What do you think?
Rate this book
Love of My Life #2
Champagne Toast
Note: Although these books are part of a series, they do not need to be read in order.
Kate Armour and Evan Maxwell fell hard and fast for each other while attending college. Their once passionate and loving relationship ended when old scars eventually tore them apart. Two years after their breakup, they're each struggling to piece together what went wrong in an attempt to move forward.
Kate, a no-nonsense bartender, must face her past while attempting to focus on her future.
Evan is stifled by his bitter heart, which threatens each and every relationship he attempts after walking away from Kate.
Will life offer them a second chance at love or are old patterns simply too hard to break?
Kate Armour and Evan Maxwell fell hard and fast for each other while attending college. Their once passionate and loving relationship ended when old scars eventually tore them apart. Two years after their breakup, they're each struggling to piece together what went wrong in an attempt to move forward.
Kate, a no-nonsense bartender, must face her past while attempting to focus on her future.
Evan is stifled by his bitter heart, which threatens each and every relationship he attempts after walking away from Kate.
Will life offer them a second chance at love or are old patterns simply too hard to break?
326 pages, Paperback
First published January 7, 2013
89 people are currently reading
3350 people want to read
About the author
Melissa Brown
30 books1,035 followersI have always been fascinated with books----ever since I was a little girl sitting in front of my record player, following along with my huge 12x12 storybooks.
I'm a pop culture maniac, Potterhead and Disney fanatic. I write new adult romance, contemporary romance and romantic suspense.
Instagram @melbrownie77
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/MelissaBrown...
I'm a pop culture maniac, Potterhead and Disney fanatic. I write new adult romance, contemporary romance and romantic suspense.
Instagram @melbrownie77
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/MelissaBrown...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 203 reviews
May 2, 2019
5/2/2019 Okay I need to clarify something, he didn't really cheat per se. He had sex with other women after he walked away from her and while they were apart. And even a serious relationship. There is a partial sex scene with another woman in the novel too. So most people don't consider that cheating and I want to make sure I portray it correctly. I still hate the hero. I read the book again and cried and ranted and I hate myself for doing that. Actually I put myself in time out and I need to go to my corner. Bad Debbie.
9/12/207 Unpopular opinion Alert And Rant. I am so sick of NA reads. They supposedly love someone yet they can't keep their di@ks in their pants. This is One of my biggest pet peeves ever But all the reviewers on this book never mention it and give it 5 stars and call it an epic romance and how 'swoon worthy' and 'romantic' and 'wonderful' he is and I am like wtf. A romantic swoon worthy hero would have talked it out and kept his pants zipped like the h did! Just yuk. I hate these type of stories and i wish i never read it. I wonder if all those five star reviewers and swooners would feel this way if this happened to them or maybe one of their sisters? Believe me there is no such thing as a true HEA after something like this unfortunately. You may get the man but memories are forever painful and trust is just another five letter word that you find in Webster's Dictionary or crossword puzzles. deep breaths. Sorry rant is over. This book just killed me. I wish I had been warned. Okay bitter party of one, your table awaits you.
9/12/207 Unpopular opinion Alert And Rant. I am so sick of NA reads. They supposedly love someone yet they can't keep their di@ks in their pants. This is One of my biggest pet peeves ever But all the reviewers on this book never mention it and give it 5 stars and call it an epic romance and how 'swoon worthy' and 'romantic' and 'wonderful' he is and I am like wtf. A romantic swoon worthy hero would have talked it out and kept his pants zipped like the h did! Just yuk. I hate these type of stories and i wish i never read it. I wonder if all those five star reviewers and swooners would feel this way if this happened to them or maybe one of their sisters? Believe me there is no such thing as a true HEA after something like this unfortunately. You may get the man but memories are forever painful and trust is just another five letter word that you find in Webster's Dictionary or crossword puzzles. deep breaths. Sorry rant is over. This book just killed me. I wish I had been warned. Okay bitter party of one, your table awaits you.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 25, 2013
3 Angsty Stars
I know I'm in the minority but I didn't love this book. The plot was well fleshed out and captivating but, frankly, there was nothing particularly original about it. At times, I also struggled with the prose feeling somewhat forced and simplistic but that didn't hurt my overall enjoyment of the story. I really like the heroine and felt sympathetic toward her, but I didn't care much for the hero. I'll admit that his groveling was good, but by that point it was too little, too late. Overall, Champagne Toast made for a decent and VERY angsty read.
I know I'm in the minority but I didn't love this book. The plot was well fleshed out and captivating but, frankly, there was nothing particularly original about it. At times, I also struggled with the prose feeling somewhat forced and simplistic but that didn't hurt my overall enjoyment of the story. I really like the heroine and felt sympathetic toward her, but I didn't care much for the hero. I'll admit that his groveling was good, but by that point it was too little, too late. Overall, Champagne Toast made for a decent and VERY angsty read.
March 24, 2013
Melissa Brown is a new-to-me author who has given an intense, passionate, and emotional love story filled with angst. My emotions were all over the place reading Kate and Evan’s story and I loved every minute of it!
The writing is very good and flows smoothly. It's loaded with great dialogue and an added bonus is each chapter alternates between the H/h POV.
The hero is sexy as sin. The heroine is very lovable. The love scenes are scorching and intimate. The story pulls you in at the beginning and never lets up until you turn that last page. The emotions are palpable and the ending is very real with a HEA and an epilogue.
Kate Armour‘s background hasn’t offered her much in self confidence. Her biggest problem is not believing in herself and she feels unworthy of Evan. Evan Maxwell is a sexy and totally lovable hero. He’s honest, funny, supportive and loves his Kate. But there’s a trust issue involved that seals their fate.
Evan and Kate have two years of bliss before everything falls apart. The book begins after their breakup but takes the reader step by step back into their incredible past. Even knowing it was coming doesn’t prepare you for the heartache of their brokenness.
Kate and Evan's story will take you on a journey of sorrow and joy. You'll laugh, cry, become filled with anger, frustration and through the power of forgiveness witness a love evolve into all that it should be and more.
A big Thank You to Anne and Karen for the push to read this one!
The writing is very good and flows smoothly. It's loaded with great dialogue and an added bonus is each chapter alternates between the H/h POV.
The hero is sexy as sin. The heroine is very lovable. The love scenes are scorching and intimate. The story pulls you in at the beginning and never lets up until you turn that last page. The emotions are palpable and the ending is very real with a HEA and an epilogue.
Kate Armour‘s background hasn’t offered her much in self confidence. Her biggest problem is not believing in herself and she feels unworthy of Evan. Evan Maxwell is a sexy and totally lovable hero. He’s honest, funny, supportive and loves his Kate. But there’s a trust issue involved that seals their fate.
Evan and Kate have two years of bliss before everything falls apart. The book begins after their breakup but takes the reader step by step back into their incredible past. Even knowing it was coming doesn’t prepare you for the heartache of their brokenness.
Kate and Evan's story will take you on a journey of sorrow and joy. You'll laugh, cry, become filled with anger, frustration and through the power of forgiveness witness a love evolve into all that it should be and more.
A big Thank You to Anne and Karen for the push to read this one!
January 10, 2013
Cheers and a champagne toast to Melissa Brown, a new-to-me-author, who wrote an amazing and unforgettable story. Champagne Toast is a moving and heartfelt second chance at love story.
Kate and Evan’s book spans more than five years beginning while each is in college and meet while working at a local bar. Their attraction is immediate and the chemistry between these two is combustible. Often times the road to happily ever after becomes bumpy and filled with potholes along the way. In their situation, both Kate and Evan must reach out and find the power to heal past heartbreaks and learn the real meaning of trusting in one another. The alternate switch in POVs from Kate to Evan every other chapter gives additional meaning and depth to the twists and turns in their relationship.
The roller coaster ride of emotions is challenging with incredible highs to some pretty tough and heart wrenching lows. But for me, this is one of those special books that just keeps on giving long after you reach the ending. One of the most endearing draws to this story is the remarkable and playful conversations and interactions between Kate and Evan who share an engaging, exceptional, and genuine love for each other.
I absolutely loved the well-drawn characters, the smooth flow of the author’s writing style and, most certainly, the peek into the future for this couple in a perfect epilogue!
Kate and Evan’s book spans more than five years beginning while each is in college and meet while working at a local bar. Their attraction is immediate and the chemistry between these two is combustible. Often times the road to happily ever after becomes bumpy and filled with potholes along the way. In their situation, both Kate and Evan must reach out and find the power to heal past heartbreaks and learn the real meaning of trusting in one another. The alternate switch in POVs from Kate to Evan every other chapter gives additional meaning and depth to the twists and turns in their relationship.
