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Stewart Realty #6
Escalation Clause
Young love burns hot and bright. Soul mates are found, then lost in the blink of an eye. When young widow Maureen Gordon Taylor meets her daughter's sexy soccer coach, her body and heart slowly thaw. But will holding tight to the past cost her a future?
A devastating blow shatters a family's fragile happiness. Rob Freitag and Lila Warren now confront life without the emotional glue that once bound them, but a shared goal brings them back together. Is it enough to make them whole again and become the family they were meant to be?
Mutual trust is hard won for the Gordons. Then tragedy strikes, sending Jack and Sara’s lives into a tailspin. To keep her family from falling apart, she must force Jack to admit his deepest fears. After everything they’ve been through, can they revive the spark and move to the next stage of marital fulfillment?”
The sweeping saga of the Stewart Realty series continues as long-time friends learn to rely on each other, and to grab hold of happiness before it's too late.
A devastating blow shatters a family's fragile happiness. Rob Freitag and Lila Warren now confront life without the emotional glue that once bound them, but a shared goal brings them back together. Is it enough to make them whole again and become the family they were meant to be?
Mutual trust is hard won for the Gordons. Then tragedy strikes, sending Jack and Sara’s lives into a tailspin. To keep her family from falling apart, she must force Jack to admit his deepest fears. After everything they’ve been through, can they revive the spark and move to the next stage of marital fulfillment?”
The sweeping saga of the Stewart Realty series continues as long-time friends learn to rely on each other, and to grab hold of happiness before it's too late.
334 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 3, 2012
About the author
Liz Crowe
100 books1,230 followersLiz Crowe is a Kentucky native and graduate of the University of Louisville living in South Carolina. She's spent her time as a three-continent expat trailing spouse, mom of three, real estate agent, brewery owner and bar manager, and is currently a digital marketing and fundraising consultant, in addition to being an award-winning author.
The Liz Crowe backlist has something for any reader seeking complex storylines with humor and complete casts of characters that will delight and linger in the imagination long after the book is finished.
Her favorite things to do when she’s not scrolling social media for cute animal videos is walk her dogs, cuddle her cats, and watch her favorite sports teams while scrolling social media for cute animal videos.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
December 13, 2012
You can find our review at
Shh Mom's Reading
www.shhmomsreading.com
and join the conversation at
www.facebook.com/ShhMomsReading
@shhmomsreading
Escalation Clause Book 6 in the Stewart's Realtors series by Liz Crowe is a beautiful literary tapestry that intertwines the stories of three couples.
Ms Crowe will make you feel such a wide range of emotions with these characters, you will grief with them, laugh with them, and swoon with them. For an author to make a readers feel so much is magical and truly speaks to what a gifted writer Ms Crowe is.
Escalation Clause picks up in the aftermath of a tragic event that played out in Book 4 Essence of Time; so warning do not read this book if you have not read Essence of Time.
Ms. Crowe does an amazing job making the families grieve tangible, unique and real in its impact on their lives.
The Gordon's Jack and Sara who fought so hard to find trust and happiness struggle in very real ways to move forward. Jack is forced to face his deepest fears and Sara must learn to walk in the new path life has put in front of her.
Marriage is not easy, marriage takes work and Ms Crowe keeps this relationship real. Liz does a wonderful job maturing Jack and Sara in a way that is relevant to their relationship and their future.
I do not want to give anything away but there is one scene that will break down barriers and leave with a grin from ear to ear; it is masterful and yes hot!
Rob Freitag and Lila Warren are faced with new reality; one they had not planned for; will their shared experience bring them together or pull them apart. Ms Crowe again does a wonderful job with this couple forcing them to embark on the new journey thrust upon them; watching Rob and Lila's struggle to find a place that belongs to just the two of them was emotional and heartfelt; there are times you will want to cry with them and times you will end up wanting to your fan yourself from the heat between these two.
This book also provided you with a picture of Jack's sister Maureen Gordon Taylor (Mo), a widow who lost her husband, Jack's high school friend Brandis in a prior book in the series.
You get some wonderful backstory in this book, you see Brandis and Mo interactions as teenagers as well as Jack as a young man dealing with his sister's relationship with his friend.
As the story progresses Mo, now the single mom of two teenage twins is faced with an electric attraction to her daughter's soccer coach, the very sexy Rafeal Inez. Maureen's struggle to accept moving her life forward is compelling, frustrating and full of real emotions. Liz does a wonderful job of using the children, in this case Mo's teenage twins Elle and Adam to illustrate how complex life can be.
Ms Crowe weaves in some wonderful moments that are emotional, funny, and engaging between the male and female characters in this group; they push each other, laugh with each other and mature together.
And for all you parents out there, there are some moments with the children that may have you laughing out loud. As these couples not only deal with a traumatic event but the real everyday life that comes from transitioning from being a couple to being parents and a family.
This book is memorable, engaging and thought provoking. I am writing this review 5 days and two books later and I still can't stop thinking about it.
The book takes you on a journey with long-time friends who learn that happiness is something you have to fight for.
Oh, I have to add that the epilogue for this book is beyond epic and will leave you wanting book 8 Good Faith.
Escalation Clause is the best of the series; true literary genius.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00A...
Shh Mom's Reading
www.shhmomsreading.com
and join the conversation at
www.facebook.com/ShhMomsReading
@shhmomsreading
Escalation Clause Book 6 in the Stewart's Realtors series by Liz Crowe is a beautiful literary tapestry that intertwines the stories of three couples.
Ms Crowe will make you feel such a wide range of emotions with these characters, you will grief with them, laugh with them, and swoon with them. For an author to make a readers feel so much is magical and truly speaks to what a gifted writer Ms Crowe is.
Escalation Clause picks up in the aftermath of a tragic event that played out in Book 4 Essence of Time; so warning do not read this book if you have not read Essence of Time.
Ms. Crowe does an amazing job making the families grieve tangible, unique and real in its impact on their lives.
The Gordon's Jack and Sara who fought so hard to find trust and happiness struggle in very real ways to move forward. Jack is forced to face his deepest fears and Sara must learn to walk in the new path life has put in front of her.
Marriage is not easy, marriage takes work and Ms Crowe keeps this relationship real. Liz does a wonderful job maturing Jack and Sara in a way that is relevant to their relationship and their future.
I do not want to give anything away but there is one scene that will break down barriers and leave with a grin from ear to ear; it is masterful and yes hot!
Rob Freitag and Lila Warren are faced with new reality; one they had not planned for; will their shared experience bring them together or pull them apart. Ms Crowe again does a wonderful job with this couple forcing them to embark on the new journey thrust upon them; watching Rob and Lila's struggle to find a place that belongs to just the two of them was emotional and heartfelt; there are times you will want to cry with them and times you will end up wanting to your fan yourself from the heat between these two.
This book also provided you with a picture of Jack's sister Maureen Gordon Taylor (Mo), a widow who lost her husband, Jack's high school friend Brandis in a prior book in the series.
You get some wonderful backstory in this book, you see Brandis and Mo interactions as teenagers as well as Jack as a young man dealing with his sister's relationship with his friend.
As the story progresses Mo, now the single mom of two teenage twins is faced with an electric attraction to her daughter's soccer coach, the very sexy Rafeal Inez. Maureen's struggle to accept moving her life forward is compelling, frustrating and full of real emotions. Liz does a wonderful job of using the children, in this case Mo's teenage twins Elle and Adam to illustrate how complex life can be.
