made him work a little harder to get his girl.
I have to admit that Zane, Zach’s brother, taking sensual pictures of Abby was a little weird. I can definitely see how that might bother Zach.
Memorable Moment: The 6th item on Abby’s ‘Wreck This Life Plan’, which I cannot divulge. You’ll just have to read Wrecked and see for yourself. *wink wink*
Overall Impression: Wrecked was a cute and fun romance to read with a very interesting plot device. If you love a good friends-to-lovers romance, like I do, then Wrecked is the book for you.
September 9, 2013
Friday I downloaded The Protected and wanted sooo bad to start it, but I was very, very busy at work and I could upload the book on my reader only two minutes before going home, so in a rush I opened my Shiloh Walker folder and bindly drag and dropped the book the last book there without looking at the title... So I ended with Wrecked on my reader.
I strated reading it without looking on the title (thinking that I was reading the Protected)!
I keep asking myself where was the suspense! LMAO
This book is NOT Romantic Suspense! It's JUST Romance! LOL
It's a cute story about friends-to-lovers. And I admit that I enjoyed it.
But there was this annoying bit about the heroine who didn't notice that her best friend is in love with her for... 17 years!!!!!
I thought it was a bit over-the-top!!!!
Other than that it was light and fun read!
I strated reading it without looking on the title (thinking that I was reading the Protected)!
I keep asking myself where was the suspense! LMAO
This book is NOT Romantic Suspense! It's JUST Romance! LOL
It's a cute story about friends-to-lovers. And I admit that I enjoyed it.
But there was this annoying bit about the heroine who didn't notice that her best friend is in love with her for... 17 years!!!!!
I thought it was a bit over-the-top!!!!
Other than that it was light and fun read!
June 18, 2013
I'm usually a sucker for boy longing unrequitedly for girl until she suddenly realizes what she's been looking for has been right in front of her all along. But this one never gave any reason for why boy loves girl, nor for why girl suddenly started thinking about boy in a carnal, rather than a friendly, way. And the way another female character is denigrated for her unrequited crush on our male protagonist, while boy protagonist (and his brother) are both lauded for their long-term crushes on girls who don't notice them, gives the icky feeling that girls are obligated to return a boy's feelings, that boys' feelings are what matter.
March 7, 2016
I adore a good best friends turned lovers theme and this one was good.
I loved how well they fit together. They truly were best friends who knew everything about each other. That they had sexual chemistry - once they crossed that line - was just an added bonus. I had no problem believing they could go the distance.
I loved how well they fit together. They truly were best friends who knew everything about each other. That they had sexual chemistry - once they crossed that line - was just an added bonus. I had no problem believing they could go the distance.
March 19, 2018
This book is the epitome of romance. Oh my God! So romantic! Abigale is clueless about Zach’s feelings and she so wrapped up in her past that I believe her. When she starts seeing Zach as more than a friend the heat factor skyrockets. http://thetbrpile.weebly.com/reviews/...
April 11, 2013
Joint review originally posted here: http://thebookpushers.com/2013/04/04/...
Publisher: Berkely
Publish Date: April 2nd
How we got this book: e-ARC from author
In the nineties, Abigale Applegate and Zach Barnes were the most beloved sitcom child stars in the world. Then they grew up and left Hollywood behind…
Whatever happened to Abigale Applegate?
She’s been wondering the same thing.
With her Hollywood dreams long gone, Abigale now has a nice, neat, uncomplicated life—until the day her perfect fiancé needs to talk. Dumped, a little more than shattered, and totally confused, Abigale turns to Zach, her best friend since forever, to help her pick up the pieces. He does it with a gift—a copy of Wreck This Journal. She can vent her frustrations, and sketch out a new plan. Zach just hopes he’s part of it. Because he’s been in love with Abigale his entire life.
When the journal falls into Zach’s hands, he discovers Abigale wants a new man. And fast. Nothing more than a hot distraction. Zach has a strategy, too. He’s going to be that man. It’s his last chance. Abigale might be out to shake up her life, but Zach’s out to reinvent it. Now, all he has to do is convince Abigale that life can go as planned.
*Blurb from Goodreads*
MinnChica: This story holds a very special place in my heart. First of all, I was with Walker at the Tucson Festival of Books the weekend that she found the WRECK THIS JOURNAL and this story was born. Second, it takes place in my hometown, Tucson, and I love the fact that my city is so wonderfully portrayed. Third, this is a friends to lovers story, and one that is done in such a way that I found myself falling head over heels for both Zach and Abby from the very first moment they stepped onto the page!
E: Like MinnChica this story is really special to me. I was lucky enough to watch Walker come up with the seeds of this story during the 2012 Tucson Festival of Books. Starting with those seeds then months later reading the finished novel was an amazing glimpse in both the skill and the art of an author. Walker combined several things I enjoy – friends to lovers, life and how it doesn’t always follow your plans, a great cast of supporting characters and memorable main characters to create a wonderful read. I had a blast following Zach and Abby’s interactions through WRECKED.
MinnChica: I am a huge fan of friends to lovers stories, and I thought that Zach and Abby had such a beautiful story. Although their friendship didn’t exactly start like a normal childhood friendship, they had some pretty intense bonds holding them together. A childhood in the spotlight of Hollywood, and Zach’s ability to always save Abby from her overbearing mother. I could feel how difficult it was for them to start a romantic relationships, and especially for Abby, having to deal with enough change as it was. Plus, watching Abby discover who she really was through the journal was so sweet!
E: I really liked how Walker highlighted the fact that child stars have just as many if not more issues then children who grow up without the spotlight. Zach was always a ground source for Abby yet she had him stuck firmly in the friend zone. I really felt for Zach as he tried to be supportive of Abby in her previous relationships because he didn’t want to jeopardize their friendship. The sacrifices he made were just amazing. I also felt for Abby as she struggled to deal with the wreckage of her life’s plans and to put the pieces back together again. Although for someone who decided to stop planning she certainly didn’t stop with the lists **grin**. Like MinnChica I really enjoyed watching Abby discover herself with a lot of hard work and some assistance. While Zach’s growth wasn’t as spectacular on screen he certainly made some hard decisions and risked his entire future. It was also lovely to have a hero that wasn’t all grrr Alpha and had a loving family behind him who had already opened up to Abby. Granted not everyone understood but that just added to the depths in their story.
MinnChica: Although it seemed like we didn’t spend a lot of page time with the secondary characters, I really enjoyed reading about Zach’s brothers and family. They added a certain balance to the book, and a great external conflict for Zach and Abby. I liked that they were divided about the growing relationship, and that although there were some jerky attitudes, it was an abrasive show of love for Zach. I don’t know if Walker has plans to continue writing in this “world,” but if she does, I would love to see Zach’s brothers get their own chance at love. Especially if we get to see Zach and Abby a little more.
E: Like you I loved Zach’s family. There was so much love and sibling rivalry between them that I enjoyed every second they came on screen. I have some serious hopes that Walker will continue write in this world because I would love to see them spotlighted individually along with their family dynamic. It was really good to see the mix of acceptance and anger over Zach and Abby’s relationship over the years because it showed that they cared instead of just disliking Abby because she was Zach’s girlfriend. They also provided a great contrast to Abby’s family over the years and helped show that a HEA was possible.