The roller coaster ride of emotions is challenging with incredible highs to some pretty tough and heart wrenching lows. But for me, this is one of those special books that just keeps on giving long after you reach the ending. One of the most endearing draws to this story is the remarkable and playful conversations and interactions between Kate and Evan who share an engaging, exceptional, and genuine love for each other.
I absolutely loved the well-drawn characters, the smooth flow of the author’s writing style and, most certainly, the peek into the future for this couple in a perfect epilogue!
January 25, 2013
LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVED.
love loved.
^^I think I got enough loves in there!
What a perfect story for Evan! I fell for him in Bouquet Toss and I was so excited he was getting his own story, but I had no idea it would be anything like this!
I loved Kate and Evan together, their relationship was a mix of sweet, hot, and sassy (on Kate's part) and all came together for one hell of an adventure. Definitely not a perfect relationship by any means and there will be times you yell at both of them, but they have a perfect love for each other.
WARNING YOU NOW LADIES: You will swoon. And not just swoon...but SAAAWOON! I actually sighed out loud at one part because I love Evan so much and my husband looked like he was going to go find the guy that gave me that dopey look on my face.
If you haven't read Bouquet Toss, I suggest you do so AND THEN BUY AND READ THIS BOOK!
love loved.
^^I think I got enough loves in there!
What a perfect story for Evan! I fell for him in Bouquet Toss and I was so excited he was getting his own story, but I had no idea it would be anything like this!
I loved Kate and Evan together, their relationship was a mix of sweet, hot, and sassy (on Kate's part) and all came together for one hell of an adventure. Definitely not a perfect relationship by any means and there will be times you yell at both of them, but they have a perfect love for each other.
WARNING YOU NOW LADIES: You will swoon. And not just swoon...but SAAAWOON! I actually sighed out loud at one part because I love Evan so much and my husband looked like he was going to go find the guy that gave me that dopey look on my face.
If you haven't read Bouquet Toss, I suggest you do so AND THEN BUY AND READ THIS BOOK!
March 14, 2013
For the past two years, I've been totally absorbed in the melodramatic, angst-ridden world of digital romance created (mostly) by indie authors. Their stories are usually written in 1st person POV and sometimes - as is the case here - in dual 1st person POV. IMO this is by far the best POV to tell a story from because the reader is privy to what is going on in the minds of both hero and heroine. It effectively does away with the "WTF moments" and thus brings a new vulnerability to the hero that, until now, was a rarity in romance novels. Male emotion - raw, honest and straight from his heart - can be the difference between a good book boyfriend and an Oh.My.God.I.LOVE.HIM! great book boyfriend...
...which brings us to this story and Evan Maxwell.
I only have one negative thing to say about this book so I'll say it now and get it over with. The packaging sucks. As a big fan of new adult romance, I am familiar with how the genre is presented. These are digital books so readers are not walking into Barnes & Noble and picking up this book or that, mulling over the back blurbs, etc., we are checking out places like Amazon where there are already hundreds of books listed under this relatively new genre. With the majority of authors being unknown at this point, the "look" of the book - the appeal of title and bookcover - has the big job of reeling the buyer in. And once we're in, well...we are all pretty much "1-click crazy". Think "new adult" romance and covers/titles like these appeal:
Champagne Toast is every bit as good as these 3 books and fits the genre perfectly, yet the cover and title scream Nora Roberts' Bridal Quartet. Not even what a new adult reader is looking for.
Fortunately for me, I came across author Molly McAdams' review of CT and saw this:
WARNING YOU NOW LADIES: You will swoon. And not just swoon...but SAAAWOON! I actually sighed out loud at one part because I love Evan so much and my husband looked like he was going to go find the guy that gave me that dopey look on my face.
Molly's idea of a swoon-worthy hero is definitely my own (hello Team Brandon) and my number one "must have" in a book, so I bought it. Soooo damn glad I did!
Kate Armour is a free-spirited, part-time college student working at a local bar to support herself. She is beautiful, flirtatious, passionate about photography and a serial cheater in relationships...if that's what you would call the superfluous hookups she repeatedly engaged in. Sex and arm candy were the staples and love wasn't even a consideration. Yet coming from a home seriously deficient in affection, it is what Kate thought she wanted from a man.
Until the day Evan Maxwell walked into the bar.
Evan was in his 3rd year at the local University, working towards a degree in marketing. He had solid goals planned for his future and no doubt that he wouldn't meet them. He epitomized "tall, dark & handsome" as though the term was created just for him; and women were always a big part of his life...though he had never been in love.
Until the day he met Kate Armour.
The attraction between Kate & Evan was instant and mutual. However, Kate had a boyfriend, so the first few weeks of working together they were basically "flirting friends". Soon, however, lines started to blur as they became consumed by desire for each other.
He places the pads of his fingers on my cheek, brushing lightly before pushing my hair behind my ear and placing my long thick hair behind my shoulder. “What are you doing?” I whisper, my pulse racing so fast I feel like I might faint. “Swooning,” Evan smiles softly as he looks me in the eyes. My heart stops. “Oh,” I reply, swallowing hard, attempting to hide my emotions and failing miserably. He knows I want him as much as he wants me. “I want to kiss you, Kate. But, I don’t think I should . . . ” his voice trails as he explores my features with his eyes. “Why?” I ask, completely under his spell. Evan caresses my face gently with his fingers and then cups my chin with his hand. “Do you still have a boyfriend?” I nod with an apologetic glance. “It’s okay, I want you to,” I say, my words betraying me. “Not my style,” he says, shaking his head with a deep frown. He leans in and kisses me gently on the cheek. “Goodnight, Kate,” he says softly before walking into the back room. I hear him saying good-bye to Bree and Vince. Slowly, I slide down the bar until I’m seated on the floor, in a complete daze. Every bit of me is on fire, my skin, my hair, my bones. I didn’t know I was capable of swooning. But, Evan Maxwell has gotten under my skin in a way I never knew was possible. So, if Kate Armour swoons, this is how she does it.
Kate & Evan succumb to their desires that night and sleep together. The next day, Kate breaks up with her boyfriend and she and Evan are immediately a couple. For the most part their relationship is great...fun and comfortable and filled with love. As in any relationship, they have problems that they normally meet head-on and deal with; however, Kate's history of cheating coupled with Evan's quick temper and apparent lack of trust culminate in an explosive "it's-not-what-it-looks-like" scene that proves too difficult to overcome. So, after two wonderful years together, Kate & Evan part ways.
OMG their breakup nearly broke my heart! The author does an excellent job of showing rather than telling, and I truly felt like I knew this couple well...like I was actually living their relationship with them. Kate & Evan have a true, deep-seated "soul-mates" type of love that is so badly shaken I was afraid the damage that had been done was beyond repair. The dual POV works so well here as we get inside Evan's head as well as Kate's and understand that he is every bit as broken as she is, although he does try to move on.
Another Saturday night. Another evening surrounded by friends who are pushing me to move on. Patrick and I are meeting some other friends at a bar. Supposedly, there’s a girl he wants me to meet. Whatever. All I really want to do is show up at Molly’s, take a seat at the bar and watch Kate work. I want to watch her run her fingers through her hair and give the customers attitude. I want to watch her pour drinks and make smart-ass comments. I want to walk in that bar like nothing ever happened. But, I can’t. Walking to my dresser, I pull open the drawer and move the stacked clothes to the side. A small box sits in the drawer. It makes my heart race just looking at it. Opening the box, I see the promise ring that Kate threw back at me last spring. My brow furrows as I put the ring in my hand, like I do every few weeks when I can’t get her out of my head. Holding the ring between my fingers, I stare at the band knowing what this ring once represented. A life with Kate. A future that I let go of way too easily.
Champagne Toast is the emotional rollercoaster that we new adult fans crave. The perfect blend of love & happiness, promises & heartbreak, discovery & hope, and awesome, toe-curling sex. Best of all, it has a believable HEA. That's a must for me and I know for most of you as well. And Evan...mmmmmmmm! What can I say? The guy is book boyfriend perfection!!! Sure we all love the rockstars, the actors, the fighters...all the bad boys that just need to find that special someone to love them. But Evan isn't a bad boy at all (well...maybe in bed...mmmmmm). Yet he is so smokin' hot I dare you to read this book and not rank him right up there with the Kellans & Travis' of book boyfriend landia!
I can't say enough good about this book and really, the only reason I complained about the cover and title is because it diminishes the powerful story inside. Champagne Toast really needs more exposure so that others can enjoy this diamond in the rough. One thing is certain...Melissa Brown knows how to tell a powerful, emotional love story. I'm looking forward to reading more from her.
Evan Maxwell on display
...which brings us to this story and Evan Maxwell.