Ms Crowe weaves in some wonderful moments that are emotional, funny, and engaging between the male and female characters in this group; they push each other, laugh with each other and mature together.
And for all you parents out there, there are some moments with the children that may have you laughing out loud. As these couples not only deal with a traumatic event but the real everyday life that comes from transitioning from being a couple to being parents and a family.
This book is memorable, engaging and thought provoking. I am writing this review 5 days and two books later and I still can't stop thinking about it.
The book takes you on a journey with long-time friends who learn that happiness is something you have to fight for.
Oh, I have to add that the epilogue for this book is beyond epic and will leave you wanting book 8 Good Faith.
Escalation Clause is the best of the series; true literary genius.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00A...
October 31, 2012
If you have not read the previous novels in Liz Crowe’s Stewart Realty series I would advise you not to read Escalation Clause first. Without the background from the previous novels in the series, Escalation Clause will not make sense.
Jack, Sara and the rest of the characters we have come to love from Liz Crowe’s Stewart Realty series are back in Escalation Clause. I don’t know about the rest of you but I have been counting down the days to get my Jack and Rob fix ;-)
Escalation Clause does not disappoint!! Picking up where Essence of Time left off, everyone is left trying to cope with the aftermath of the devastating tragedy that has profoundly changed them all. Jack and Sara are up to their old tricks, isn’t this why we love them ;-) Will they be able to break old habits or will this finally be their end… Rob and Lila are struggling to cope and keep it all together but is their love really strong enough, can they make it as a couple... Then there’s Maureen (Mo), we have been acquainted with Maureen in previous Stewart Realty series novels but Escalation Clause gives us so much more of her, I absolutely LOVE it! Getting to know Maureen’s story (and what a FABULOUS story it is!) for me, was such a highlight in this novel.
I have always felt close to the characters in this series, feeling that I know them all so well until I read the next novel. Liz has such a talent for character development, she keeps digging deeper into her characters giving the reader so much more that you can’t help feeling even more connected to them.
In true Liz Crowe style, Escalation Clause is packed full of life… This HOT treasure will have you heart breaking, your blood boiling and your pulse racing! Liz Crowe has done it again! N 5/5
Jack, Sara and the rest of the characters we have come to love from Liz Crowe’s Stewart Realty series are back in Escalation Clause. I don’t know about the rest of you but I have been counting down the days to get my Jack and Rob fix ;-)
Escalation Clause does not disappoint!! Picking up where Essence of Time left off, everyone is left trying to cope with the aftermath of the devastating tragedy that has profoundly changed them all. Jack and Sara are up to their old tricks, isn’t this why we love them ;-) Will they be able to break old habits or will this finally be their end… Rob and Lila are struggling to cope and keep it all together but is their love really strong enough, can they make it as a couple... Then there’s Maureen (Mo), we have been acquainted with Maureen in previous Stewart Realty series novels but Escalation Clause gives us so much more of her, I absolutely LOVE it! Getting to know Maureen’s story (and what a FABULOUS story it is!) for me, was such a highlight in this novel.
I have always felt close to the characters in this series, feeling that I know them all so well until I read the next novel. Liz has such a talent for character development, she keeps digging deeper into her characters giving the reader so much more that you can’t help feeling even more connected to them.
In true Liz Crowe style, Escalation Clause is packed full of life… This HOT treasure will have you heart breaking, your blood boiling and your pulse racing! Liz Crowe has done it again! N 5/5
November 8, 2012
I am astounded at the high level of writing that comes from this author. She truely knows how to keep your attention. I started this series in July of this year and quickly, barely put down, each book. Mind you this kind of Real life Romance is not my norm, I stick to PNR's. But through a fabulous FB group her series was recommended to me by the creator of the page. To my surprise after reading several chapters in Floor Time I fell in love with Jack and Sara, Rob & Blake, then Craig & Suzanne, and in the tear jerker EoT Rob, Blake & Lila, and the world that Liz Crowe has created. I've gone through a gamut of emotions from Floor Time to Conditional Offer and now Escalation Clause. This series is NOT any easy ride to a HEA, it's the suspense sitting-on-the-edge-of-your-seat waiting to see what happens next, if in fact there will be a HEA.
Escalation Clause is based mostly on Jack's sister Maureen (MO) and what happened during her husbands death, (which killed me to read when it was brought up), and what her life is like now raising their twins Adam & Ella now teens in HS and soccer athletes and living near her brother in Ann Arbor. She is confused with her feeling for Ella's soccer coach Rafael(Rafe) and her love for her deceased soul mate Brandis. They have a strong attraction and Rafe being Latino is one decedent male hard to resist. Throughout the book we see Mo grieve every year on the same day for Brandis, Adam is her anchor while Ella has withdrawn from her mothers embrace. Finally when it seems Mo will be giving into Rafe her stubborness, much like Jack's, surfaces and lets a loving man who only wants her is pushed away. Toward the end of the book we finally get the pair together after an incident involving Sara. Mo & Rafe are reconciled and she no longer pushes him away but embraces, in her own way, Rafe and everything he offers her.
After the death of Sara's brother Blake (Rob & Lila's lover)everything seems to spiral down into a dark abyss for the Thortons and little Katie. Sara & Jack are drifting farther apart after coming so far with their marriage, and new addition to their family baby Brandis. But the death of her brother is shrowding her emotional state and it is affecting not only her kids and Jack but everyone else around them as well. Taking the initiative Jack takes control and expects Sara to give in to him in the way that only her and Jack know best...sex. He knows she needs it and so does he, but the purpose behind the excurtion is to get Sara to give up her control. Though it seems like it works they drift more apart and we the reader expect the worse. After several months the women are all together (Mo,Julie,Lila & Sara) and give each other advice on how to deal with their situations. It's more Julie than anyone elso who steps in and finites it all. Sara books a surprise vacation to either move on with the marriage in a healthy way or dissolve it. She drives over to Jack's office to pick him up and shit hits the fan. Shannon is there in Jack's embrace. Sara leaves and goes on the vacation and calls Mo & Rob to let them know what has happened. They are pissed more or less and Rob leaves Lila to confront his friend. Needless to say it was all a misunderstanding and we get the best scene ever between Jack and Sara. The pure excitement I had from them and throughout the rest of the book was what we all were truely hoping for this couple!
Craig & Suzanne are rarely mentioned in this book except to let us get our wonderful Hea for them and Lillian Grace!!!
Rob & Lila's journey through EC was tried and true. Rob coming to grips with Blake's death and the fact that he will forever carry him with him always, literally. Rob getting his love for Lila and their son Gabe straight with himself and making the commitment to be a whole family. Lila has concerns about Rob and how he feels for her and decides that she can't deal with his flip flopping heart, she moves out sharing time with Gabe with Rob and then eventually going to work at The Local, Rob & Blakes Brewery/Restaurant. They make it work, but apart and Rob comes to realize he needs her, wants her and all that it entails. He wants to marry her and plan a two year memorial for Blake and try to get back the relationship he once had with Katie. They also want a baby.