MinnChica: All in all I thought that Wrecked was a wonderful contemporary romance. I love the friends to lovers stories so much, and I thought that Walker did a wonderful job with these friends. I hope that we will get to see more stories from this group of friends and that we will be able to see Abby and Zach getting to enjoy their ever after. Contemporary romance fans definitely need to add this book to their To-Be-Read stack!
I give Wrecked a B
E: Wrecked has been one of the best new contemporaries I have read lately. Yes it holds a special place because I saw the initial seeds but that also meant I had high expectations for the end result. Walker certainly met those expectations and made me hope for more in this particular world. I enjoyed all of the characters as well as catching a glimpse of familiar territory. Like MinnChica I certainly recommend this those who enjoy contemporaries or friends to lovers.
I give Wrecked an A-
Publisher: Berkely
Publish Date: April 2nd
How we got this book: e-ARC from author
In the nineties, Abigale Applegate and Zach Barnes were the most beloved sitcom child stars in the world. Then they grew up and left Hollywood behind…
Whatever happened to Abigale Applegate?
She’s been wondering the same thing.
With her Hollywood dreams long gone, Abigale now has a nice, neat, uncomplicated life—until the day her perfect fiancé needs to talk. Dumped, a little more than shattered, and totally confused, Abigale turns to Zach, her best friend since forever, to help her pick up the pieces. He does it with a gift—a copy of Wreck This Journal. She can vent her frustrations, and sketch out a new plan. Zach just hopes he’s part of it. Because he’s been in love with Abigale his entire life.
When the journal falls into Zach’s hands, he discovers Abigale wants a new man. And fast. Nothing more than a hot distraction. Zach has a strategy, too. He’s going to be that man. It’s his last chance. Abigale might be out to shake up her life, but Zach’s out to reinvent it. Now, all he has to do is convince Abigale that life can go as planned.
*Blurb from Goodreads*
MinnChica: This story holds a very special place in my heart. First of all, I was with Walker at the Tucson Festival of Books the weekend that she found the WRECK THIS JOURNAL and this story was born. Second, it takes place in my hometown, Tucson, and I love the fact that my city is so wonderfully portrayed. Third, this is a friends to lovers story, and one that is done in such a way that I found myself falling head over heels for both Zach and Abby from the very first moment they stepped onto the page!
E: Like MinnChica this story is really special to me. I was lucky enough to watch Walker come up with the seeds of this story during the 2012 Tucson Festival of Books. Starting with those seeds then months later reading the finished novel was an amazing glimpse in both the skill and the art of an author. Walker combined several things I enjoy – friends to lovers, life and how it doesn’t always follow your plans, a great cast of supporting characters and memorable main characters to create a wonderful read. I had a blast following Zach and Abby’s interactions through WRECKED.
MinnChica: I am a huge fan of friends to lovers stories, and I thought that Zach and Abby had such a beautiful story. Although their friendship didn’t exactly start like a normal childhood friendship, they had some pretty intense bonds holding them together. A childhood in the spotlight of Hollywood, and Zach’s ability to always save Abby from her overbearing mother. I could feel how difficult it was for them to start a romantic relationships, and especially for Abby, having to deal with enough change as it was. Plus, watching Abby discover who she really was through the journal was so sweet!
E: I really liked how Walker highlighted the fact that child stars have just as many if not more issues then children who grow up without the spotlight. Zach was always a ground source for Abby yet she had him stuck firmly in the friend zone. I really felt for Zach as he tried to be supportive of Abby in her previous relationships because he didn’t want to jeopardize their friendship. The sacrifices he made were just amazing. I also felt for Abby as she struggled to deal with the wreckage of her life’s plans and to put the pieces back together again. Although for someone who decided to stop planning she certainly didn’t stop with the lists **grin**. Like MinnChica I really enjoyed watching Abby discover herself with a lot of hard work and some assistance. While Zach’s growth wasn’t as spectacular on screen he certainly made some hard decisions and risked his entire future. It was also lovely to have a hero that wasn’t all grrr Alpha and had a loving family behind him who had already opened up to Abby. Granted not everyone understood but that just added to the depths in their story.
MinnChica: Although it seemed like we didn’t spend a lot of page time with the secondary characters, I really enjoyed reading about Zach’s brothers and family. They added a certain balance to the book, and a great external conflict for Zach and Abby. I liked that they were divided about the growing relationship, and that although there were some jerky attitudes, it was an abrasive show of love for Zach. I don’t know if Walker has plans to continue writing in this “world,” but if she does, I would love to see Zach’s brothers get their own chance at love. Especially if we get to see Zach and Abby a little more.
E: Like you I loved Zach’s family. There was so much love and sibling rivalry between them that I enjoyed every second they came on screen. I have some serious hopes that Walker will continue write in this world because I would love to see them spotlighted individually along with their family dynamic. It was really good to see the mix of acceptance and anger over Zach and Abby’s relationship over the years because it showed that they cared instead of just disliking Abby because she was Zach’s girlfriend. They also provided a great contrast to Abby’s family over the years and helped show that a HEA was possible.
MinnChica: All in all I thought that Wrecked was a wonderful contemporary romance. I love the friends to lovers stories so much, and I thought that Walker did a wonderful job with these friends. I hope that we will get to see more stories from this group of friends and that we will be able to see Abby and Zach getting to enjoy their ever after. Contemporary romance fans definitely need to add this book to their To-Be-Read stack!
I give Wrecked a B
E: Wrecked has been one of the best new contemporaries I have read lately. Yes it holds a special place because I saw the initial seeds but that also meant I had high expectations for the end result. Walker certainly met those expectations and made me hope for more in this particular world. I enjoyed all of the characters as well as catching a glimpse of familiar territory. Like MinnChica I certainly recommend this those who enjoy contemporaries or friends to lovers.
I give Wrecked an A-
August 29, 2014
4.5 Stars - I decided to round this up because the more I think about it the happier I am, and the less the little things that bothered me even matter anymore.
Review:
I first became intrigued with the idea of this book when I heard something mentioned in regards to Wreck This Journal; I've had my eye on it ever since. Finally, finally I read an excerpt and was hooked. I immediately purchased it, and settled in to read.
Wrecked (previously titled Wreck This Life) had me at the beginning with the friends-to-lovers trope - I love this set-up, so much. But what kept me invested was the characters themselves. Both Abby and Zach were childhood stars on a sitcom, both of them got out of the life, and both try to live normal lives now.
Abby's now a caterer, that likes to have complete control through planning every step of her life. She had a life plan from seventeen onwards and when she's thrown off track she's not sure how to handle having her plans so thoroughly ruined. In comes Wreck This Journal, and Abby comes up with a new plan. Not a life-plan, but a for-now-plan. I love how she takes these small steps to becoming more who she is - letting life happen a little and going with the flow. The rewards are well worth it.
Speaking of the rewards - Zach is a fabulous hero. He's been Abby's best friend since they were kids. She's always known she could count on him. What she didn't know was that he's also been in love with her since they were kids. Unable to stand being away from her, he settled in the same town she did - starting his own business, a tattoo shop. And can I just say how sexy it is that he designs and does tattoos? Being completely shallow here for a moment, the descriptions of his tattoos … they just make him hotter. But on top of that Zach's funny and kind and steady - he's comfortable in the best possible way.
I knew from the first moment I saw them together they were meant to be together. They have a great chemistry and it's easy to see why and how they fall in love. Speaking of chemistry - the scene where Zach paints a temporary tattoo on Abby's torso? Smoking hot!! Shiloh Walker has some great steamy scenes in this book.