I only have one negative thing to say about this book so I'll say it now and get it over with. The packaging sucks. As a big fan of new adult romance, I am familiar with how the genre is presented. These are digital books so readers are not walking into Barnes & Noble and picking up this book or that, mulling over the back blurbs, etc., we are checking out places like Amazon where there are already hundreds of books listed under this relatively new genre. With the majority of authors being unknown at this point, the "look" of the book - the appeal of title and bookcover - has the big job of reeling the buyer in. And once we're in, well...we are all pretty much "1-click crazy". Think "new adult" romance and covers/titles like these appeal:
Champagne Toast is every bit as good as these 3 books and fits the genre perfectly, yet the cover and title scream Nora Roberts' Bridal Quartet. Not even what a new adult reader is looking for.
Fortunately for me, I came across author Molly McAdams' review of CT and saw this:
WARNING YOU NOW LADIES: You will swoon. And not just swoon...but SAAAWOON! I actually sighed out loud at one part because I love Evan so much and my husband looked like he was going to go find the guy that gave me that dopey look on my face.
Molly's idea of a swoon-worthy hero is definitely my own (hello Team Brandon) and my number one "must have" in a book, so I bought it. Soooo damn glad I did!
Kate Armour is a free-spirited, part-time college student working at a local bar to support herself. She is beautiful, flirtatious, passionate about photography and a serial cheater in relationships...if that's what you would call the superfluous hookups she repeatedly engaged in. Sex and arm candy were the staples and love wasn't even a consideration. Yet coming from a home seriously deficient in affection, it is what Kate thought she wanted from a man.
Until the day Evan Maxwell walked into the bar.
Evan was in his 3rd year at the local University, working towards a degree in marketing. He had solid goals planned for his future and no doubt that he wouldn't meet them. He epitomized "tall, dark & handsome" as though the term was created just for him; and women were always a big part of his life...though he had never been in love.
Until the day he met Kate Armour.
The attraction between Kate & Evan was instant and mutual. However, Kate had a boyfriend, so the first few weeks of working together they were basically "flirting friends". Soon, however, lines started to blur as they became consumed by desire for each other.
He places the pads of his fingers on my cheek, brushing lightly before pushing my hair behind my ear and placing my long thick hair behind my shoulder. “What are you doing?” I whisper, my pulse racing so fast I feel like I might faint. “Swooning,” Evan smiles softly as he looks me in the eyes. My heart stops. “Oh,” I reply, swallowing hard, attempting to hide my emotions and failing miserably. He knows I want him as much as he wants me. “I want to kiss you, Kate. But, I don’t think I should . . . ” his voice trails as he explores my features with his eyes. “Why?” I ask, completely under his spell. Evan caresses my face gently with his fingers and then cups my chin with his hand. “Do you still have a boyfriend?” I nod with an apologetic glance. “It’s okay, I want you to,” I say, my words betraying me. “Not my style,” he says, shaking his head with a deep frown. He leans in and kisses me gently on the cheek. “Goodnight, Kate,” he says softly before walking into the back room. I hear him saying good-bye to Bree and Vince. Slowly, I slide down the bar until I’m seated on the floor, in a complete daze. Every bit of me is on fire, my skin, my hair, my bones. I didn’t know I was capable of swooning. But, Evan Maxwell has gotten under my skin in a way I never knew was possible. So, if Kate Armour swoons, this is how she does it.
Kate & Evan succumb to their desires that night and sleep together. The next day, Kate breaks up with her boyfriend and she and Evan are immediately a couple. For the most part their relationship is great...fun and comfortable and filled with love. As in any relationship, they have problems that they normally meet head-on and deal with; however, Kate's history of cheating coupled with Evan's quick temper and apparent lack of trust culminate in an explosive "it's-not-what-it-looks-like" scene that proves too difficult to overcome. So, after two wonderful years together, Kate & Evan part ways.
OMG their breakup nearly broke my heart! The author does an excellent job of showing rather than telling, and I truly felt like I knew this couple well...like I was actually living their relationship with them. Kate & Evan have a true, deep-seated "soul-mates" type of love that is so badly shaken I was afraid the damage that had been done was beyond repair. The dual POV works so well here as we get inside Evan's head as well as Kate's and understand that he is every bit as broken as she is, although he does try to move on.
Another Saturday night. Another evening surrounded by friends who are pushing me to move on. Patrick and I are meeting some other friends at a bar. Supposedly, there’s a girl he wants me to meet. Whatever. All I really want to do is show up at Molly’s, take a seat at the bar and watch Kate work. I want to watch her run her fingers through her hair and give the customers attitude. I want to watch her pour drinks and make smart-ass comments. I want to walk in that bar like nothing ever happened. But, I can’t. Walking to my dresser, I pull open the drawer and move the stacked clothes to the side. A small box sits in the drawer. It makes my heart race just looking at it. Opening the box, I see the promise ring that Kate threw back at me last spring. My brow furrows as I put the ring in my hand, like I do every few weeks when I can’t get her out of my head. Holding the ring between my fingers, I stare at the band knowing what this ring once represented. A life with Kate. A future that I let go of way too easily.
Champagne Toast is the emotional rollercoaster that we new adult fans crave. The perfect blend of love & happiness, promises & heartbreak, discovery & hope, and awesome, toe-curling sex. Best of all, it has a believable HEA. That's a must for me and I know for most of you as well. And Evan...mmmmmmmm! What can I say? The guy is book boyfriend perfection!!! Sure we all love the rockstars, the actors, the fighters...all the bad boys that just need to find that special someone to love them. But Evan isn't a bad boy at all (well...maybe in bed...mmmmmm). Yet he is so smokin' hot I dare you to read this book and not rank him right up there with the Kellans & Travis' of book boyfriend landia!
I can't say enough good about this book and really, the only reason I complained about the cover and title is because it diminishes the powerful story inside. Champagne Toast really needs more exposure so that others can enjoy this diamond in the rough. One thing is certain...Melissa Brown knows how to tell a powerful, emotional love story. I'm looking forward to reading more from her.
Evan Maxwell on display
January 30, 2013
If you've ever read a book written by Melissa Brown you already know the writing will be great; but let me tell you, folks...the love story will be amazing. Kate and Evan are no exception.
Can love, I mean, true, all-consuming love, be enough? Kate and Evan are on their jorney together to find out in this twisty-turvy, emotional ride. Meeting in college and discovering how it feels to genuinely feel like kindred souls, these two have many obstacles to overcome; mostly, self doubt and intense insecurities. Now, it's up to this deeply in love couple to realize what they truly want and what they will ultimately throw away.
I devoured this second installment of Brown's "Love of My Life" series. I also adored seeing a few of the characters from the first book, Bouquet Toss, sprinkled in; even though in this series they're all "stand alones." The added personal perspectives of both Kate and Evan also provided an all-encompassing-voyeuristic-style point of view; equally quite enjoyable for the reader.
Campagne Toast is one of those reads with just the right amount of angst, romance, and true human feelings everyone can relate to. The writing was fantastic which made my page turning fast, even eager at times. Oh, and let's not forget the delicious love scenes that were written with just the perfect amount of intimacy- another wonderfully, nice touch.
Remarkable job, Ms. Brown, you sincerely deserve all of my 4.5 stars!!
Can love, I mean, true, all-consuming love, be enough? Kate and Evan are on their jorney together to find out in this twisty-turvy, emotional ride. Meeting in college and discovering how it feels to genuinely feel like kindred souls, these two have many obstacles to overcome; mostly, self doubt and intense insecurities. Now, it's up to this deeply in love couple to realize what they truly want and what they will ultimately throw away.
I devoured this second installment of Brown's "Love of My Life" series. I also adored seeing a few of the characters from the first book, Bouquet Toss, sprinkled in; even though in this series they're all "stand alones." The added personal perspectives of both Kate and Evan also provided an all-encompassing-voyeuristic-style point of view; equally quite enjoyable for the reader.
Campagne Toast is one of those reads with just the right amount of angst, romance, and true human feelings everyone can relate to. The writing was fantastic which made my page turning fast, even eager at times. Oh, and let's not forget the delicious love scenes that were written with just the perfect amount of intimacy- another wonderfully, nice touch.
Remarkable job, Ms. Brown, you sincerely deserve all of my 4.5 stars!!
February 4, 2016
Melissa Brown never disappoints.
Ever since I read "Wife Number Seven" two years ago, I have been following her work.
There is just something special about her writing.
If you haven't discovered this author yet, trust me and pick up any of her books.
You won't regret it.
Ever since I read "Wife Number Seven" two years ago, I have been following her work.
There is just something special about her writing.
If you haven't discovered this author yet, trust me and pick up any of her books.
You won't regret it.
September 28, 2014
“Thats the thing about love- it’s full of possibilities. It can lead you down so many different paths.”
Champagne Toast is Evan and Kate’s story. A story of love, loss, second chances, forgiveness, and redemption. A story of first loves, and only loves.