By the Epilogue of EC we have come full circle. From beginnig of EC to the Epi we have spanned about 4-5 years with 4 new births and 3 marriages. We have watched these couples grow and mature and read about them as if they were our own family. By the time I finished reading the Epilogue I realized how old Jack & Rob are and how hard it is going to be to read the rest of the series and the new one and so on. Even though I understand the cycle of life and that these characters are fictional they have become more and to one day read in one of her books, if it goes that far, about Jack & Rob's funeral, that may push me over the edge, and because we ALL love the characters that Liz Crowe has worked so hard and given us. Thank You My Dear Lady for showing me there is more to Romance than PNR's!
If you have been on the fence about reading this series, get off and grab them up, you will not regret it one little bit.
Escalation Clause is based mostly on Jack's sister Maureen (MO) and what happened during her husbands death, (which killed me to read when it was brought up), and what her life is like now raising their twins Adam & Ella now teens in HS and soccer athletes and living near her brother in Ann Arbor. She is confused with her feeling for Ella's soccer coach Rafael(Rafe) and her love for her deceased soul mate Brandis. They have a strong attraction and Rafe being Latino is one decedent male hard to resist. Throughout the book we see Mo grieve every year on the same day for Brandis, Adam is her anchor while Ella has withdrawn from her mothers embrace. Finally when it seems Mo will be giving into Rafe her stubborness, much like Jack's, surfaces and lets a loving man who only wants her is pushed away. Toward the end of the book we finally get the pair together after an incident involving Sara. Mo & Rafe are reconciled and she no longer pushes him away but embraces, in her own way, Rafe and everything he offers her.
After the death of Sara's brother Blake (Rob & Lila's lover)everything seems to spiral down into a dark abyss for the Thortons and little Katie. Sara & Jack are drifting farther apart after coming so far with their marriage, and new addition to their family baby Brandis. But the death of her brother is shrowding her emotional state and it is affecting not only her kids and Jack but everyone else around them as well. Taking the initiative Jack takes control and expects Sara to give in to him in the way that only her and Jack know best...sex. He knows she needs it and so does he, but the purpose behind the excurtion is to get Sara to give up her control. Though it seems like it works they drift more apart and we the reader expect the worse. After several months the women are all together (Mo,Julie,Lila & Sara) and give each other advice on how to deal with their situations. It's more Julie than anyone elso who steps in and finites it all. Sara books a surprise vacation to either move on with the marriage in a healthy way or dissolve it. She drives over to Jack's office to pick him up and shit hits the fan. Shannon is there in Jack's embrace. Sara leaves and goes on the vacation and calls Mo & Rob to let them know what has happened. They are pissed more or less and Rob leaves Lila to confront his friend. Needless to say it was all a misunderstanding and we get the best scene ever between Jack and Sara. The pure excitement I had from them and throughout the rest of the book was what we all were truely hoping for this couple!
Craig & Suzanne are rarely mentioned in this book except to let us get our wonderful Hea for them and Lillian Grace!!!
Rob & Lila's journey through EC was tried and true. Rob coming to grips with Blake's death and the fact that he will forever carry him with him always, literally. Rob getting his love for Lila and their son Gabe straight with himself and making the commitment to be a whole family. Lila has concerns about Rob and how he feels for her and decides that she can't deal with his flip flopping heart, she moves out sharing time with Gabe with Rob and then eventually going to work at The Local, Rob & Blakes Brewery/Restaurant. They make it work, but apart and Rob comes to realize he needs her, wants her and all that it entails. He wants to marry her and plan a two year memorial for Blake and try to get back the relationship he once had with Katie. They also want a baby.
By the Epilogue of EC we have come full circle. From beginnig of EC to the Epi we have spanned about 4-5 years with 4 new births and 3 marriages. We have watched these couples grow and mature and read about them as if they were our own family. By the time I finished reading the Epilogue I realized how old Jack & Rob are and how hard it is going to be to read the rest of the series and the new one and so on. Even though I understand the cycle of life and that these characters are fictional they have become more and to one day read in one of her books, if it goes that far, about Jack & Rob's funeral, that may push me over the edge, and because we ALL love the characters that Liz Crowe has worked so hard and given us. Thank You My Dear Lady for showing me there is more to Romance than PNR's!
If you have been on the fence about reading this series, get off and grab them up, you will not regret it one little bit.
November 2, 2012
What I love about this series and this book is that it is not just focuses on one character/ couple. This book takes all the characters that we have grown to love and see how they all cope with the aftermath I the tragedy that they were facedwith at the end is essence of time.
First we see a glimpse I me and mea Thornton when they first let and get a better understanding if why Sara is the way she is. Which I love and you see the growth of their characters as well
Next you have the backstory to Maureen and Brandis which was a great addition to this book. To see how they got together, jacks reaction to it all and how they came to be together. Even knowing how it ends you still become attached to Brandi's. and then we get to see Maureen struggle with loving someone again.
Then there is jack and Sara who both deal with the tragedy in there own ways which causes some frustration on both parts. They have come this far to love, trust and be with each other. Can their love survive?
Then there is rob and Lila who are struggling just as much through this tragedy. Ron not letting Lila in and Lila wondering I he can love her the way she needs an wants to be loved. Will their love survive it all?
All three stories were emotional and heartwarming. You laugh, cry and grieve with all the characters. And if possible I love rob even more after this one:). And I love how Liz Crowe told each one of their stories. Intertwining all three couple together was done in such an amazing way
And the epilogue was just as amazing. Enjoy the read it was an emotional rise but one well worth it.
November 4, 2012
There just aren’t enough superlatives to describe Liz Crowe’s writing, including her latest release, ESCALATION CLAUSE. Crowe is amazing at writing complex, difficult relationships that are completely realistic. Her books cannot be classified as fairy tale romances. She calls them “Romance for Real Life” and what an apt phrase that is! For real life and modeled after real life. To read a Crowe book is to cry tears of great sadness, to fight the temptation to throw your eReader across the room and watch with great satisfaction as it breaks into a million pieces when the frustration is too much and to cry tears of joy. Emotions run high among the characters and the reader!
ESCALATION CLAUSE is the sixth book in her highly successful STEWART REALTY series. Our favorite characters are back and ALL of them have issues to deal with. Jack and Sara are at odds and one has to wonder if these two will ever get their relationship together. Jack’s sister Maureen proves just as challenged at recognizing and embracing love when a new, hot man enters her life following the death of her husband. Rob and Lila are back, trying to define their relationship as they move on without Blake. We even get a closer look at Sara’s parent’s relationship which explains a lot about Sara’s emotional reactions. The good news is that, after going through hell, by the end of the book everyone is enjoying a nice, settled life with another round of babies being born and the next generation of star crossed lover beginning their attractions to each other.
Received from the publisher for an honest review.
ESCALATION CLAUSE is the sixth book in her highly successful STEWART REALTY series. Our favorite characters are back and ALL of them have issues to deal with. Jack and Sara are at odds and one has to wonder if these two will ever get their relationship together. Jack’s sister Maureen proves just as challenged at recognizing and embracing love when a new, hot man enters her life following the death of her husband. Rob and Lila are back, trying to define their relationship as they move on without Blake. We even get a closer look at Sara’s parent’s relationship which explains a lot about Sara’s emotional reactions. The good news is that, after going through hell, by the end of the book everyone is enjoying a nice, settled life with another round of babies being born and the next generation of star crossed lover beginning their attractions to each other.
Received from the publisher for an honest review.
November 12, 2012
Escalation clause in a word is... Intriguing! Liz Crowe does another amazing job in the opening scene setting the ton for the rest of the book.