I had a few minor issues - one of them centering around a euphemism choice that's not really important. The other one was addressed in the story itself. I'm not a fan of misunderstandings and lack of talking about how you feel, but I really liked how these were utilized here. Abby does misunderstand something, but I liked that she came to the (truthful) conclusion on her and went about reconnecting with Zach without him having to chase her down - not that he wasn't trying! And towards the mid-point of the book I was ready to shake both of them so they'd acknowledge what they felt to the other - but how this was addressed later in the book really made me re-evaluate, and when they did declare their love, I was so, so happy.
I'm so glad I finished out 2013 reading this book - Wrecked is a fantastic, sweet, sexy, and fun contemporary romance and I'm hoping against hope that we get stories about Zach's brothers (who make a brief appearance here).
Review:
I first became intrigued with the idea of this book when I heard something mentioned in regards to Wreck This Journal; I've had my eye on it ever since. Finally, finally I read an excerpt and was hooked. I immediately purchased it, and settled in to read.
Wrecked (previously titled Wreck This Life) had me at the beginning with the friends-to-lovers trope - I love this set-up, so much. But what kept me invested was the characters themselves. Both Abby and Zach were childhood stars on a sitcom, both of them got out of the life, and both try to live normal lives now.
Abby's now a caterer, that likes to have complete control through planning every step of her life. She had a life plan from seventeen onwards and when she's thrown off track she's not sure how to handle having her plans so thoroughly ruined. In comes Wreck This Journal, and Abby comes up with a new plan. Not a life-plan, but a for-now-plan. I love how she takes these small steps to becoming more who she is - letting life happen a little and going with the flow. The rewards are well worth it.
Speaking of the rewards - Zach is a fabulous hero. He's been Abby's best friend since they were kids. She's always known she could count on him. What she didn't know was that he's also been in love with her since they were kids. Unable to stand being away from her, he settled in the same town she did - starting his own business, a tattoo shop. And can I just say how sexy it is that he designs and does tattoos? Being completely shallow here for a moment, the descriptions of his tattoos … they just make him hotter. But on top of that Zach's funny and kind and steady - he's comfortable in the best possible way.
I knew from the first moment I saw them together they were meant to be together. They have a great chemistry and it's easy to see why and how they fall in love. Speaking of chemistry - the scene where Zach paints a temporary tattoo on Abby's torso? Smoking hot!! Shiloh Walker has some great steamy scenes in this book.
I had a few minor issues - one of them centering around a euphemism choice that's not really important. The other one was addressed in the story itself. I'm not a fan of misunderstandings and lack of talking about how you feel, but I really liked how these were utilized here. Abby does misunderstand something, but I liked that she came to the (truthful) conclusion on her and went about reconnecting with Zach without him having to chase her down - not that he wasn't trying! And towards the mid-point of the book I was ready to shake both of them so they'd acknowledge what they felt to the other - but how this was addressed later in the book really made me re-evaluate, and when they did declare their love, I was so, so happy.
I'm so glad I finished out 2013 reading this book - Wrecked is a fantastic, sweet, sexy, and fun contemporary romance and I'm hoping against hope that we get stories about Zach's brothers (who make a brief appearance here).
July 12, 2013
Title: Wrecked
Author: Shiloh Walker
Genre: Contemporary
In the nineties, Abigale Applegate and Zach Barnes were the most beloved sitcom child stars in the world. Then they grew up and left Hollywood behind…
Whatever happened to Abigale Applegate?
She’s been wondering the same thing.
With her Hollywood dreams long gone, Abigale now has a nice, neat, uncomplicated life—until the day her perfect fiancé needs to talk. Dumped, a little more than shattered, and totally confused, Abigale turns to Zach, her best friend since forever, to help her pick up the pieces. He does it with a gift—a copy of Wreck This Journal. She can vent her frustrations, and sketch out a new plan. Zach just hopes he’s part of it. Because he’s been in love with Abigale his entire life.
When the journal falls into Zach’s hands, he discovers Abigale wants a new man. And fast. Nothing more than a hot distraction. Zach has a strategy, too. He’s going to be that man. It’s his last chance. Abigale might be out to shake up her life, but Zach’s out to reinvent it. Now, all he has to do is convince Abigale that life can go as planned.
I've only read a couple of Shiloh's books and I have to admit I've really enjoyed them. So when I received this book I was excited to read it.
Reading this book I had mixed feelings. One hand I loved Zach, there was nothing about him I didn't like. From his tattooed body...ok I admit I drooled a lot when his body was described. To his devotion to Abigale. I loved how he knew who and what he was and wasn't afraid to follow his dreams. Even when one dream seemed completely unattainable.
Abigale on the other hand drove me bat shit crazy. Granted if I'd lived her childhood I would probably have reacted the same way. Once she started to work on the things in her journal well then my feelings for her started to change. Especially as she was trying to change.
This is one of this books where you, at least I did, start off not liking the heroine but by the end of the book cheering her on. Her journey to finding out who she is and what makes her really happy is one we (meaning women) can appreciate and enjoy.
Zach...well he pretty much rocks it through out the book.
If you like great contemporary stories with hot heroes who think the heroine is perfect even if she's a little anal retentive about some things then you will love this book. I know I did.
This will be a book I will re-read for me at least once a year.
Grade A-
Review by: Heather
http://www.thebookreadinggals.com
Author: Shiloh Walker
Genre: Contemporary
In the nineties, Abigale Applegate and Zach Barnes were the most beloved sitcom child stars in the world. Then they grew up and left Hollywood behind…
Whatever happened to Abigale Applegate?
She’s been wondering the same thing.
With her Hollywood dreams long gone, Abigale now has a nice, neat, uncomplicated life—until the day her perfect fiancé needs to talk. Dumped, a little more than shattered, and totally confused, Abigale turns to Zach, her best friend since forever, to help her pick up the pieces. He does it with a gift—a copy of Wreck This Journal. She can vent her frustrations, and sketch out a new plan. Zach just hopes he’s part of it. Because he’s been in love with Abigale his entire life.
When the journal falls into Zach’s hands, he discovers Abigale wants a new man. And fast. Nothing more than a hot distraction. Zach has a strategy, too. He’s going to be that man. It’s his last chance. Abigale might be out to shake up her life, but Zach’s out to reinvent it. Now, all he has to do is convince Abigale that life can go as planned.
I've only read a couple of Shiloh's books and I have to admit I've really enjoyed them. So when I received this book I was excited to read it.
Reading this book I had mixed feelings. One hand I loved Zach, there was nothing about him I didn't like. From his tattooed body...ok I admit I drooled a lot when his body was described. To his devotion to Abigale. I loved how he knew who and what he was and wasn't afraid to follow his dreams. Even when one dream seemed completely unattainable.
Abigale on the other hand drove me bat shit crazy. Granted if I'd lived her childhood I would probably have reacted the same way. Once she started to work on the things in her journal well then my feelings for her started to change. Especially as she was trying to change.
This is one of this books where you, at least I did, start off not liking the heroine but by the end of the book cheering her on. Her journey to finding out who she is and what makes her really happy is one we (meaning women) can appreciate and enjoy.
Zach...well he pretty much rocks it through out the book.
If you like great contemporary stories with hot heroes who think the heroine is perfect even if she's a little anal retentive about some things then you will love this book. I know I did.