EVAN
KATE
Evan is a college student applying for a job at a local bar when he meets Kate. Evan is going to a prestigious university for marketing. Kate works at the bar and attends a different college part time for photography. Evan and Kate are flirty and hit it off right away. Kate is dating someone else at the time.
Ever since high school, Kate has been in one relationship after another. She gets restless, and moves on to another- not the best track record. Her dream is to be a photographer. Without her parents support, and being self sufficient by working full time at the bar, she doesn’t feel that she can pursue photography as a career.
Evan has a great support system, his parents and friends. When he meets Kate, he instantly knows she is special. Soon after, she and Evan get together and she breaks up with her boyfriend. Evan believes in Kate, always encouraging her to follow her dream.
They are both so in love with each other. Their relationship is sweet, easy. They have things in common, they support each other. As their lives take different directions, things change between them. Evan graduates college and gets a good job in a marketing firm downtown. Kate is still working at the bar, doing photography as just a hobby. Kate has never felt good enough for Evan. She always feels like he is going to move on, leave her behind. This causes her to push him away at times. A few incidents happen, Evan can’t trust Kate because of her past. They break up, breaking both of their hearts in two.
Two plus years later... both are still miserable. Evan has tried to move on, but he never stops thinking of Kate. Every girl he attempts to date doesn’t come close to how he felt about her. Kate doesn’t even bother. She is sick of moving from relationship to relationship when she is clearly not over Evan. Eventually, their paths cross. They both realize they still have feelings, but how can they be together? What is love without trust?
When I was getting ready to read this one, I had high exceptions, I really enjoyed Bouquet Toss, and was looking forward to reading Evan’s story. It did not disappoint! I enjoyed this more than Bouquet Toss. The writing was smooth, The story was beautiful. Perfect combination of love, passion, heartache, sweet and sexy. Champagne Toast is written from Evan and Kate’s pov.
The ending was perfect...
This is a book I would most definitely recommend for anyone looking to read a good love story!
Things that remind me of Evan and Kate’s love <3
Read and Enjoy!!!
Champagne Toast is Evan and Kate’s story. A story of love, loss, second chances, forgiveness, and redemption. A story of first loves, and only loves.
EVAN
KATE
Evan is a college student applying for a job at a local bar when he meets Kate. Evan is going to a prestigious university for marketing. Kate works at the bar and attends a different college part time for photography. Evan and Kate are flirty and hit it off right away. Kate is dating someone else at the time.
Ever since high school, Kate has been in one relationship after another. She gets restless, and moves on to another- not the best track record. Her dream is to be a photographer. Without her parents support, and being self sufficient by working full time at the bar, she doesn’t feel that she can pursue photography as a career.
Evan has a great support system, his parents and friends. When he meets Kate, he instantly knows she is special. Soon after, she and Evan get together and she breaks up with her boyfriend. Evan believes in Kate, always encouraging her to follow her dream.
They are both so in love with each other. Their relationship is sweet, easy. They have things in common, they support each other. As their lives take different directions, things change between them. Evan graduates college and gets a good job in a marketing firm downtown. Kate is still working at the bar, doing photography as just a hobby. Kate has never felt good enough for Evan. She always feels like he is going to move on, leave her behind. This causes her to push him away at times. A few incidents happen, Evan can’t trust Kate because of her past. They break up, breaking both of their hearts in two.
Two plus years later... both are still miserable. Evan has tried to move on, but he never stops thinking of Kate. Every girl he attempts to date doesn’t come close to how he felt about her. Kate doesn’t even bother. She is sick of moving from relationship to relationship when she is clearly not over Evan. Eventually, their paths cross. They both realize they still have feelings, but how can they be together? What is love without trust?
When I was getting ready to read this one, I had high exceptions, I really enjoyed Bouquet Toss, and was looking forward to reading Evan’s story. It did not disappoint! I enjoyed this more than Bouquet Toss. The writing was smooth, The story was beautiful. Perfect combination of love, passion, heartache, sweet and sexy. Champagne Toast is written from Evan and Kate’s pov.
The ending was perfect...
This is a book I would most definitely recommend for anyone looking to read a good love story!
Things that remind me of Evan and Kate’s love <3
Read and Enjoy!!!
January 16, 2013
CLICK HERE TO READ MY FULL REVIEW AT READING, EATING AND DREAMING I WAS BLAIR WALDORF
Champagne Toast by Melissa Brown is a stunning story about true love and second chances.
This novel was an emotional roller coaster. Kate and Evan's journey to love was full of ups and downs. Watching them fall in love was a joyful experience. Their happiness was contagious. Watching them fall apart and mourn the loss of one another was heartbreaking. It was touching to see how broken up they were over the loss of one another. Their unwavering love for one another, even at their lowest point, gave me hope.
I like how the author played on the character's flaws and showed how hard it is to break out of a cycle. The main character Kate was very passionate about photography, but after numerous people belittled her passion and labeled it a hobby, she lost her fire and stopped pursing her dream. I like how the author showed how hard it can be to break free from the labels and self-doubt. It was inspiring.
I gave Champagne Toast by Melissa Brown 4 STARS (3.5 STARS). I would definitely recommend this passionate, sassy romance novel to adults who love a great second chance love story!
-XOXO
READING, EATING AND DREAMING
Champagne Toast by Melissa Brown is a stunning story about true love and second chances.
This novel was an emotional roller coaster. Kate and Evan's journey to love was full of ups and downs. Watching them fall in love was a joyful experience. Their happiness was contagious. Watching them fall apart and mourn the loss of one another was heartbreaking. It was touching to see how broken up they were over the loss of one another. Their unwavering love for one another, even at their lowest point, gave me hope.
I like how the author played on the character's flaws and showed how hard it is to break out of a cycle. The main character Kate was very passionate about photography, but after numerous people belittled her passion and labeled it a hobby, she lost her fire and stopped pursing her dream. I like how the author showed how hard it can be to break free from the labels and self-doubt. It was inspiring.
I gave Champagne Toast by Melissa Brown 4 STARS (3.5 STARS). I would definitely recommend this passionate, sassy romance novel to adults who love a great second chance love story!
-XOXO
READING, EATING AND DREAMING
February 11, 2013
Angst Filled 4 .5 Stars
Angst is definitely the name of the game where this book’s concerned. Told from alternating points of view, this is the story of Kate and Evan. Its lights out, love at first sight for these two college kids when Evan comes to interview for a job at the bar where Kate works. It’s not your everyday, “I think you’re aces” kind of love. It’s the kind of love that makes you protect your heart because if that love ever left, you’d be shattered.
Kate has issues. Issues with her difficult parents who want her to fit into a slot that just doesn’t feel right. Issues with her own self worth and a dating history she’d rather forget. Evan, seemingly issue free at the start of the book, wants to help her learn to believe in herself and move forward but that proves to be easier said then done. Kate starts to open up and shares something that’s occurred in every one of her past relationships, thinking Evan would appreciate the honesty. Unfortunately Kate’s honesty comes back to bite her. As much as Evan loves Kate, there’s now a little part of him that doesn’t fully trust her. Add in Evan graduating and moving forward career wise, Kate’s feelings of inadequacy and both of them trying desperately to protect their hearts and you have a recipe for disaster.
”You were never good enough for him.” Poor Kate.
This is a story about coming back together as much as it is about being in love and in a relationship. Both Evan and Kate had a lot of growing to do before they could make the relationship work, but their love for each other was never in doubt. As sometimes emotional as this book was, it was also funny and real. The author did an incredibly realistic job of telling this story from both sides and while my heart broke more for one of the characters in particular, I got why the relationship went down the way it did. My only issue was what I perceive as the too tidy ending. That’s a whole lot of drama to be wrapped up the way it eventually was.
If you don’t feel like riding an emotional rollercoaster, this book may not be your thing. I was in the mood for some drama and it worked for me in a big way.
Angst is definitely the name of the game where this book’s concerned. Told from alternating points of view, this is the story of Kate and Evan. Its lights out, love at first sight for these two college kids when Evan comes to interview for a job at the bar where Kate works. It’s not your everyday, “I think you’re aces” kind of love. It’s the kind of love that makes you protect your heart because if that love ever left, you’d be shattered.
Kate has issues. Issues with her difficult parents who want her to fit into a slot that just doesn’t feel right. Issues with her own self worth and a dating history she’d rather forget. Evan, seemingly issue free at the start of the book, wants to help her learn to believe in herself and move forward but that proves to be easier said then done. Kate starts to open up and shares something that’s occurred in every one of her past relationships, thinking Evan would appreciate the honesty. Unfortunately Kate’s honesty comes back to bite her. As much as Evan loves Kate, there’s now a little part of him that doesn’t fully trust her. Add in Evan graduating and moving forward career wise, Kate’s feelings of inadequacy and both of them trying desperately to protect their hearts and you have a recipe for disaster.
”You were never good enough for him.” Poor Kate.