The beginning:
In the beginning we meet Matthew Thornton and Elizabeth during Beth's residency and it is quiet interesting those two back story and why Sara is... Well Sara! This is the before they were married, why they get married and perhaps a bit of how they stay married.
Maureen & Brandis:
Such a fun back story to read and makes you smile at the memories from your own first love (did for me anyways) and it gives a big insight to the Jack/Brandis friendship. I can't say much w/o spoiling so moving on...
Robert & Lila:
This is such a hard time for the two of them and little Gabe since they are mourning the loss of a dearly loved one. It's been over a year and things seem worse. Lila and Rob can not reconnect and push each other to the breaking point. Rob asks Lila to be the manager of the business "the local" and she excels at it! I think taking this job was the turning point for them. So much happens throughout this book that you feel for them on a personal level.
Jack & Sara:
After Sara's loss of her brother she and Jack are having troubles communicating...hmmm
They have a new little one, Jack's working on a big new project and still running Stewart realty, Sara is crazy with work as the manager of the other Stewart realty that it seems they are falling through the cracks as a couple and just going through the motions...( I can totally relate here!) Sara plans a last ditch save my marriage or else weekend and goes to get Jack but there is a huge.....idk, something happens that i cant share and she leaves in the trip herself. This sets up a much needed drag out fight with two people (i like that they both needed this part) but the weekend happens! SPICY!!
Maureen & Rafe:
Maureen has lost her husband and seems to be going through the motions of life. Caring for her twins and being there for them is about what she is right now. Big things happen at her family construction company Keystone and Jack requests she become the president and run the business side of things. She excels and is really turning things around. Both her children are soccer stars but Ella seems to want more from this and pushes extremely hard to keep going... Enters Rafael Inez into our world... Latino super hot soccer coach! Mo fights with everything she has not to give into temptation and lust. But oh the lust there is here between these two. Over a two year period (I think) these poor people have ups, downs, sideways, and NOTHING at all. Mo is determined to keep her children happy at all costs!
Ending:
We watch these children be born, have rough patches and grow before our very eyes... And you will see the Gabe (Frietag) and Brandis (Gordon) from the get go are very much their fathers children. They fight... Brutally, they share, they fight... Well they act like brothers from day one. And Liz leaves us hanging with a scene that could go very badly for the two of them and it feels like history repeating itself!
I hope this helps and INTRIGUES you to read it!!!
The beginning:
In the beginning we meet Matthew Thornton and Elizabeth during Beth's residency and it is quiet interesting those two back story and why Sara is... Well Sara! This is the before they were married, why they get married and perhaps a bit of how they stay married.
Maureen & Brandis:
Such a fun back story to read and makes you smile at the memories from your own first love (did for me anyways) and it gives a big insight to the Jack/Brandis friendship. I can't say much w/o spoiling so moving on...
Robert & Lila:
This is such a hard time for the two of them and little Gabe since they are mourning the loss of a dearly loved one. It's been over a year and things seem worse. Lila and Rob can not reconnect and push each other to the breaking point. Rob asks Lila to be the manager of the business "the local" and she excels at it! I think taking this job was the turning point for them. So much happens throughout this book that you feel for them on a personal level.
Jack & Sara:
After Sara's loss of her brother she and Jack are having troubles communicating...hmmm
They have a new little one, Jack's working on a big new project and still running Stewart realty, Sara is crazy with work as the manager of the other Stewart realty that it seems they are falling through the cracks as a couple and just going through the motions...( I can totally relate here!) Sara plans a last ditch save my marriage or else weekend and goes to get Jack but there is a huge.....idk, something happens that i cant share and she leaves in the trip herself. This sets up a much needed drag out fight with two people (i like that they both needed this part) but the weekend happens! SPICY!!
Maureen & Rafe:
Maureen has lost her husband and seems to be going through the motions of life. Caring for her twins and being there for them is about what she is right now. Big things happen at her family construction company Keystone and Jack requests she become the president and run the business side of things. She excels and is really turning things around. Both her children are soccer stars but Ella seems to want more from this and pushes extremely hard to keep going... Enters Rafael Inez into our world... Latino super hot soccer coach! Mo fights with everything she has not to give into temptation and lust. But oh the lust there is here between these two. Over a two year period (I think) these poor people have ups, downs, sideways, and NOTHING at all. Mo is determined to keep her children happy at all costs!
Ending:
We watch these children be born, have rough patches and grow before our very eyes... And you will see the Gabe (Frietag) and Brandis (Gordon) from the get go are very much their fathers children. They fight... Brutally, they share, they fight... Well they act like brothers from day one. And Liz leaves us hanging with a scene that could go very badly for the two of them and it feels like history repeating itself!
I hope this helps and INTRIGUES you to read it!!!
November 15, 2012
As with all of the Stewart Reality books, Escalation Clause focuses on the relationship of one couple, in this case Maureen (Mo) Jack's sister and Rafe Inez the sexy soccer coach we saw briefly in book 3, however the story is also filling you in on all the background characters from previous books.
We go back to when Maureen and Brandis first fall in love and see his death through her eyes. We then follow Maureen on the heart wrenching journey of recovering and moving forward after losing a spouse. We are there when she meets Rafe and the ups and downs that happen while she is trying to accept her survivors guilt.
However as much of the book is devoted to filling in areas of previous books that may have been sort of time traveled across in order to tell the story of the primary characters.
We are there while Jack and Sara work out the problems that arise in their marriage, we also see the rocky road by Rob and Lila travel to become a couple. We are shown a glimpse at Sara and Blake's parents early marriage and even a peek into the future with the children of the characters.
This is the latest in the Stewart Reality series and I loved it as much as the others in the series I am also torn, I wish that more time had been spent on Maureen and Rafe and their relationship. I almost feel like this could have been two books one telling the story of Maureen and Rafe and another entire book just filling in the blanks from previous books. So while this is another fantastic book from Liz Crowe the story of Maureen and Rafe is one of the weakest so far. Still with all that being the case I loved it and will be looking forward to book 7.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
We go back to when Maureen and Brandis first fall in love and see his death through her eyes. We then follow Maureen on the heart wrenching journey of recovering and moving forward after losing a spouse. We are there when she meets Rafe and the ups and downs that happen while she is trying to accept her survivors guilt.
However as much of the book is devoted to filling in areas of previous books that may have been sort of time traveled across in order to tell the story of the primary characters.
We are there while Jack and Sara work out the problems that arise in their marriage, we also see the rocky road by Rob and Lila travel to become a couple. We are shown a glimpse at Sara and Blake's parents early marriage and even a peek into the future with the children of the characters.
This is the latest in the Stewart Reality series and I loved it as much as the others in the series I am also torn, I wish that more time had been spent on Maureen and Rafe and their relationship. I almost feel like this could have been two books one telling the story of Maureen and Rafe and another entire book just filling in the blanks from previous books. So while this is another fantastic book from Liz Crowe the story of Maureen and Rafe is one of the weakest so far. Still with all that being the case I loved it and will be looking forward to book 7.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
August 12, 2013
Escalation Clause
By Liz Crowe
Escalation Clause is book six in the wildly loved Stewart Realty Series. It is important to read the rest of the books before you read this one. While it is a great novel in itself, having the backstory really helps.