This will be a book I will re-read for me at least once a year.
Grade A-
Review by: Heather
http://www.thebookreadinggals.com
April 4, 2013
Review originally posted at Ramblings From This Chick
If I'm completely honest, I'm bummed that I'm finished with this book. I was not ready to be done with Abby and Zach. They had such great chemistry with one another that it was a pleasure to read their story.
I'm a sucker for the friends to lover's troupe and this one was done oh so well. This is one of my favorite books that I've read in a while and I can't wait to read more. I seriously hope that this book is part of a series because I loved the world and the characters that encompass it. Shiloh Walker introduced us to many characters that I definitely would love to see more of.
The sparks between Abby and Zach are explosive and their scenes tend to jump off the page. I liked that there really weren't any mind games or plots twists. It's a story of two best friends finally realizing that the love they have for one another transcends friendship and becomes so much more than either bargained for.
What makes Wrecked such a great story is the characters. Abby is great and I loved seeing her transformation from an uptight chick to someone that is able to let loose and become comfortable in her own skin.
And Zach...oh Zach, how I love him. He really made the book for me. I'm so glad that he got his HEA. Zach has been in love with Abby for seventeen years. Yes, seventeen years. In that time he has been Abby's best friend and confidant. All the while always wanting to more and waiting for his chance to make his move. What I like the most about Zach, is that he doesn't make excuses and isn't ashamed of his feelings or the fact that he's been in love with his best friend for so long. There is nothing that he wouldn't for Abby and I loved that about him. He never wavers in his feelings though I do wish he didn't have to wait so long for his chance to make a move.
Yes, parts of this story are predictable but it's such a charming read that you forget all about that. I had a smile on my face through the whole book and I found I never wanted to put the book down. I simply adored this book from beginning to end.
**ARC provided by Publisher**
If I'm completely honest, I'm bummed that I'm finished with this book. I was not ready to be done with Abby and Zach. They had such great chemistry with one another that it was a pleasure to read their story.
I'm a sucker for the friends to lover's troupe and this one was done oh so well. This is one of my favorite books that I've read in a while and I can't wait to read more. I seriously hope that this book is part of a series because I loved the world and the characters that encompass it. Shiloh Walker introduced us to many characters that I definitely would love to see more of.
The sparks between Abby and Zach are explosive and their scenes tend to jump off the page. I liked that there really weren't any mind games or plots twists. It's a story of two best friends finally realizing that the love they have for one another transcends friendship and becomes so much more than either bargained for.
What makes Wrecked such a great story is the characters. Abby is great and I loved seeing her transformation from an uptight chick to someone that is able to let loose and become comfortable in her own skin.
And Zach...oh Zach, how I love him. He really made the book for me. I'm so glad that he got his HEA. Zach has been in love with Abby for seventeen years. Yes, seventeen years. In that time he has been Abby's best friend and confidant. All the while always wanting to more and waiting for his chance to make his move. What I like the most about Zach, is that he doesn't make excuses and isn't ashamed of his feelings or the fact that he's been in love with his best friend for so long. There is nothing that he wouldn't for Abby and I loved that about him. He never wavers in his feelings though I do wish he didn't have to wait so long for his chance to make a move.
Yes, parts of this story are predictable but it's such a charming read that you forget all about that. I had a smile on my face through the whole book and I found I never wanted to put the book down. I simply adored this book from beginning to end.
**ARC provided by Publisher**
May 10, 2013
While I enjoyed this book, and I'll most likely pick up something on Walker's backlist, there were a few things that bugged me.
I love that Abigale is quite content to live her life according to her own rules, that she doesn't bend to Hollywood's version of beauty. And Zach's approach to wooing her makes a lot of sense...and DAYUM does he sound hot. Yum. The way their relationship changes actually comes about naturally, despite the crazy jump start it got.
But Abby's actions toward the end struck me as immature, and it irked me that Zach never got pissed about it. I get that he's been in love with her most of his life, but her behavior was inexcusable to me. That Zach didn't even approach the realm of anger took him down a notch or two in my eyes.
If you're looking for a fun, sexy distraction for a few hours, though, this'll work. This'll work REAL well.
I love that Abigale is quite content to live her life according to her own rules, that she doesn't bend to Hollywood's version of beauty. And Zach's approach to wooing her makes a lot of sense...and DAYUM does he sound hot. Yum. The way their relationship changes actually comes about naturally, despite the crazy jump start it got.
But Abby's actions toward the end struck me as immature, and it irked me that Zach never got pissed about it. I get that he's been in love with her most of his life, but her behavior was inexcusable to me. That Zach didn't even approach the realm of anger took him down a notch or two in my eyes.
If you're looking for a fun, sexy distraction for a few hours, though, this'll work. This'll work REAL well.
April 7, 2013
Although I did get tired of Zach hiding his feelings for Abby and Abby for being clueless, I did enjoy reading this one. Things really started to get fun after the two finally hooked up and Abby started to clue into Zach's feelings, seemingly dropped by family and friends. I thought Zach's trip to the hospital would do it, but it didn't, instead things boiled down to jealousy and betrayal. For some reason I loved Abby's uncomfortableness at this point, loved how she was forced to wake up and really look at things. I thought her plan to get back to Zach was great, the photos and the last grand gesture were awesome, as was the subtle smack down she gave. The end was perfect and fit the book and the couple.
August 29, 2015
Loved this. So, so good.
Boy, was this a fab read. A friends-to-lovers romance that was intense, romantic and sexy as hell. I wanted Zach for myself! The hero and heroine were so good as friends but even better as lovers, I didn't want their story to end. Of course there were a few niggles, as with any book. The heroine was a bit slow on the uptake, but this was such a great story, with wonderful characters and it had me completely hooked. I couldn't put it down, not even for a minute.
Boy, was this a fab read. A friends-to-lovers romance that was intense, romantic and sexy as hell. I wanted Zach for myself! The hero and heroine were so good as friends but even better as lovers, I didn't want their story to end. Of course there were a few niggles, as with any book. The heroine was a bit slow on the uptake, but this was such a great story, with wonderful characters and it had me completely hooked. I couldn't put it down, not even for a minute.
April 3, 2013
Read my first look at Heroes and Heartbreakers.
http://www.heroesandheartbreakers.com...
http://www.heroesandheartbreakers.com...
March 20, 2018
here is never a dull moment with this book and lots of hot ones. The ending is perfect and I’ve already ordered the next book in this series. I love this book so much I’m raiding the author back list for more to read! If you’re looking for a romantic read, stop right here! Wrecked by Shiloh Walker is a must read! http://thetbrpile.weebly.com/reviews/...
April 13, 2013
Joint review originally posted here: http://thebookpushers.com/2013/04/04/...
MinnChica: This story holds a very special place in my heart. First of all, I was with Walker at the Tucson Festival of Books the weekend that she found the WRECK THIS JOURNAL and this story was born. Second, it takes place in my hometown, Tucson, and I love the fact that my city is so wonderfully portrayed. Third, this is a friends to lovers story, and one that is done in such a way that I found myself falling head over heels for both Zach and Abby from the very first moment they stepped onto the page!