This is a story about coming back together as much as it is about being in love and in a relationship. Both Evan and Kate had a lot of growing to do before they could make the relationship work, but their love for each other was never in doubt. As sometimes emotional as this book was, it was also funny and real. The author did an incredibly realistic job of telling this story from both sides and while my heart broke more for one of the characters in particular, I got why the relationship went down the way it did. My only issue was what I perceive as the too tidy ending. That’s a whole lot of drama to be wrapped up the way it eventually was.
If you don’t feel like riding an emotional rollercoaster, this book may not be your thing. I was in the mood for some drama and it worked for me in a big way.
January 12, 2013
The second installment in Melissa Brown’s Love of My Life Series, Champagne Toast delivers a punch in the gut, a swooning romance and a testament to true love. I was more emotionally invested in the story of Kate and Evan simply because I felt their pain as they tried to maneuver through what they both believed was a relationship doomed from the start. Melissa Brown fluently expressed every emotion through Kate and Evan’s words and thoughts. When an author’s words move you enough that you swear you can feel their joy and agony, that experience is just plain priceless.
January 17, 2013
“I’m scared,” she says, looking into my eyes, pleading for reassurance. “Don’t be. I’m here … right in front of you. Stop pushing me away … or eventually I’ll go.”
This is the tumultuous story of Kate and Evan, two people deeply in love with each other, and their battle to find their happy ending. Over a time span of five years, we follow the ups and downs of a relationship that is tainted by mistrust, jealousy, self-doubt, pride, and eventually distance, all the while carried forward by an undeniable connection of souls that cannot fight the pull their feel towards one another.
Kate and Evan meet while both still at college, but while Evan is driven and with a clear path in front of him, having always had the loving support of his family in everything he ever did, Kate is a drifter. She works at a bar and secretly dreams of becoming a photographer, but does not have the courage or financial backing to pursue her dream. Her parents’ lack of encouragement and disparaging attitude towards her artistic affinities have shaped her into a young woman with very little self-confidence when it comes to her craft.
“… my mother has no faith in me. She thinks I’m a flake, someone who never follows through.”
Her insecurities have also affected every relationship she has ever been in, repeatedly choosing men who are not interested in ‘scratching under the surface’, and always afraid to express her true self with them. She has hopped from one relationship to another, often overlapping them, never giving herself a chance to find herself. Her track record of infidelity is more of a reflection of her low self-esteem and fear of being alone, rather than an inherent inability to commit to one man.
Until she meets Evan. They fall in love effortlessly, immediately, completely. Evan is the first boyfriend Kate has ever had who supports her unconditionally, always pushing her to want more out of life and never settle for anything less. He is her champion, her one-man-fan-club, her reason for daring to dream and want to make something of her life, but Kate’s demons are deeply rooted and inescapable. The more Evan pushes her to turn her dreams into reality, the more she feels unworthy of his love and faith in her, making her keep pushing him away. This only feeds his jealousy and suspicion that she would replace him eventually, spiralling them towards an inevitable end.
“Maybe my mother is right about me. Maybe I am a terrible investment, and Evan’s made the horrible mistake of investing himself in me. Maybe I’m nothing but a self-saboteur who pushes away anything good that comes along in my life.”
Two and a half years together and then two and a half years apart. They never stop thinking about each other, grieving the loss, aching for one another. By hearing both their voices, we feel their pain, their longing, their regret, and it breaks our hearts. They constantly crave what their let slip through their fingers, wondering whether the other has moved on, found love again, forgotten about them. Their issues of trust, both in themselves as well in each other, keep them apart but unable to move on.
“You were my first and only love, and you ripped my f*cking heart to shreds! … You demolished me! You turned me to f*cking rubble, and I’ve never been the same.”
A moving account of the turmoils of a relationship lacking the necessary foundations to survive without significant change. Time is their enemy but it is also their greatest ally as it teaches them to put things into perspective and learn from their mistakes. Nothing is rushed, nothing is forced. Through a subtle lesson of needing to believe in oneself and never expect the worst in people, Evan and Kate travel their journey honestly and willing to change for the sake of what they want the most. Each other.
You never lose faith in human nature when reading a Melissa Brown book. I believe a book often reflects that author’s general view on life and now after having read two of her novels, I want to keep ‘swimming’ in her unique brand of positivity. In true Melissa Brown style, we are given two characters to love, invest ourselves in, and cheer for. We are shown true heartbreak but we also stay confident that she would look after our hearts in the end. There is great joy and comfort in that.
A book for the heart and from the heart, a beautifully narrated story that will feed every single romantic bone in your body.
“From the moment you walked into my life, I belonged to you, Ev. Only you.”
[4.5 STARS]
~ N ♥
See this review on my blog! | Follow me on Facebook!
January 11, 2013
SPOILERS... I did block the main ones out.. but just in case..
-----------------------
No one has ever made me feel like this, no one. So much regret, so much loss, and so much desire all swirled together in my muddled brain. In my muddled heart.
This book... sigh... god i am seriously fangirling right now - you should see how giddy I am.. seriously this smile has been plastered on my face and will be there for a while
You have me, Kate. I’m yours
This book is about two people with imperfect timing. Two people so blinded in love, that allow misunderstandings and distrust ruin them. This book is about second chances and a love that does not lessen with time, but grows stronger.
This book is about a love that seriously anyone would die for.
You’re not good enough for him, Kate.
I know that, goddamnit. I know. But still . . . I want him.
Evan the main hero of this book is a typical guy.. in that he believes everything he says is right and let's his ego/pride get in the way of his true happiness. But he is also human, and with that comes faults, that are easy to forgive because this guy is also one of the sweetest, most adorable, strong, determined, devoted, loyal book boyfriends I have read in a long time. He is someone you can not help wish will get his happily ever after, as he really does deserve it.
Kissing Kate is like nothing I’ve ever experienced. And as much as I want to think I’m the good guy, as much as I’ve proclaimed that sleeping with an at- tached girl isn’t my style, I’m not walking away. I can’t. I have her now. She’s mine.
And I’m not going anywhere.
“Look at me, please, and hear what I’m telling you. I love you. You’re everything to me, Kate, everything. You’ve completely captured me. Don’t let go. Please, don’t let go.”
Kate.. what a loveable yet completely irritating lead! She had a terrible childhood, with parents who were never supportive or there.. that led to her insecurity, mistrust and unwillingness to give her heart away. Yet, that all changes with Evan. I loved seeing her character grow, and slowly begin to open up to Evan. What annoyed the hell out of me, was the fact that she should have told Evan how she was feeling instead of distancing herself in order to protect her heart. In the end, her own mistrust did not protect her heart but ruined it. She should have fought for him.
That’s the thing about love — it’s full of possibilities. It can lead you down so many different paths. Sure, for some of us, it can lead to sadness and regret. But, for others, well, for others it can lead them to the greatest future they could’ve ever hoped for. Love is the most possible thing in the world.
“The truth? You were my first and only love, and you ripped my fucking heart to shreds!” he yells.
I really loved how the book starts in the present, then goes back in the past to show how the characters fell in love, and what led to their demise before returning to the present again. It added more depth to the book and left you with something to look forward to in the end.
You are the only woman I’ve ever loved. The only one. Ever.
I highly recommend this book, and I give it a solid 4/5!
“From the moment you walked into my life, I belonged to you, Ev. Only you.”
-----------------------
No one has ever made me feel like this, no one. So much regret, so much loss, and so much desire all swirled together in my muddled brain. In my muddled heart.
This book... sigh... god i am seriously fangirling right now - you should see how giddy I am.. seriously this smile has been plastered on my face and will be there for a while
You have me, Kate. I’m yours
This book is about two people with imperfect timing. Two people so blinded in love, that allow misunderstandings and distrust ruin them. This book is about second chances and a love that does not lessen with time, but grows stronger.
This book is about a love that seriously anyone would die for.
You’re not good enough for him, Kate.
I know that, goddamnit. I know. But still . . . I want him.
Evan the main hero of this book is a typical guy.. in that he believes everything he says is right and let's his ego/pride get in the way of his true happiness. But he is also human, and with that comes faults, that are easy to forgive because this guy is also one of the sweetest, most adorable, strong, determined, devoted, loyal book boyfriends I have read in a long time. He is someone you can not help wish will get his happily ever after, as he really does deserve it.
Kissing Kate is like nothing I’ve ever experienced. And as much as I want to think I’m the good guy, as much as I’ve proclaimed that sleeping with an at- tached girl isn’t my style, I’m not walking away. I can’t. I have her now. She’s mine.
And I’m not going anywhere.
“Look at me, please, and hear what I’m telling you. I love you. You’re everything to me, Kate, everything. You’ve completely captured me. Don’t let go. Please, don’t let go.”