Escalation Clause fills the reader in on what happens to their favorite characters, Jack, Sara, and Rob while also giving us a deeper look at Jack’s sister Maureen and Sara’s parents. It also sets up the storyline for Liz’s new series- The Black Jack Gentlemen about the expansion soccer team Jack gets started in Detroit.
As a fan and reader of the Stewart Realty series, this book is a must read. I needed to know more about Rob and Lila after Essence of Time and learning about Maureen’s life provided me with a deeper understanding of the dynamics between her, Jack and Sara.
The best part of this book is the interaction between the characters. The women sit and discuss their relationships. The guys threaten and pick on each other. It’s just like real life. The characters fight, worry, make-up and love each other with passion…as family, friends and lovers. They are the type of people you wish you knew.
I highly recommend that readers who love stories about real people and books with passion, read Liz Crowe.
By Liz Crowe
Escalation Clause is book six in the wildly loved Stewart Realty Series. It is important to read the rest of the books before you read this one. While it is a great novel in itself, having the backstory really helps.
Escalation Clause fills the reader in on what happens to their favorite characters, Jack, Sara, and Rob while also giving us a deeper look at Jack’s sister Maureen and Sara’s parents. It also sets up the storyline for Liz’s new series- The Black Jack Gentlemen about the expansion soccer team Jack gets started in Detroit.
As a fan and reader of the Stewart Realty series, this book is a must read. I needed to know more about Rob and Lila after Essence of Time and learning about Maureen’s life provided me with a deeper understanding of the dynamics between her, Jack and Sara.
The best part of this book is the interaction between the characters. The women sit and discuss their relationships. The guys threaten and pick on each other. It’s just like real life. The characters fight, worry, make-up and love each other with passion…as family, friends and lovers. They are the type of people you wish you knew.
I highly recommend that readers who love stories about real people and books with passion, read Liz Crowe.
November 6, 2012
It's amazing! If you're not reading the Stewart Realty series WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU!? You need to start with he first one. The stories build and build! I had the whole visual thru all of the books! It's like a movie in my head while I'm reading!!! Now That's good writing!!
February 18, 2021
An incredible, intense, and emotional journey!
My dear readers- You cannot go wrong reading this series! This installment sort of brings all the ends together and it is perfect! I cannot rave enough about Liz Crowe too. She is a superior writer and connects all the dots in every story. I have never left the Stewart Realty series feeling like I don’t know what happened. Every time I finish a book I am amazed at the exceptional storyline Ms. Crowe has woven. Each one is as good as the last and maybe even better! Ignore them at your peril! Read them for your pleasure!!,
My dear readers- You cannot go wrong reading this series! This installment sort of brings all the ends together and it is perfect! I cannot rave enough about Liz Crowe too. She is a superior writer and connects all the dots in every story. I have never left the Stewart Realty series feeling like I don’t know what happened. Every time I finish a book I am amazed at the exceptional storyline Ms. Crowe has woven. Each one is as good as the last and maybe even better! Ignore them at your peril! Read them for your pleasure!!,
November 16, 2012
My name is Alyssa and I’m a Liz Crowe addict. Escalation Clause was my latest fix and was, one of my most highly anticipated book releases for November. I absolutely could not wait to get my hands on this book! After reading Essence of Time (my favorite read of 2012, BTW), I desperately needed this book. I’ve NEVER had such a visceral reaction to a plot line and I needed closure, I needed understanding & most importantly, I needed to grieve. I’m not going to go into plot or give you a summary of the book to entice, because it honestly doesn’t need that. You only need to know one thing - you must read this series.
Jack & Sara - Such an amazing, strong & powerful couple. My heart wept for them as I watched them grieve and grow further apart. But they are resilient, their love is strong and, as we well know, they fight hard and they chose to fight for their relationship. I’ve said it before, but it’s worth repeating - Sara is fierce! The loss of her brother was devastating to her, but through that loss she realized exactly how much of her life she let Blake live for her. She was forced to deal, and with that, came new strength and acceptance of her worth as a woman, a wife & a mother. She now refuses to accept anything less than what she, or her family, deserves - even from Jack. My favorite scene from this entire book involves these two, a trip to GA (What!! Jack, was in my home state!) and ice - no need to say anymore ;)
Brandis, Maureen & Rafe - Liz did it to me again! I just need to invest in a case of tissue when there is a Liz book on my tablet. We’ve known Maureen & Brandis’ ending for a little while now, but since they have always been in the background as secondary characters, the loss was not truly realized until this book. The main reason why I loved this book so much was because of these characters. The love and bond that Brandis & Maureen had, was extraordinarily beautiful and, I think, very important to know so that we can understand just how much she lost when he died. Even though I knew the outcome, I still fell in love with him, I had no choice. His death was gut-wrenching to read and completely shredded me. How do you move on from that? Simple, time and Rafe. I loved Maureen’s no holds barred kick ass attitude with the vulnerable side, that was scared to open up and love again after losing Brandis. The misgivings, guilt & fear that she had, about starting another relationship, were authentic, realistic and very believable. In taking the relationship slow, I was able to fall in love with Rafe right along with her. She deserved all the happiness she received.
Lila & Rob - As expected, their relationship was very tough and, at times, I didn’t know if they were going to make it. The extreme amount of grief, sadness & guilt, over the loss of someone so important to them, was a powerful thing. I thought it would be the straw that broke their back - but I was wrong. They persevered and came out the other side so much stronger for having made it through.
As a whole, Escalation Clause was amazing. I sat down to read and didn’t get back up until I was done. It grabbed, consumed and owned me. I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough, but I wanted to slow down getting to the end. My only complaints are that it felt a little rushed at the end with Maureen & Rafe, and while I loved all the characters, I wish that the main characters were more clearly defined. Since they all played a major role, I became invested and wanted to go deeper into the issues that each couple faced, but I couldn’t. With that being said, I still loved the book and this series will continue to remain one of my favorites and one I recommend to everyone!
ARC provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review
Find this review and more at Hesperia Loves Books
Jack & Sara - Such an amazing, strong & powerful couple. My heart wept for them as I watched them grieve and grow further apart. But they are resilient, their love is strong and, as we well know, they fight hard and they chose to fight for their relationship. I’ve said it before, but it’s worth repeating - Sara is fierce! The loss of her brother was devastating to her, but through that loss she realized exactly how much of her life she let Blake live for her. She was forced to deal, and with that, came new strength and acceptance of her worth as a woman, a wife & a mother. She now refuses to accept anything less than what she, or her family, deserves - even from Jack. My favorite scene from this entire book involves these two, a trip to GA (What!! Jack, was in my home state!) and ice - no need to say anymore ;)
Brandis, Maureen & Rafe - Liz did it to me again! I just need to invest in a case of tissue when there is a Liz book on my tablet. We’ve known Maureen & Brandis’ ending for a little while now, but since they have always been in the background as secondary characters, the loss was not truly realized until this book. The main reason why I loved this book so much was because of these characters. The love and bond that Brandis & Maureen had, was extraordinarily beautiful and, I think, very important to know so that we can understand just how much she lost when he died. Even though I knew the outcome, I still fell in love with him, I had no choice. His death was gut-wrenching to read and completely shredded me. How do you move on from that? Simple, time and Rafe. I loved Maureen’s no holds barred kick ass attitude with the vulnerable side, that was scared to open up and love again after losing Brandis. The misgivings, guilt & fear that she had, about starting another relationship, were authentic, realistic and very believable. In taking the relationship slow, I was able to fall in love with Rafe right along with her. She deserved all the happiness she received.