E: Like MinnChica this story is really special to me. I was lucky enough to watch Walker come up with the seeds of this story during the 2012 Tucson Festival of Books. Starting with those seeds then months later reading the finished novel was an amazing glimpse in both the skill and the art of an author. Walker combined several things I enjoy – friends to lovers, life and how it doesn’t always follow your plans, a great cast of supporting characters and memorable main characters to create a wonderful read. I had a blast following Zach and Abby’s interactions through WRECKED.
MinnChica: I am a huge fan of friends to lovers stories, and I thought that Zach and Abby had such a beautiful story. Although their friendship didn’t exactly start like a normal childhood friendship, they had some pretty intense bonds holding them together. A childhood in the spotlight of Hollywood, and Zach’s ability to always save Abby from her overbearing mother. I could feel how difficult it was for them to start a romantic relationships, and especially for Abby, having to deal with enough change as it was. Plus, watching Abby discover who she really was through the journal was so sweet!
E: I really liked how Walker highlighted the fact that child stars have just as many if not more issues then children who grow up without the spotlight. Zach was always a ground source for Abby yet she had him stuck firmly in the friend zone. I really felt for Zach as he tried to be supportive of Abby in her previous relationships because he didn’t want to jeopardize their friendship. The sacrifices he made were just amazing. I also felt for Abby as she struggled to deal with the wreckage of her life’s plans and to put the pieces back together again. Although for someone who decided to stop planning she certainly didn’t stop with the lists **grin**. Like MinnChica I really enjoyed watching Abby discover herself with a lot of hard work and some assistance. While Zach’s growth wasn’t as spectacular on screen he certainly made some hard decisions and risked his entire future. It was also lovely to have a hero that wasn’t all grrr Alpha and had a loving family behind him who had already opened up to Abby. Granted not everyone understood but that just added to the depths in their story.
MinnChica: Although it seemed like we didn’t spend a lot of page time with the secondary characters, I really enjoyed reading about Zach’s brothers and family. They added a certain balance to the book, and a great external conflict for Zach and Abby. I liked that they were divided about the growing relationship, and that although there were some jerky attitudes, it was an abrasive show of love for Zach. I don’t know if Walker has plans to continue writing in this “world,” but if she does, I would love to see Zach’s brothers get their own chance at love. Especially if we get to see Zach and Abby a little more.
E: Like you I loved Zach’s family. There was so much love and sibling rivalry between them that I enjoyed every second they came on screen. I have some serious hopes that Walker will continue write in this world because I would love to see them spotlighted individually along with their family dynamic. It was really good to see the mix of acceptance and anger over Zach and Abby’s relationship over the years because it showed that they cared instead of just disliking Abby because she was Zach’s girlfriend. They also provided a great contrast to Abby’s family over the years and helped show that a HEA was possible.
MinnChica: All in all I thought that Wrecked was a wonderful contemporary romance. I love the friends to lovers stories so much, and I thought that Walker did a wonderful job with these friends. I hope that we will get to see more stories from this group of friends and that we will be able to see Abby and Zach getting to enjoy their ever after. Contemporary romance fans definitely need to add this book to their To-Be-Read stack!
I give Wrecked a B
E: Wrecked has been one of the best new contemporaries I have read lately. Yes it holds a special place because I saw the initial seeds but that also meant I had high expectations for the end result. Walker certainly met those expectations and made me hope for more in this particular world. I enjoyed all of the characters as well as catching a glimpse of familiar territory. Like MinnChica I certainly recommend this those who enjoy contemporaries or friends to lovers.
I give Wrecked an A-
MinnChica: This story holds a very special place in my heart. First of all, I was with Walker at the Tucson Festival of Books the weekend that she found the WRECK THIS JOURNAL and this story was born. Second, it takes place in my hometown, Tucson, and I love the fact that my city is so wonderfully portrayed. Third, this is a friends to lovers story, and one that is done in such a way that I found myself falling head over heels for both Zach and Abby from the very first moment they stepped onto the page!
E: Like MinnChica this story is really special to me. I was lucky enough to watch Walker come up with the seeds of this story during the 2012 Tucson Festival of Books. Starting with those seeds then months later reading the finished novel was an amazing glimpse in both the skill and the art of an author. Walker combined several things I enjoy – friends to lovers, life and how it doesn’t always follow your plans, a great cast of supporting characters and memorable main characters to create a wonderful read. I had a blast following Zach and Abby’s interactions through WRECKED.
MinnChica: I am a huge fan of friends to lovers stories, and I thought that Zach and Abby had such a beautiful story. Although their friendship didn’t exactly start like a normal childhood friendship, they had some pretty intense bonds holding them together. A childhood in the spotlight of Hollywood, and Zach’s ability to always save Abby from her overbearing mother. I could feel how difficult it was for them to start a romantic relationships, and especially for Abby, having to deal with enough change as it was. Plus, watching Abby discover who she really was through the journal was so sweet!
E: I really liked how Walker highlighted the fact that child stars have just as many if not more issues then children who grow up without the spotlight. Zach was always a ground source for Abby yet she had him stuck firmly in the friend zone. I really felt for Zach as he tried to be supportive of Abby in her previous relationships because he didn’t want to jeopardize their friendship. The sacrifices he made were just amazing. I also felt for Abby as she struggled to deal with the wreckage of her life’s plans and to put the pieces back together again. Although for someone who decided to stop planning she certainly didn’t stop with the lists **grin**. Like MinnChica I really enjoyed watching Abby discover herself with a lot of hard work and some assistance. While Zach’s growth wasn’t as spectacular on screen he certainly made some hard decisions and risked his entire future. It was also lovely to have a hero that wasn’t all grrr Alpha and had a loving family behind him who had already opened up to Abby. Granted not everyone understood but that just added to the depths in their story.
MinnChica: Although it seemed like we didn’t spend a lot of page time with the secondary characters, I really enjoyed reading about Zach’s brothers and family. They added a certain balance to the book, and a great external conflict for Zach and Abby. I liked that they were divided about the growing relationship, and that although there were some jerky attitudes, it was an abrasive show of love for Zach. I don’t know if Walker has plans to continue writing in this “world,” but if she does, I would love to see Zach’s brothers get their own chance at love. Especially if we get to see Zach and Abby a little more.
E: Like you I loved Zach’s family. There was so much love and sibling rivalry between them that I enjoyed every second they came on screen. I have some serious hopes that Walker will continue write in this world because I would love to see them spotlighted individually along with their family dynamic. It was really good to see the mix of acceptance and anger over Zach and Abby’s relationship over the years because it showed that they cared instead of just disliking Abby because she was Zach’s girlfriend. They also provided a great contrast to Abby’s family over the years and helped show that a HEA was possible.
MinnChica: All in all I thought that Wrecked was a wonderful contemporary romance. I love the friends to lovers stories so much, and I thought that Walker did a wonderful job with these friends. I hope that we will get to see more stories from this group of friends and that we will be able to see Abby and Zach getting to enjoy their ever after. Contemporary romance fans definitely need to add this book to their To-Be-Read stack!
I give Wrecked a B
E: Wrecked has been one of the best new contemporaries I have read lately. Yes it holds a special place because I saw the initial seeds but that also meant I had high expectations for the end result. Walker certainly met those expectations and made me hope for more in this particular world. I enjoyed all of the characters as well as catching a glimpse of familiar territory. Like MinnChica I certainly recommend this those who enjoy contemporaries or friends to lovers.