Kate.. what a loveable yet completely irritating lead! She had a terrible childhood, with parents who were never supportive or there.. that led to her insecurity, mistrust and unwillingness to give her heart away. Yet, that all changes with Evan. I loved seeing her character grow, and slowly begin to open up to Evan. What annoyed the hell out of me, was the fact that she should have told Evan how she was feeling instead of distancing herself in order to protect her heart. In the end, her own mistrust did not protect her heart but ruined it. She should have fought for him.
That’s the thing about love — it’s full of possibilities. It can lead you down so many different paths. Sure, for some of us, it can lead to sadness and regret. But, for others, well, for others it can lead them to the greatest future they could’ve ever hoped for. Love is the most possible thing in the world.
“The truth? You were my first and only love, and you ripped my fucking heart to shreds!” he yells.
I really loved how the book starts in the present, then goes back in the past to show how the characters fell in love, and what led to their demise before returning to the present again. It added more depth to the book and left you with something to look forward to in the end.
You are the only woman I’ve ever loved. The only one. Ever.
I highly recommend this book, and I give it a solid 4/5!
“From the moment you walked into my life, I belonged to you, Ev. Only you.”
January 22, 2013
4.5 stars
Last Kiss
Lucky
There's something about this book that just draws you in, when I first read the blurb of this one I was excited to read it, the book trailer Champagne Toast Trailer was just squeeeee. I know I shouldve read Bouquet Toss first but I just had to bypass and jump right in. Im a huge sucker for second chance love stories and this one doesnt disappoint.
Evan is a sweetie, I mean really even if I had no prior background on him. He just wins. I adored him he was all heart,I was about to think he was jerk but really he was just as hurt and confused about it all, I can't really blame his doubt its not so misplaced. I think he just needed a more solid reassurance and time. He's the kind of character you can picture as someone you know or would like to know. He did really try his hardest I think to make them work. I realize this boy isnt the typical book boyfriend type but he definitely made it on my list. Kate, this girl had lots insecurities and doubts, I dont blame her for thinking or feeling the stuff she did but sometimes she was a bit much. Her upbringing wasnt so good that definitely had played into how she acted.
To feel like your watching these two people fall in love is so sweet. Their moments and how they shined together. Its hard to see them battle out their own misgivings with each other. You really get both of them. When things arent going so well you wanna wish them well. When it all falls appart it hurts.
I hoped they find their way back, and fix things. I didnt really want it to be one of those there's someone else stories. Its been a struggle for them they love each other so much that it hurts them. Its a struggle for them both. But I think they both needed to grow as individuals, more Kate to be honest. When they do get back on track its worth it to see them smile and enjoy the moment. I think Evan helped Kate grow a lot as a person to get outside her fears. We get both of Kate and Evan's thoughts so we get to see it outside looking in. They really are good for the other.
All in all, I enjoyed this read, I plowed through the book in one go. I cant wait for Picture Perfect. This was a cute, sweet, a bit of angst and just heartfelt from beginning to end that's perfect if youre looking for a comfort read to cheer you up.
Last Kiss
Lucky
There's something about this book that just draws you in, when I first read the blurb of this one I was excited to read it, the book trailer Champagne Toast Trailer was just squeeeee. I know I shouldve read Bouquet Toss first but I just had to bypass and jump right in. Im a huge sucker for second chance love stories and this one doesnt disappoint.
Evan is a sweetie, I mean really even if I had no prior background on him. He just wins. I adored him he was all heart,I was about to think he was jerk but really he was just as hurt and confused about it all, I can't really blame his doubt its not so misplaced. I think he just needed a more solid reassurance and time. He's the kind of character you can picture as someone you know or would like to know. He did really try his hardest I think to make them work. I realize this boy isnt the typical book boyfriend type but he definitely made it on my list. Kate, this girl had lots insecurities and doubts, I dont blame her for thinking or feeling the stuff she did but sometimes she was a bit much. Her upbringing wasnt so good that definitely had played into how she acted.
To feel like your watching these two people fall in love is so sweet. Their moments and how they shined together. Its hard to see them battle out their own misgivings with each other. You really get both of them. When things arent going so well you wanna wish them well. When it all falls appart it hurts.
I hoped they find their way back, and fix things. I didnt really want it to be one of those there's someone else stories. Its been a struggle for them they love each other so much that it hurts them. Its a struggle for them both. But I think they both needed to grow as individuals, more Kate to be honest. When they do get back on track its worth it to see them smile and enjoy the moment. I think Evan helped Kate grow a lot as a person to get outside her fears. We get both of Kate and Evan's thoughts so we get to see it outside looking in. They really are good for the other.
All in all, I enjoyed this read, I plowed through the book in one go. I cant wait for Picture Perfect. This was a cute, sweet, a bit of angst and just heartfelt from beginning to end that's perfect if youre looking for a comfort read to cheer you up.
Want to read
November 9, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (11/9/2020)! 🎁
April 13, 2013
I really liked this.
Evan was a great Hero – LOVE HIM
Kate lots of fun and sass as a heroine. – Typical heroine though where you want to punch her a few times for being so fucking stupid.
Some people aren’t fans of the whole back and forth with the future of the past.
I like it when the story starts at the ¾ mark so we know they are broken and we have to go back to the past to find out what happened to them to break so we can then get to them being complete at the end.
- example Think Avoiding Responsibility – I know that’s not “complete” at the end, but you get my point about starting with the phone call and then going back to get Jack and Lexie’s story?
The dual POV was great. I love multiple POV’s.
And I didn’t read Daphne’s book first so I don’t think you need to cos I had no problems following along.
Written fantastically, some LOL moments, some happy moments, some super sad moments, and a very well written HEA makes me a very happy woman.
Evan was a great Hero – LOVE HIM
Kate lots of fun and sass as a heroine. – Typical heroine though where you want to punch her a few times for being so fucking stupid.
Some people aren’t fans of the whole back and forth with the future of the past.
I like it when the story starts at the ¾ mark so we know they are broken and we have to go back to the past to find out what happened to them to break so we can then get to them being complete at the end.
- example Think Avoiding Responsibility – I know that’s not “complete” at the end, but you get my point about starting with the phone call and then going back to get Jack and Lexie’s story?
The dual POV was great. I love multiple POV’s.
And I didn’t read Daphne’s book first so I don’t think you need to cos I had no problems following along.
Written fantastically, some LOL moments, some happy moments, some super sad moments, and a very well written HEA makes me a very happy woman.
January 14, 2013
4.5 stars. Really, really liked this one. Love me some romantic drama but hate the angst. Angst here was well written and didn't have me anxiously speed reading ahead to find out what would happen with Evan/Kate but satisfying enough to let me enjoy how it played out. Both Evan/Kate were evenly flawed but likeable (which is rare for me to like both H/h) and the story with its emotional ups and downs developed at an even believable pace. Alternating POV's which I always enjoy and a very HEA for Evan/Kate with a nice epilogue. This is a new author for me and will definitely be reading more of her bks.
January 11, 2013
I'm not sure what I love more Melissa Browns writing or her love of 80’s movies. I was given the gift of one of the best movie scene ever (insert one large boom box and one love sick John Cusack) in The Bouquet Toss and now I am gifted with The Breakfast Club (Sweet). Throw in a NKOTB reference and I knew that this book had “The Right Stuff”.
In the follow up to The Bouquet Toss, The Champagne Toast brings us Evan!
"Evan Maxwell and Kate Armour fell hard and fast for each other while attending college. Their once passionate and loving relationship ended when old scars eventually tore them apart. Two years after their breakup, they're each struggling to piece together what went wrong in an attempt to move forward.
Kate, a no-nonsense bartender, must face her past while attempting to focus on her future.
Evan is stifled by his bitter heart, which threatens each and every relationship he attempts after walking away from Kate. Will life offer them a second chance at love or are old patterns simply too hard to break."
Starting this book I knew that I would fall in love with Evan. When I was introduced to him in The Bouquet Toss I knew he would be hard to forget and boy was I right. Evan is sweet, caring, loving and attentive. Though out his relationship with Kate love grows but its not always easy.
When Kate entered the picture I knew that love was not going to be easy for these two. After denying it they both fell for each other, hard. I was drawn into this story. Melissa Brown painted a picture with her words that shows love, pain and sorrow. “Real love is the most possible thing in the world”. Now I did find myself wanting to yell at my Kindle at multiple parts! “Sweets. You couldn't ignore me if you tried”. If everything in life could be solved via a cheesy 80’s the world would be a better place but it is never that easy.
With a mix of well written characters and a believable story line Champagne Toast holds your attention from beginning to end. Will Evan and Kate be able to fight the war that is love and come out on top...you will have to download your copy today to find out. Melissa Brown did not disappoint with this follow up and this book would be a great add to your bookshelf. For me this was a 5 star!