Lila & Rob - As expected, their relationship was very tough and, at times, I didn’t know if they were going to make it. The extreme amount of grief, sadness & guilt, over the loss of someone so important to them, was a powerful thing. I thought it would be the straw that broke their back - but I was wrong. They persevered and came out the other side so much stronger for having made it through.
As a whole, Escalation Clause was amazing. I sat down to read and didn’t get back up until I was done. It grabbed, consumed and owned me. I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough, but I wanted to slow down getting to the end. My only complaints are that it felt a little rushed at the end with Maureen & Rafe, and while I loved all the characters, I wish that the main characters were more clearly defined. Since they all played a major role, I became invested and wanted to go deeper into the issues that each couple faced, but I couldn’t. With that being said, I still loved the book and this series will continue to remain one of my favorites and one I recommend to everyone!
ARC provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review
Find this review and more at Hesperia Loves Books
November 24, 2012
Originally posted in Breath of Life Reviews
If I wasn't so certain that author Liz Crowe was planning more books in this series, I'd be mourning the loss of all these characters. I feel that I have gone on a deeply reflective, emotional and mentally draining journey with dysfunctional strangers who became dysfunctional friends. I am amazed though not truly surprised that Liz Crowe has managed to keep each book in the Stewart Realty series fresh and unique while not completely forgetting previous characters or story lines.
The love, tears and drama continues with Escalation Clause, the 6th book in Liz Crowe's Stewart Realty series. Picking up right in the middle of a family tragedy, Escalation Clause doesn't waste time evoking a powerful response from the reader. The shock, grief, confusion and the overwhelming sense of "Where do we go from here?"permeate the first few pages and grab the readers' attention and emotions immediately.
Still remaining as loyal to the "Romance for Real Life" sub genre as its predecessors, Escalation Clause not only continues with old characters like Jack, Sara, Suzanne, Rob, and Craig but also brings into the spotlight previously minor characters and introduces some new ones as well such as Jack's sister Maureen.
Liz Crowe's characters are so realistic and so worn down by life that they resonate with readers. Because Escalation Clause and the rest of the Stewart Realty series' target audience are adults, they can well relate to all the grief, hardships and small pockets of happiness that real life puts them through.
Escalation Clause may be a new beginning for some characters but for older couples Jack and Sara and Rob and Lila, it's another chapter in their struggle to keep their relationships strong and as healthy as possible. Fans of Jack and Sara will not be disappointed with Escalation Clause, they get plenty of page time.
Jack's sister Maureen is further explored as well. From the first time Jack appeared in Floor Time, he sparked curiosity about his sister and her life. It was Jack's close relationship with her when he avoided solid relationships with women for so long that built up interest in Maureen. She isn't boring that's for sure, and it will be interesting to see her begin to heal her life and begin the uphill struggle to find happiness.
While most book series' are losing steam well before the sixth book (if they even make it to book 6), The Stewart Realty series charges forward with Escalation Clause, another realistic, moving story of love, passion, loss and having the courage to fight for happiness among the pitfalls of life. It is definitely as strong and addictive as its predecessors.
If I wasn't so certain that author Liz Crowe was planning more books in this series, I'd be mourning the loss of all these characters. I feel that I have gone on a deeply reflective, emotional and mentally draining journey with dysfunctional strangers who became dysfunctional friends. I am amazed though not truly surprised that Liz Crowe has managed to keep each book in the Stewart Realty series fresh and unique while not completely forgetting previous characters or story lines.
The love, tears and drama continues with Escalation Clause, the 6th book in Liz Crowe's Stewart Realty series. Picking up right in the middle of a family tragedy, Escalation Clause doesn't waste time evoking a powerful response from the reader. The shock, grief, confusion and the overwhelming sense of "Where do we go from here?"permeate the first few pages and grab the readers' attention and emotions immediately.
Still remaining as loyal to the "Romance for Real Life" sub genre as its predecessors, Escalation Clause not only continues with old characters like Jack, Sara, Suzanne, Rob, and Craig but also brings into the spotlight previously minor characters and introduces some new ones as well such as Jack's sister Maureen.
Liz Crowe's characters are so realistic and so worn down by life that they resonate with readers. Because Escalation Clause and the rest of the Stewart Realty series' target audience are adults, they can well relate to all the grief, hardships and small pockets of happiness that real life puts them through.
Escalation Clause may be a new beginning for some characters but for older couples Jack and Sara and Rob and Lila, it's another chapter in their struggle to keep their relationships strong and as healthy as possible. Fans of Jack and Sara will not be disappointed with Escalation Clause, they get plenty of page time.
Jack's sister Maureen is further explored as well. From the first time Jack appeared in Floor Time, he sparked curiosity about his sister and her life. It was Jack's close relationship with her when he avoided solid relationships with women for so long that built up interest in Maureen. She isn't boring that's for sure, and it will be interesting to see her begin to heal her life and begin the uphill struggle to find happiness.
While most book series' are losing steam well before the sixth book (if they even make it to book 6), The Stewart Realty series charges forward with Escalation Clause, another realistic, moving story of love, passion, loss and having the courage to fight for happiness among the pitfalls of life. It is definitely as strong and addictive as its predecessors.
September 22, 2015
Revisiting our favorite group of dysfunctional friends and lovers, we are transported both to the past, when Jack Gordon’s sister Maureen (Mo) fell in love with Brandis Taylor, and then to the present, where every one of them has been affected by the death of Blake Thornton. Blake’s sister Sara is struggling with her grief, putting a giant barrier between her and Jack, one they fought for years to overcome. Neither are certain that their already tenuous relationship can endure. Meanwhile, Blake’s lovers Rob and Lila also wonder if they can survive the death of their third, the part of them that will forever be gone. While Mo is no stranger to heartache, losing her husband Brandis years before in a horrible accident, she gets a second chance at love when her kids’ soccer coach Rafe decides to pursue her. Between the daily dramas plaguing these couples as well as the tumultuous pasts they all have had to overcome, we learn that there’s a fine line between happiness and misery in Ann Arbor.
As an addict of the Stewart Realty series, Escalation Clause was a fitting addition to the emotional roller coaster that is rife within Ms. Crowe’s series. Her unique ability to incite reader’s disbelief and rage as well as more than a few lusty thoughts, is both unique and a little unsettling. I enjoyed hearing the story of Mo and Brandis, they were very briefly mentioned in previous books but Escalation Clause really showed those two characters off brilliantly. My stomach continued to clinch and do icky things as I read about the unfolding drama between Jack and Sara. I feel so damn attached to these two characters that it’s tough to read this book without assuming the worst outcome possible. As for the sex, we have some seriously emotionally raw encounters, a bit of vanilla and a sprinkle of BDSM. Though the sex was extremely sensual, raw and hot, it definitely took a back seat to the story line, which is how it should be when you’re reading something this passionate yet frustrating. I have recommended every book in this series to many people and will do so with Escalation Clause, with the caveat that you commit yourself to the previous five books in the Stewart Realty series first.
Original review for JERR at http://www.justeroticromancereviews.c...