I give Wrecked an A-
April 2, 2013
Zach and Abs
Really enjoyed this one. Zach is just wonderful. Full review on Fiction Vixen Book Reviews
Best friends to lovers is one of my favorite romance tropes. Normally it is the girl falling for the guy and hiding it for so long but in Wrecked by Shiloh Walker the opposite happens and I adored our hero Zach for it.
Abigale Applegate and Zach Barnes have been best friends for what seems like ever. As children they were co-stars on a successful sitcom. The glamorous life is not what either one of them wanted and they both moved on as soon as the could. Abby moved on from more than Hollywood though as she left “the woman shall not be named” or her mother, behind also. After living through many years of her mother controlling her life Abby finally grabs the reins. She has clear goals set and nothing is going to stop her from accomplishing them.
At least that is what she thinks up until the moment her fiancée dumps her because he doesn’t think she is being true to herself. Abby is devastated. I got the feeling she more upset about the fact that she might not complete her well set out goals than she was about her fiancée leaving. But when he leaves she turns to the one person who is always there for her. Zach.
Zach has been in love with Abby since they were kids and has become an expert at hiding it from her.
He could wait until she was ready
He’d been waiting for Abby for a long, long time.
Everyone else knows but somehow Abby has never seen him like that. When Zach finds out that she is no longer getting married he allows himself to feel hope again. Maybe this will be the time she notices him as more than a friend. He encourages her to make new life goals and then is floored when he finds out one of those goals is to have a torrid affair. He needs to convince Abby that he is the one to have that affair with and then also convince her that they could be so much more.
Zach, oh Zach. What to say about a yummy, amazing hero. How can you not adore a man who has been in love with a woman pretty much his whole life? He even moved to another state for her, though he disguised it as just being a good location to open up his business. I liked Zach so much that I found myself angry at Abby for not seeing what he felt. How could she not see the awesomeness that had been in front of her for so long? And let’s not even mention the tattooed goodness that he is. Hello??
Fortunately, Abby doesn’t need too much convincing to take Zach up on his torrid affair offer. The chemistry between Zach and Abby is off the charts and the emotion in each scene is heartbreakingly poignant. I was so rooting for their HEA. The balance Zach has to maintain to not push Abby too hard, too fast is very well done. Everyone else in his life was harping at him to tell her but he stayed true to what he has always been.
Ah, the last 10% of this book about made my heart beat out of my chest. It was so perfect. For so many years, Zach has been the one to hide his feelings and I wanted his devotion to be repaid in kind. I was so happy with the way Abby declared her love for Zach. If it had just been a simple I love you, I probably would have gotten cranky. But it wasn’t. Everything that happened was sigh worthy.
As with all reviews we pick a favorite quote and the quote I chose absolutely made me melt. I did a serious happy sigh with a little teary hiccup. I am a sappy dork. I know. Final grade- B+
Favorite Quote:
“Abby,” he murmured, lifting a hand to curve around her neck. “I love you.”
A sob slipped free and she wrapped her arms around his waist. One of his hands cupped the back of her neck and cuddled her in close.
As he bent around her, he whispered, “I’ve loved you so long, I can’t remember what it’s like to not love you. And I’ll go to my grave loving you. You’re my everything.”
Really enjoyed this one. Zach is just wonderful. Full review on Fiction Vixen Book Reviews
Best friends to lovers is one of my favorite romance tropes. Normally it is the girl falling for the guy and hiding it for so long but in Wrecked by Shiloh Walker the opposite happens and I adored our hero Zach for it.
Abigale Applegate and Zach Barnes have been best friends for what seems like ever. As children they were co-stars on a successful sitcom. The glamorous life is not what either one of them wanted and they both moved on as soon as the could. Abby moved on from more than Hollywood though as she left “the woman shall not be named” or her mother, behind also. After living through many years of her mother controlling her life Abby finally grabs the reins. She has clear goals set and nothing is going to stop her from accomplishing them.
At least that is what she thinks up until the moment her fiancée dumps her because he doesn’t think she is being true to herself. Abby is devastated. I got the feeling she more upset about the fact that she might not complete her well set out goals than she was about her fiancée leaving. But when he leaves she turns to the one person who is always there for her. Zach.
Zach has been in love with Abby since they were kids and has become an expert at hiding it from her.
He could wait until she was ready
He’d been waiting for Abby for a long, long time.
Everyone else knows but somehow Abby has never seen him like that. When Zach finds out that she is no longer getting married he allows himself to feel hope again. Maybe this will be the time she notices him as more than a friend. He encourages her to make new life goals and then is floored when he finds out one of those goals is to have a torrid affair. He needs to convince Abby that he is the one to have that affair with and then also convince her that they could be so much more.
Zach, oh Zach. What to say about a yummy, amazing hero. How can you not adore a man who has been in love with a woman pretty much his whole life? He even moved to another state for her, though he disguised it as just being a good location to open up his business. I liked Zach so much that I found myself angry at Abby for not seeing what he felt. How could she not see the awesomeness that had been in front of her for so long? And let’s not even mention the tattooed goodness that he is. Hello??
Fortunately, Abby doesn’t need too much convincing to take Zach up on his torrid affair offer. The chemistry between Zach and Abby is off the charts and the emotion in each scene is heartbreakingly poignant. I was so rooting for their HEA. The balance Zach has to maintain to not push Abby too hard, too fast is very well done. Everyone else in his life was harping at him to tell her but he stayed true to what he has always been.
Ah, the last 10% of this book about made my heart beat out of my chest. It was so perfect. For so many years, Zach has been the one to hide his feelings and I wanted his devotion to be repaid in kind. I was so happy with the way Abby declared her love for Zach. If it had just been a simple I love you, I probably would have gotten cranky. But it wasn’t. Everything that happened was sigh worthy.
As with all reviews we pick a favorite quote and the quote I chose absolutely made me melt. I did a serious happy sigh with a little teary hiccup. I am a sappy dork. I know. Final grade- B+
Favorite Quote:
“Abby,” he murmured, lifting a hand to curve around her neck. “I love you.”
A sob slipped free and she wrapped her arms around his waist. One of his hands cupped the back of her neck and cuddled her in close.
As he bent around her, he whispered, “I’ve loved you so long, I can’t remember what it’s like to not love you. And I’ll go to my grave loving you. You’re my everything.”
April 19, 2013
Shiloh Walker never disappoints the reader in me. Her characters are always intriguing, people you’d like to know. And the way she weaves a story together is imaginative and fun. However, it’s the emotional impact of her work that always resonates with me. It’s a soul-deep impact that pulls me further into the book, has its hooks in me until the very end. So while Wrecked is a very good read, for me the emotional punch I’ve come to expect from Ms. Walker doesn’t hit as deep as it usually does.
In fact, the emotion is mostly on the hero’s side. The heroine takes much too long to come to grips with her feelings, she’s too focused on the past and messing up their friendship and her emotions are all over the place and loses impact. Zach has loved Abigale a good portion of his life. They met as teenagers when they starred together in a hit TV show. After enjoying a number of years of fame, the show is over and both of them get out of the business, but their best friend status has endured. Abigale finally gets out from under her controlling mother’s thumb, and Zach is left following Abby wherever she goes just to be close to her. He opens his tattoo shop and keeps his feelings to himself…until…
Abby’s fiance breaks their engagement. This is Zach’s chance to make his move, but he also knows he has to go slow with her. Trying to help he gives life-controlling, list-oriented Abby a journal to help wreck her life – live a little, let things happen as they may. Abby finally embraces the new book and makes a different kind of list to try to become a wilder, more carefree Abby. On that list is to have a torrid affair with a hot guy. Well, having never seen what’s always been right in front of her, Abby begins looking for a hot guy.