In the follow up to The Bouquet Toss, The Champagne Toast brings us Evan!
"Evan Maxwell and Kate Armour fell hard and fast for each other while attending college. Their once passionate and loving relationship ended when old scars eventually tore them apart. Two years after their breakup, they're each struggling to piece together what went wrong in an attempt to move forward.
Kate, a no-nonsense bartender, must face her past while attempting to focus on her future.
Evan is stifled by his bitter heart, which threatens each and every relationship he attempts after walking away from Kate. Will life offer them a second chance at love or are old patterns simply too hard to break."
Starting this book I knew that I would fall in love with Evan. When I was introduced to him in The Bouquet Toss I knew he would be hard to forget and boy was I right. Evan is sweet, caring, loving and attentive. Though out his relationship with Kate love grows but its not always easy.
When Kate entered the picture I knew that love was not going to be easy for these two. After denying it they both fell for each other, hard. I was drawn into this story. Melissa Brown painted a picture with her words that shows love, pain and sorrow. “Real love is the most possible thing in the world”. Now I did find myself wanting to yell at my Kindle at multiple parts! “Sweets. You couldn't ignore me if you tried”. If everything in life could be solved via a cheesy 80’s the world would be a better place but it is never that easy.
With a mix of well written characters and a believable story line Champagne Toast holds your attention from beginning to end. Will Evan and Kate be able to fight the war that is love and come out on top...you will have to download your copy today to find out. Melissa Brown did not disappoint with this follow up and this book would be a great add to your bookshelf. For me this was a 5 star!
March 24, 2017
So glad I picked up this book. I was so certain I would love the background on Evan and Kate. I had made up my mind that it would take a while for Kate to work her way into my system. Well that took about 5 sentences. I think I fell harder for Kate than Evan did. Evan actually lost some serious ground, it took him a while to dig himself out of that hole.
I loved the start and the end of the book, but I felt a bit cheated in the middle. I know it was all for the good of the story - but I wanted my HEA like yesterday. The start was all about their history - meeting, falling in love, the horrible ending. The middle was the separate stories of their lives apart - then the ending....meeting again and dealing with all the baggage they had left unresolved.
Kate is a serial cheater - the type of girl that has the next guy lined up before she drops the current guy. Then she meets Evan and she makes the mistake of being honest about her past. Guess what that causes....doubt - yep and a shit-storm of trust issues. Kate is full of self doubt and Evan pushes her to believe in herself. He is her biggest fan, but she shuts down. Just as they are making progress, Evan refuses to allow Kate to explain what he just witnessed. Now we have a two heartbroken people. Evan can't get over the thought that she could have cheated on her and she can't get over the fact that he could not trust her and that he walked away. Both blame each other for the disaster. But that all changes when they are face to face - a brief moment of relief...followed by a moment where you want to rip Evan's Eyes out...then a moment when you want to rip his clothes of and profess your undying love for him. And a lot of slapping the hell out of both of them is included as well.
But Evan and Kate never get over their love for each other...but getting over their past mistakes is harder than expected.
January 16, 2013
EVAN!!!!!!!!!! Boom… Now that I’ve got that out of the way, let me tell you about Melissa Brown’s Champagne Toast. I was introduced into Melissa Brown’s world of writing when I found a hidden gem of a book called Bouquet Toss. Little did I know how much my reading world would be rocked. So needless to say, I was freakin’ giddy like a school- girl when I found out there would be another book following Bouquet Toss. I remember messaging Ms. Brown, telling her how much I enjoyed Evan’s character in Bouquet Toss. And he was a secondary character. I absolutely love his kindness, his openness and his sincerity. What I liked most about his character was that he was more realistic in that he wasn’t an unattainable man. He wasn’t fantasy gorgeous, he wasn’t the bad boy that you will forever chase and never get. He wasn’t intimidating with his sexiness. He was just Evan. Someone attractive in every way. Someone who melts your heart and just makes you feel good all over.
Champagne Toast is Evan’s story. Evan and Kate. It is told from both characters point of views as well as recalling the past and living in the present. For this story, the varying POV’s and timestamps worked really well in giving us a definite and vivid idea of where the characters were coming from and where they might be headed to.
Melissa Brown writes stories that warm your heart and make you believe in the beauty of love. There is nothing raunchy or dirty about her stories. I love that they just fill your heart and soul with sunshine. I love that she can put a lump in your throat and make a tear fall down your cheek. I love that you just feel content when you read one of her books. She writes stories that you don’t expect would elicit the feelings or emotions that arise. Her books are thoughtful and sincere.
I would recommend Melissa’s books to anyone looking for a wonderful love story. If Champagne Toast is on your TBR- bump it up. And if not, get on it.
Champagne Toast is Evan’s story. Evan and Kate. It is told from both characters point of views as well as recalling the past and living in the present. For this story, the varying POV’s and timestamps worked really well in giving us a definite and vivid idea of where the characters were coming from and where they might be headed to.
Melissa Brown writes stories that warm your heart and make you believe in the beauty of love. There is nothing raunchy or dirty about her stories. I love that they just fill your heart and soul with sunshine. I love that she can put a lump in your throat and make a tear fall down your cheek. I love that you just feel content when you read one of her books. She writes stories that you don’t expect would elicit the feelings or emotions that arise. Her books are thoughtful and sincere.
I would recommend Melissa’s books to anyone looking for a wonderful love story. If Champagne Toast is on your TBR- bump it up. And if not, get on it.
May 10, 2013
First things first, middle-aged, heterosexual males with Hemingway complexes were not on Ms. Brown's radar when she was penning this book. I'm about as far from the target audience of this novel as you can get. That being the case, I liked it. I really liked it.
Champagne Toast works incredibly well when the reader is drawn into the hearts and minds of Kate and Evan. These characters are fully formed and fleshed out early enough in the story that not only does the reader feel that they get to know the characters, but that you also get to spend enough time with them to be fully invested in their happiness. For me, maybe that is where the novel works least as well.
The flaws in both Kate and Evan are realistic and found in people we encounter every day. There is nothing in the author's rendering of them to find fault with, and in fact there is much to admire in the writing that lets us see inside Kate and Evan. But in the end their train wreck of a relationship is tiring and a little difficult for me to sympathize with. Both of them become like a misguided sibling or best friend who continuously makes the same mistakes over and over again. It's not that you don't care, but maybe you wished you didn't care quite so much.
Whatever misgivings I may have for the protagonists, the story line of Champagne Toast redeems all. The overall pace is highly enjoyable, and the third act is a fantastic whirl of character maturation and concluding action. The author really brings it home with a flourish. The conclusion more than satisfies, and I'm looking forward to reading the next book from Melissa Brown with great anticipation.
Champagne Toast works incredibly well when the reader is drawn into the hearts and minds of Kate and Evan. These characters are fully formed and fleshed out early enough in the story that not only does the reader feel that they get to know the characters, but that you also get to spend enough time with them to be fully invested in their happiness. For me, maybe that is where the novel works least as well.
The flaws in both Kate and Evan are realistic and found in people we encounter every day. There is nothing in the author's rendering of them to find fault with, and in fact there is much to admire in the writing that lets us see inside Kate and Evan. But in the end their train wreck of a relationship is tiring and a little difficult for me to sympathize with. Both of them become like a misguided sibling or best friend who continuously makes the same mistakes over and over again. It's not that you don't care, but maybe you wished you didn't care quite so much.
Whatever misgivings I may have for the protagonists, the story line of Champagne Toast redeems all. The overall pace is highly enjoyable, and the third act is a fantastic whirl of character maturation and concluding action. The author really brings it home with a flourish. The conclusion more than satisfies, and I'm looking forward to reading the next book from Melissa Brown with great anticipation.
January 14, 2013
I LOVED this book! It was full of angst and romance, and the writing was beautiful. Evan and Kate were a great couple that you couldn't help but root for one minute and want to kick them in one or both of their arses the next. Both together and apart, they were at times likable and at other times...not so much. This is my kind of contemporary romance, and I loved the use of the timeline and back-and-forth POV's to tell their story. This is my first Melissa Brown read, and I can't wait to read more!
Note: I didn't realize it when I read this, but "Bouquet Toss" is actually the first book in the Love of My Life series (Champagne Toast is the 2nd). It's not necessary to read Bouquet Toss first, but there are a couple of characters (that I know of) that are in both books, including the hero of this book, Evan, who is a side character in Bouquet Toss.
Note: I didn't realize it when I read this, but "Bouquet Toss" is actually the first book in the Love of My Life series (Champagne Toast is the 2nd). It's not necessary to read Bouquet Toss first, but there are a couple of characters (that I know of) that are in both books, including the hero of this book, Evan, who is a side character in Bouquet Toss.