As an addict of the Stewart Realty series, Escalation Clause was a fitting addition to the emotional roller coaster that is rife within Ms. Crowe’s series. Her unique ability to incite reader’s disbelief and rage as well as more than a few lusty thoughts, is both unique and a little unsettling. I enjoyed hearing the story of Mo and Brandis, they were very briefly mentioned in previous books but Escalation Clause really showed those two characters off brilliantly. My stomach continued to clinch and do icky things as I read about the unfolding drama between Jack and Sara. I feel so damn attached to these two characters that it’s tough to read this book without assuming the worst outcome possible. As for the sex, we have some seriously emotionally raw encounters, a bit of vanilla and a sprinkle of BDSM. Though the sex was extremely sensual, raw and hot, it definitely took a back seat to the story line, which is how it should be when you’re reading something this passionate yet frustrating. I have recommended every book in this series to many people and will do so with Escalation Clause, with the caveat that you commit yourself to the previous five books in the Stewart Realty series first.
Original review for JERR at http://www.justeroticromancereviews.c...
March 6, 2014
Liz demanded that I read this book, since I read books 1-4 in the series and then jumped to book 9. It was absolutely fabulous! FABULOUS!
As with the other books in the series, this is truly an ensemble story. We interact with many different characters from the series, but this is really Maureen and Rafe's story. Maureen had lost the man she considered the love of her life in a horrible accident and has spent many years alone, raising her children. Sure, she was surrounded by her family and friends, but she never dated or even had the inkling to, until her kids hot, Latin soccer coach came along.
Rafe had a bit of an uphill battle with Maureen. He felt a connection with her that he wanted to fully explore, but Maureen threw up every road block possible (he's her kids coach, he's younger, she just couldn't....). But Rafe was a man determined and wasn't going to let Maureen sidetrack what he thought they would have together. He struggled, a lot, and spent many month nursing a bruised ego and a somewhat mangled heart, but he stood his ground and waited for Maureen to catch up with him.
Maureen, being Jack's sister, had that Gordon stubbornness. She was always willing to lend a hand or advice to one of her friends or her brother, but she never really took a look at what she was doing to herself and to Rafe. And just like Jack, it sometimes takes extremes for her to remove her head from the tail end of her body before she realizes what's right in front of her. God love the Gordon's but are they ever an exhaustive group!
What I loved most was watching the second generation, Brandis and Gabe. There relationship was explosive even when they were babies and it was fun to see how, even then, they had their parents on their toes.
An absolute pleasure and one I'm glad I was tasked to read. Well done, Liz. Well done.
As with the other books in the series, this is truly an ensemble story. We interact with many different characters from the series, but this is really Maureen and Rafe's story. Maureen had lost the man she considered the love of her life in a horrible accident and has spent many years alone, raising her children. Sure, she was surrounded by her family and friends, but she never dated or even had the inkling to, until her kids hot, Latin soccer coach came along.
Rafe had a bit of an uphill battle with Maureen. He felt a connection with her that he wanted to fully explore, but Maureen threw up every road block possible (he's her kids coach, he's younger, she just couldn't....). But Rafe was a man determined and wasn't going to let Maureen sidetrack what he thought they would have together. He struggled, a lot, and spent many month nursing a bruised ego and a somewhat mangled heart, but he stood his ground and waited for Maureen to catch up with him.
Maureen, being Jack's sister, had that Gordon stubbornness. She was always willing to lend a hand or advice to one of her friends or her brother, but she never really took a look at what she was doing to herself and to Rafe. And just like Jack, it sometimes takes extremes for her to remove her head from the tail end of her body before she realizes what's right in front of her. God love the Gordon's but are they ever an exhaustive group!
What I loved most was watching the second generation, Brandis and Gabe. There relationship was explosive even when they were babies and it was fun to see how, even then, they had their parents on their toes.
An absolute pleasure and one I'm glad I was tasked to read. Well done, Liz. Well done.
November 6, 2012
Article first published as eBook Review: Escalation Clause by Liz Crowe on Blogcritics.
Escalation Clause is the sixth book in the Stewart Realty series, and if you haven't read the first five you won't have a clue what's going on, so please read those before you attempt this one.
This novel by Liz Crowe continues the story of the characters we've come to know and love, focussing particularly on Jack Gordon's sister, Maureen. Having lost her husband, she's been bringing up her children alone and hasn't been with another man, and didn't want to, until she met her daughter's sexy soccer coach. Rafe is super hot, and feels the same way about her. The trouble is, he's younger than her, and she's not quite sure if she's ready to move on with her life.
Other parts of the book deal with Rob Freitag and Lila Warren, and Jack and Sara Gordon. All of the characters have problems and are having to deal with various tragedies. But the question is, will they pull together and see things through, or allow circumstances to tear them apart?
This is another spectacular novel from Liz Crowe. Her characters certainly do not have easy lives, but that's the whole point - her books are realistic. They could be someone you know, or even you. For this reason, the book is engaging and easy to read, though at times you'll probably find yourself shouting at the characters out of frustration.
Overall, this is a well-written, emotional rollercoaster of a read. If you've read books one to five, definitely don't miss this one.
Escalation Clause is the sixth book in the Stewart Realty series, and if you haven't read the first five you won't have a clue what's going on, so please read those before you attempt this one.
This novel by Liz Crowe continues the story of the characters we've come to know and love, focussing particularly on Jack Gordon's sister, Maureen. Having lost her husband, she's been bringing up her children alone and hasn't been with another man, and didn't want to, until she met her daughter's sexy soccer coach. Rafe is super hot, and feels the same way about her. The trouble is, he's younger than her, and she's not quite sure if she's ready to move on with her life.
Other parts of the book deal with Rob Freitag and Lila Warren, and Jack and Sara Gordon. All of the characters have problems and are having to deal with various tragedies. But the question is, will they pull together and see things through, or allow circumstances to tear them apart?
This is another spectacular novel from Liz Crowe. Her characters certainly do not have easy lives, but that's the whole point - her books are realistic. They could be someone you know, or even you. For this reason, the book is engaging and easy to read, though at times you'll probably find yourself shouting at the characters out of frustration.
Overall, this is a well-written, emotional rollercoaster of a read. If you've read books one to five, definitely don't miss this one.
March 23, 2014
This book follows the Ann Arbor gang through a very difficult time. It is hard to live through the grieving with them; it almost brought me to tears at times. I have to say, Liz Crowe is the queen of drama and boy is this book full of it.
The book is from multiple points of view, which I LOVE. I believe all the major characters have a turn and one segment is more compelling then the next. These characters come to life through Liz Crowe’s writing and as much as they frustrate me with their ridiculous stubbornness, I can’t help but love them as well.
“Now we move forward, right? Different, equal, with a better understanding of what we need. No more fronting, not for each other.”
This book takes place over the span of a few years and it is enjoyable watching them grow. Jack and his group of friends face aging in some humorous ways and it’s good to see that these characters are no different than real people dealing with life’s changes.
“Here’s to erections lasting longer than four hours, my friends, no lie.”
As with most relationships, problems come and go and this is the case once again between Jack and Sara, but they are not alone. Love and trouble seem to go hand in hand and Liz Crowe keeps it real with her characters, they all face their share of problems. The ending of this book was a surprise but also a “duh I should have seen that coming”, it was fantastic. This book is full of the emotions of life, sorrow, joy and frustration but it also has what Liz Crowe is also good at, hot sex! I give this book 4.5 stars and 4 hands down the pants.