Zach does a great job of moving in on Abby, especially when he discovers her list. All slow and tender, teasing, and so very sensual. Of course, Abby is thrown for a loop, Zach’s never done this before, what’s going on?? Everyone and his brother knows what Abby doesn’t, but everyone goes along with Zach, keeping his secret for the time being. But even when someone makes an offhand comment to Abby about his feelings, she’s still fairly clueless. Then when she does finally find that clue, she’s up in arms about losing the friendship between them, she doesn’t want to ruin that. She never looks at the opposite side, what she might gain by letting go and loving the man in an entirely different way. But that process takes most of the book, and so many times I wanted to shake that woman silly!
When Abby does decide to give it a go, however, the heat between these two characters is molten. Zach is a hungry man when it comes to Abby, and he feasts as often as he can. Though she’s moved past the friendship barrier, Abby still has moments when she’s not sure the fire between them is the right thing, but you can see her leave that mindset behind little by little. I just wish it’d happened a little faster. When she finds that inner mojo, she does let loose, and there’s a lot of fun to be had with her then. And I do enjoy her unique way in letting Zach know her feelings near the end. It’s Zach, though, who makes this book for me. You feel his frustration, his loss, then his joy and happiness, his need and want for Abby. He’s a hero who has it all and he’s a joy to read.
There are a number of secondary characters who are fun and tell it like it is. I like Zach’s family; they look out for him, though he wishes they’d leave him alone. And I really like Abby’s other best friend, Marin, another one who isn’t afraid to let Abby know what’s what and helps where she can. I’m hoping all these characters might mean more books coming our way. In Ms. Walker’s hands, a lot of fun can be had with them all.
See my complete review at http://www.goodbadandunread.com
In fact, the emotion is mostly on the hero’s side. The heroine takes much too long to come to grips with her feelings, she’s too focused on the past and messing up their friendship and her emotions are all over the place and loses impact. Zach has loved Abigale a good portion of his life. They met as teenagers when they starred together in a hit TV show. After enjoying a number of years of fame, the show is over and both of them get out of the business, but their best friend status has endured. Abigale finally gets out from under her controlling mother’s thumb, and Zach is left following Abby wherever she goes just to be close to her. He opens his tattoo shop and keeps his feelings to himself…until…
Abby’s fiance breaks their engagement. This is Zach’s chance to make his move, but he also knows he has to go slow with her. Trying to help he gives life-controlling, list-oriented Abby a journal to help wreck her life – live a little, let things happen as they may. Abby finally embraces the new book and makes a different kind of list to try to become a wilder, more carefree Abby. On that list is to have a torrid affair with a hot guy. Well, having never seen what’s always been right in front of her, Abby begins looking for a hot guy.
Zach does a great job of moving in on Abby, especially when he discovers her list. All slow and tender, teasing, and so very sensual. Of course, Abby is thrown for a loop, Zach’s never done this before, what’s going on?? Everyone and his brother knows what Abby doesn’t, but everyone goes along with Zach, keeping his secret for the time being. But even when someone makes an offhand comment to Abby about his feelings, she’s still fairly clueless. Then when she does finally find that clue, she’s up in arms about losing the friendship between them, she doesn’t want to ruin that. She never looks at the opposite side, what she might gain by letting go and loving the man in an entirely different way. But that process takes most of the book, and so many times I wanted to shake that woman silly!
When Abby does decide to give it a go, however, the heat between these two characters is molten. Zach is a hungry man when it comes to Abby, and he feasts as often as he can. Though she’s moved past the friendship barrier, Abby still has moments when she’s not sure the fire between them is the right thing, but you can see her leave that mindset behind little by little. I just wish it’d happened a little faster. When she finds that inner mojo, she does let loose, and there’s a lot of fun to be had with her then. And I do enjoy her unique way in letting Zach know her feelings near the end. It’s Zach, though, who makes this book for me. You feel his frustration, his loss, then his joy and happiness, his need and want for Abby. He’s a hero who has it all and he’s a joy to read.
There are a number of secondary characters who are fun and tell it like it is. I like Zach’s family; they look out for him, though he wishes they’d leave him alone. And I really like Abby’s other best friend, Marin, another one who isn’t afraid to let Abby know what’s what and helps where she can. I’m hoping all these characters might mean more books coming our way. In Ms. Walker’s hands, a lot of fun can be had with them all.
See my complete review at http://www.goodbadandunread.com
May 20, 2013
A sweet, contemporary romance between childhood best friends.
My Take
This was just lovely and too cute how carefully Abby and Zach dance around their own thoughts and each other. Terrified of losing each other's friendship, knowing everything about each other, and unable to stop thinking about the other.
It is almost too twee how they tip-toe around each other, but Walker walks that line and keeps it sweetly real, although I find it hard to believe that Zach could truly convince Abigale that he "just happened" to find a perfect available building in a city that Abby's moved to. It's also hard to believe that Abby has been that obtuse for that long about Zach's feelings, just as it's pretty unbelievable that Zach keeps from making a move for all those years. It's certainly not an insta-love.
Walker provides all the background we need even as she drops us into a critical period for Abby with her dreams collapsing. It's just a "day" in the life as we get a feel for Abby and Zach's relationship---their shared past and current day with friends and family along with their dreams for the future.
Seems a little too coincidental that certain people, too blinded by their own desires, are suddenly doing their best to shove an oar in Zach's plans. Then there's Abby's extreme reaction at Zach's shop when Keelie has her own reaction to Zach's lecture.
It's a cozy armchair of a read that will find you laughing and crying, and ultimately pleased.
The Story
With the heartbreak of Roger's breaking up with Abby, she takes refuge in her listmaking, her way of controlling what's careening out of control in her life. Again.
Only Zach has another idea for her. Listmaking with a built-in chaos factor that sends Abby on a wild ride. And nothing will ever be the same between the friends again.
The Characters
Abigale Applegate got out from under her selfish mother's, Blanche's, control as soon as she was old enough. A former child star, she now works as a caterer operating her own business in Tucson. Marin Del Marco is another child star and friend from the Nate + Kate show, although she's still enjoying her acting career. Marin's just one of many who know how Zach feels about Abby. Leo is Marin's assistant.
Zach Barnes was Abigale's co-star back in the day. Now he's a tattoo artist still in love with Abby seventeen years later. Keelie is his partner with her own issues; Javi is another tattoo artist. Zane (he's incredible with a camera and has a thing for Keelie); the twins, Trey (Cara's widower and he has a son) and Tavis; and, Sebastian, the baby who has taken up his own acting career but has his own issues, are all Zach's brothers. Denise is their wise mother.
Roger is Abigale's newly ex-fiancé. He claims he can't marry a woman who can't be true to herself...gag...
The Cover
The cover is a casual pose with a tired Zach and Abby collapsed on barstools in broad daylight. They're just Wrecked...
My Take
This was just lovely and too cute how carefully Abby and Zach dance around their own thoughts and each other. Terrified of losing each other's friendship, knowing everything about each other, and unable to stop thinking about the other.