The book is from multiple points of view, which I LOVE. I believe all the major characters have a turn and one segment is more compelling then the next. These characters come to life through Liz Crowe’s writing and as much as they frustrate me with their ridiculous stubbornness, I can’t help but love them as well.
“Now we move forward, right? Different, equal, with a better understanding of what we need. No more fronting, not for each other.”
This book takes place over the span of a few years and it is enjoyable watching them grow. Jack and his group of friends face aging in some humorous ways and it’s good to see that these characters are no different than real people dealing with life’s changes.
“Here’s to erections lasting longer than four hours, my friends, no lie.”
As with most relationships, problems come and go and this is the case once again between Jack and Sara, but they are not alone. Love and trouble seem to go hand in hand and Liz Crowe keeps it real with her characters, they all face their share of problems. The ending of this book was a surprise but also a “duh I should have seen that coming”, it was fantastic. This book is full of the emotions of life, sorrow, joy and frustration but it also has what Liz Crowe is also good at, hot sex! I give this book 4.5 stars and 4 hands down the pants.
April 25, 2014
With Liz Crowe’s series, you are taken on a journey. This journey is not unicorns and flowers and rainbows with pots of gold at the end. No, it’s like the most wicked, thrilling, death-defying roller coaster ride of your life! The author of the series states, “I write books I like to read.” Well, I like to read her’s too only they should come with a warning! Something like, “You will get sucked in and you lose spans of time from your life.” Why? Because like a Lay’s potato chip, it’s impossible to just read one. I gobble up these novels and then spend a good long time afterward hung over from them.
Escalation Claus (Book 6) is the story of Maureen and her history with her first sweetheart Brandis and then her second love Rafe.
Read Full Review
Escalation Claus (Book 6) is the story of Maureen and her history with her first sweetheart Brandis and then her second love Rafe.
Read Full Review
July 23, 2013
I have to admit that the Floor Time books started out as a quick read/guilty pleasure but now the entire Stewart Realty ever growing cast of people have become an obsession! I blame Liz Crowe's freakishly talented way of weaving lives together, alternating POVs and ripping at the heart of so many diverse topics is something I haven't experienced before.
I'm not sure a better series exists. I'm not sure if anyone recognizes this series, or it's author, for the sheer genius that it is either. Maybe it hasn't hit the mainstream because of the diversity of the storyline or the expense or whatever...but I for one and damn glad I've found it and it has been amazing reading every word of every book.
Now... on to the next one, Mutual Release!
I'm not sure a better series exists. I'm not sure if anyone recognizes this series, or it's author, for the sheer genius that it is either. Maybe it hasn't hit the mainstream because of the diversity of the storyline or the expense or whatever...but I for one and damn glad I've found it and it has been amazing reading every word of every book.
Now... on to the next one, Mutual Release!
July 31, 2014
Another amazing Stewart Realty installment by Liz Crowe.
This story is a bit of everything. It features Jack's sister Maureen, Sara and Blake's parents and we get to catch up with everyone else as well. It is set in the 2 years between the last chapter and the Epilogue from Essence of Time.
I love this series as the characters are so real that you experience everything with them, their love, happiness and pain, not to mention their frustration.
The epilogue leaves us when the children are all starting to grow up and start their own journey into the world. I am looking forward to reading more of this series as I feel like I am part of their community and want to see how the kids handle their life.
This story is a bit of everything. It features Jack's sister Maureen, Sara and Blake's parents and we get to catch up with everyone else as well. It is set in the 2 years between the last chapter and the Epilogue from Essence of Time.
I love this series as the characters are so real that you experience everything with them, their love, happiness and pain, not to mention their frustration.
The epilogue leaves us when the children are all starting to grow up and start their own journey into the world. I am looking forward to reading more of this series as I feel like I am part of their community and want to see how the kids handle their life.
November 5, 2012
This book is fantastic. I really didn't think that I could fall any deeper in love with these characters but low and behold that's what ended up happening. You have to start at the beginning with this series so if you haven't read @ least books 1-4 hold off on this one until you do. They're all captivating because of the real life element, and of course the off the charts sexiness. I can't wait for the next volume in this family anthology.
November 23, 2012
My favorite of the series. Throughout the series, there are many challenges that attempt to ruin the relationships you see developing, but this book showed how the characters fought for their love and what was most important. I was very happy with where the storylines lead to in this book and I understand there are 2 more books coming, looking at their children growing up. I can't wait for more from these characters...I feel like I've known them their whole lives!
July 29, 2015
In the true spirit of The Stewart Realty Series, this story falls right into place with all the others. True to life family drama, happiness, and scenes that tickle the funny bone. This story, as with the others in the series, is a story that will make the reader laugh, cry, and anger at times. Just like a real family, it's a roller coaster ride from start to finish. This reader would highly recommend.
January 29, 2017
Nice ending for a great series.
I've come along through six novels of the same characters and I'm very glad I did. It was really awesome to grow with the core characters and see them through thick and thin. To overcome some pretty steep obstacles and come out on the other other side battered, bruised and war torn but still limping along to all happy endings in the end. Absolutely recommend this series.
I've come along through six novels of the same characters and I'm very glad I did. It was really awesome to grow with the core characters and see them through thick and thin. To overcome some pretty steep obstacles and come out on the other other side battered, bruised and war torn but still limping along to all happy endings in the end. Absolutely recommend this series.
November 8, 2012
This book was amazing… This is the sixth book in the Stewart Realty Series and I just have to say that they keep getting better…. The characters are all very well written.. You will laugh, cry and scream at them every once in a while.. This book pulled at my heartstrings and I just couldn’t get enough.. After this sixth book I consider them family ;-) I didn’t want it to finish….
February 7, 2013
Visit RomFan Reviews: Review: Escalation Clause (Stewart Realty Book 6) Author: Liz Crowe for full review
Ahhhhh Book 6 in Liz Crowe’s Stewart Realty Series. Escalation Clause to me is a book about healing and there is a lot of healing going on throughout it.
Ahhhhh Book 6 in Liz Crowe’s Stewart Realty Series. Escalation Clause to me is a book about healing and there is a lot of healing going on throughout it.
July 3, 2014
Book 6 in the series is, so far, my favorite. It covers several story lines, including backstory of siblings Blake & Sara, then jumps back in to Jack & Sara (YES! I'd been missing them!) Rob & Lila, and a new love interest for Jack's sister, Maureen. Really good. Why is Liz Crowe not famous yet?
Rated R.
Read these books in order.
Rated R.
Read these books in order.
August 7, 2013
This is not a genre that I usually read but the author is a friend of mine. I really liked it! I am normally really shy about reading books that feature a lot of sex but I enjoyed this book a lot (and not just because the author is my friend!!!) :)
February 19, 2014
Loved Maureen's backstory with Brandis and the history on Jack as a teen. Cried my eyes out so much in this book. God Liz Crowe can make you laugh out loud and weep! So happy that Maureen finally got her HEA with Rafe. On to Mutual Release the next in the series!
October 10, 2013
I loved reading the backstories for secondary characters, including Sara's parents. It was also fun to see into the future. As with the other books in the series, Liz really let us read about the emotions that the characters experienced. Sad that I only have two more books in this series to go!
November 6, 2012
She done it again. Absolutely loved this book. The characters just get better and better. Totally unputdownable! Cannot wait for the next one!
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