It is almost too twee how they tip-toe around each other, but Walker walks that line and keeps it sweetly real, although I find it hard to believe that Zach could truly convince Abigale that he "just happened" to find a perfect available building in a city that Abby's moved to. It's also hard to believe that Abby has been that obtuse for that long about Zach's feelings, just as it's pretty unbelievable that Zach keeps from making a move for all those years. It's certainly not an insta-love.
Walker provides all the background we need even as she drops us into a critical period for Abby with her dreams collapsing. It's just a "day" in the life as we get a feel for Abby and Zach's relationship---their shared past and current day with friends and family along with their dreams for the future.
Seems a little too coincidental that certain people, too blinded by their own desires, are suddenly doing their best to shove an oar in Zach's plans. Then there's Abby's extreme reaction at Zach's shop when Keelie has her own reaction to Zach's lecture.
It's a cozy armchair of a read that will find you laughing and crying, and ultimately pleased.
The Story
With the heartbreak of Roger's breaking up with Abby, she takes refuge in her listmaking, her way of controlling what's careening out of control in her life. Again.
Only Zach has another idea for her. Listmaking with a built-in chaos factor that sends Abby on a wild ride. And nothing will ever be the same between the friends again.
The Characters
Abigale Applegate got out from under her selfish mother's, Blanche's, control as soon as she was old enough. A former child star, she now works as a caterer operating her own business in Tucson. Marin Del Marco is another child star and friend from the Nate + Kate show, although she's still enjoying her acting career. Marin's just one of many who know how Zach feels about Abby. Leo is Marin's assistant.
Zach Barnes was Abigale's co-star back in the day. Now he's a tattoo artist still in love with Abby seventeen years later. Keelie is his partner with her own issues; Javi is another tattoo artist. Zane (he's incredible with a camera and has a thing for Keelie); the twins, Trey (Cara's widower and he has a son) and Tavis; and, Sebastian, the baby who has taken up his own acting career but has his own issues, are all Zach's brothers. Denise is their wise mother.
Roger is Abigale's newly ex-fiancé. He claims he can't marry a woman who can't be true to herself...gag...
The Cover
The cover is a casual pose with a tired Zach and Abby collapsed on barstools in broad daylight. They're just Wrecked...
September 19, 2015
WRECKED started off with a surprise. First of all, because it’s really the first time I read this author with this type of book. I’ve Shiloh’s contemporary romance before, but this one is very much so a sweet and sexy type. So needless to say a surprise for me.
Zach and Abby were very popular child stars and had a successful show together. Now adults, they’ve both stayed away from Hollywood. Abby is a planner and had her life mapped out. She’s checked every item off her list ahead of time, except the wedding. Her fiance thought she was really meant to go back to her life of glitz and glamour and dumps her before the wedding claiming she’s not being herself. Zach, who is and has always been her best friend, is left to try and pick up the broken pieces.
But I have to tell you about Zach, because this man is hot. First of all, from child star to sort of bad boy…. Zach now owns a tattoo shop and yes, he’s a tattoo artist. Not your typical career choice considering where he came from. And then there’s the fact that yes, he has tats. I admit I’m a goner for that. But he’s also solid, and I don’t mean physically only. He’s the best friend, reliable Zach, who you can always count on. A shoulder to cry on. He’s revolved his life around Abby because he’s always been in love with her. Life is now giving him another chance and he’s risking it all to go after what he wants.
So he gives Abby a book called WRECK THIS JOURNAL. And this book turns her planned life upside down and gives her that freedom to explore things and let life happen. One of the things she wants to accomplish is to have an affair and Zach of course volunteers with the intention of making her see they are perfect for each other.
Abby’s planning nature is not something I personally understand because, well I just don’t operate that way. So she got a little on my nerves at times. But I have to give it to the girl, she threw her own caution to the wind and went for what she wanted! And ended up with very sexy and sweet, caring and attentive, Zach in her bed and in her life. I think you get the point that I may have a crush on him.
This story has a small town, sweet and sexy romance feel with just an edge of emotion that made this read a quick and enjoyable for me. I’m definitely looking forward to reading more of this side of Ms. Walker. If you like your heroes hot and sweet you have to read this one!
*ARC provided by publisher
April 28, 2013
Zach Barnes has been in love with his best friend Abigale for what seems like forever. Since they were kids starring in the same tv show. Abigale has been clueless the whole time, but everyone around them knows how Zach really feels.
Abigale ran from LA as fast as she could when her dad died. Anything to get away from that life, and her horrible, overbearing, star climber of a mother. She really thought nothing of it when Zach followed fairly soon after. She totally bought that he just happened to find a job in the area, and, well, Zach was her best friend, he'd always been there, so she just didn't look too closely.
Only now, at age 29, after a broken engagement to an utter asshole, both of them have to rethink things. Zach needs to decide if he's willing to keep waiting on Abigale to SEE him, and Abi needs to figure out her whole messed up life.
It's really not helping settle her mind that she's suddenly starting to think of Zach differently. Little moments, touches that make her shiver, she can't really be looking at Zach like THAT, can she?
Oh, but she can, and we get taken on a lovely ride, as Abigale finally starts to realize what's been staring her in the face all along, and Zach finally decides to reach out and grab what he's wanted for forever.
Abigale is a bit of a mess. She ran from her mother and her life in LA, only to end up engaged to a guy who wants her to go back to that life. When he dumps her, telling her she's not true to herself, at first she thinks it's BS, but the more she thinks, the more she wonders. She loves her life, but yeah, she's a bit uptight, and lonely. All she's ever had that's steady in her life is Zach, and she can't risk losing her best friend if things don't work out.
I absolutely loved Zach, he's just a great guy. Yeah, he's got tattoos, long hair, and runs his own tattoo shop, but never once are we lead to think Zach is a bad boy. He's just a really nice, fantastic hot guy. He loves Abigale SO much, if only she could see. He also has a great family, and I'm guessing we'll be seeing more of them in future books? Hoping?
Abigale ran from LA as fast as she could when her dad died. Anything to get away from that life, and her horrible, overbearing, star climber of a mother. She really thought nothing of it when Zach followed fairly soon after. She totally bought that he just happened to find a job in the area, and, well, Zach was her best friend, he'd always been there, so she just didn't look too closely.
Only now, at age 29, after a broken engagement to an utter asshole, both of them have to rethink things. Zach needs to decide if he's willing to keep waiting on Abigale to SEE him, and Abi needs to figure out her whole messed up life.
It's really not helping settle her mind that she's suddenly starting to think of Zach differently. Little moments, touches that make her shiver, she can't really be looking at Zach like THAT, can she?
Oh, but she can, and we get taken on a lovely ride, as Abigale finally starts to realize what's been staring her in the face all along, and Zach finally decides to reach out and grab what he's wanted for forever.
Abigale is a bit of a mess. She ran from her mother and her life in LA, only to end up engaged to a guy who wants her to go back to that life. When he dumps her, telling her she's not true to herself, at first she thinks it's BS, but the more she thinks, the more she wonders. She loves her life, but yeah, she's a bit uptight, and lonely. All she's ever had that's steady in her life is Zach, and she can't risk losing her best friend if things don't work out.
I absolutely loved Zach, he's just a great guy. Yeah, he's got tattoos, long hair, and runs his own tattoo shop, but never once are we lead to think Zach is a bad boy. He's just a really nice, fantastic hot guy. He loves Abigale SO much, if only she could see. He also has a great family, and I'm guessing we'll be seeing more of them in future books? Hoping?
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