January 27, 2013
I thought Melissa Brown had outdone herself with Bouquet Toss, but WOW, she knocked this one straight out of the park. This is the second book in her Love of Your Life series and it does not disappoint! Evan is a man that you can't help but fall in love with! I adored him and ached with him during his journey with Kate. Melissa can write some serious love scenes without making them graphic to the point of many erotica novels. Her words flowed beautifully through this story and I was blown away! Reflecting from present to past, this is the romance and heartache of Evan and Kate and how they ended up where they are today. There was plenty of angst, some serious swoon-worthy moments, and a beautiful ending! This is a love story that you simply cannot miss! 5 breathtaking stars!!!!
January 15, 2013
I loved the story of Evan! I wondered about him in Bouquet Toss and I just knew he was a perfect storyline. It was good to see Kate come into her own....on her own. So I guess the break with Evan was a part of her life lesson to be able to stand on her own and recognize her talents and her qualities. Why is it though that the man always gets to date and screw around, but the female does not. TWO YEARS and she remains Celibate? Really? So stereotypical and so not fair.
All in all a great read....great job Melissa!!!
All in all a great read....great job Melissa!!!
January 10, 2013
I read the sample of this book. After reading it I was hesitant to buy the book. I didn't like how the sample jumped around in time. Bout, because of the reviews I read I decided to purchase the book. I am SO glad I did. This book was awesome. I pulled at my emotions through the entire book. GREAT READ!
January 30, 2013
I loved this book.The story line was a breath of fresh air. It didn't involve Billionaire playboys w/ a BDSM fetish or characters that had unrealistic heavy baggage. They were the true couple next door type. A couple you could relate to which made a huge pull on my heart while I read it. No eye rolling here.
January 12, 2013
It quotes The Breakfast Club ... that sound like a winner to me! I really enjoyed reading this book it was a breath of fresh air. I wish that it had a second part.
September 24, 2013
Review originally posted on Talk Supe
Champagne Toast is a very well written romance with characters who have great chemistry and an angst driven story that'll keep you transfixed from the very beginning till the very end where our main characters finally reach their happily ever after. Evan and Kate's story was emotionally telling and realistic and I enjoyed every minute of the highs and lows of their romance.
"You were my first and only love, and you ripped my fucking heart to shreds! You demolished me! You turned me to fucking rubble, and I've never been the same."
Told in alternating POV's from past and present, Champagne Toast follows Kate and Evan's love story that is full of up and downs in the span of five year. At the beginning, Kate Armour and Evan Maxwell's story is typical of what a young college couples relationship would be like. There's the excitement of new love and discovering one another. They love, they fight, they make up. The chemistry is wild, intense, deep, and passionate. Evan is a highly motivated college student who works hard on his studies and making a living to pay for his expenses. His determination really shines when he first meets bartender/server, Kate, at the local bar he's interviewing at. The attraction between the two is instant and it doesn't take long before they're a couple; even though it occurred while Kate was still in another relationship. While Evan is focused and determined, Kate is still going through life trying to figure out what her passion in life is.The pressure of trying to live up to her parents expectations has derailed her for going after what she truly wants, which is a career in photography. Evan constantly praises her talents and pushes Kate to go after hear dreams.
"When were together, it's madness in the best possible way. It's the finale of a freaking fireworks show every single time. We can't get enough; it's furious and passionate and out of control."
After two and a half years of an intense and all consuming relationship the bind that holds the couple together eventually starts to detiriorate. Kate's insecurities and lack of self confidence has always led her to make poor choices in life which also included sabotaging her relationships. Since she was a teen, Kate had always jumped from one relationship to another and she has been unfaithful in each one. It's this fact that eventually starts the demise of Kate and Evan and their relationship is tinged with bouts of jealousy and mistrust. Their misunderstandings and refusal to assess their situations eventually leaves them both bitter and disheartened. Even years after their breakup, neither is able to move on or let go. It's through this separation where they figure out and remember why they were together in the first place. The love is still very present with the two but it in order for their second chance at love to work they must learn to trust and forgive each other in order for them to move on.
I'm still in awe that Champagne Toast is only Melissa Brown's second novel. I was completely impressed with her writing and story telling in Bouquet Toss and in Champagne Toast Melissa proves once again what a great romantic writer she is. Her stories aren't overly complicated and her words flow effortlessly as you get lost in her stories. As you read about Kate and Evan's romance you get a real sense that you're getting to know these characters in a personal level and you are right there with them as they fall in love, laugh, cry, and go through heartache. Melissa Brown reminds you that love is not easy. There will most definitely be ups and downs, good times and bad. But it's the love that goes through the toughest trials and tribulations that are worth saving and fighting for.
If you are a lover of love, then you most definitely will not want to miss out Melissa Brown's Love of My Life series.
Champagne Toast is a very well written romance with characters who have great chemistry and an angst driven story that'll keep you transfixed from the very beginning till the very end where our main characters finally reach their happily ever after. Evan and Kate's story was emotionally telling and realistic and I enjoyed every minute of the highs and lows of their romance.
"You were my first and only love, and you ripped my fucking heart to shreds! You demolished me! You turned me to fucking rubble, and I've never been the same."
Told in alternating POV's from past and present, Champagne Toast follows Kate and Evan's love story that is full of up and downs in the span of five year. At the beginning, Kate Armour and Evan Maxwell's story is typical of what a young college couples relationship would be like. There's the excitement of new love and discovering one another. They love, they fight, they make up. The chemistry is wild, intense, deep, and passionate. Evan is a highly motivated college student who works hard on his studies and making a living to pay for his expenses. His determination really shines when he first meets bartender/server, Kate, at the local bar he's interviewing at. The attraction between the two is instant and it doesn't take long before they're a couple; even though it occurred while Kate was still in another relationship. While Evan is focused and determined, Kate is still going through life trying to figure out what her passion in life is.The pressure of trying to live up to her parents expectations has derailed her for going after what she truly wants, which is a career in photography. Evan constantly praises her talents and pushes Kate to go after hear dreams.
"When were together, it's madness in the best possible way. It's the finale of a freaking fireworks show every single time. We can't get enough; it's furious and passionate and out of control."
After two and a half years of an intense and all consuming relationship the bind that holds the couple together eventually starts to detiriorate. Kate's insecurities and lack of self confidence has always led her to make poor choices in life which also included sabotaging her relationships. Since she was a teen, Kate had always jumped from one relationship to another and she has been unfaithful in each one. It's this fact that eventually starts the demise of Kate and Evan and their relationship is tinged with bouts of jealousy and mistrust. Their misunderstandings and refusal to assess their situations eventually leaves them both bitter and disheartened. Even years after their breakup, neither is able to move on or let go. It's through this separation where they figure out and remember why they were together in the first place. The love is still very present with the two but it in order for their second chance at love to work they must learn to trust and forgive each other in order for them to move on.
I'm still in awe that Champagne Toast is only Melissa Brown's second novel. I was completely impressed with her writing and story telling in Bouquet Toss and in Champagne Toast Melissa proves once again what a great romantic writer she is. Her stories aren't overly complicated and her words flow effortlessly as you get lost in her stories. As you read about Kate and Evan's romance you get a real sense that you're getting to know these characters in a personal level and you are right there with them as they fall in love, laugh, cry, and go through heartache. Melissa Brown reminds you that love is not easy. There will most definitely be ups and downs, good times and bad. But it's the love that goes through the toughest trials and tribulations that are worth saving and fighting for.
If you are a lover of love, then you most definitely will not want to miss out Melissa Brown's Love of My Life series.
February 6, 2013
this was really good. review coming soon.
---------------------------------------------
First can I just say I dislike this cover? He looks like he’s trying to make out with that napkin, and if that’s his real kissy face, I’m not interested. That’s how my 4 year old kisses. Sure he’s probably just wiping his mouth, but no need to look like a bloated fish while doing it. Okay, cover rant over. Tee hee.
I did however, really love this book. I was a little Meh about Bouquet Toss. Daphne annoyed me with her constant pining over a Dbag, I just didn’t understand her. It was a character connection problem I think. Champagne Toast posed no problems there for me. I connected with both Evan and Kate on high levels.
Oh, Evan, let us start with him. *sigh* I don’t think Evan is my type. He’s too out going and into all the stuff I’m really not into. But he’s the guy that you wish you could meld into his world, just because he’s that wonderful a person. He has such heart. He’s not perfect, he’s got his flaws, but where it matters most, he is. This made it so easy for me to connect with Kate. Because I get it.
Evan has this great family, and normal life, where as Kate’s family and her social standing just doesn’t quite measure up, ya know. I felt for her, the non-existent support from her parents. It’s heart breaking, but real. When I was in high school I told my parents I wanted to go to college. They laughed and told me that I would work a crap job in a factory or something like normal people. Everything I did in my HS career that I was proud of, was sneered upon by them. So Kate and I, we have a lot in common. I shed a few tears for her and that’s rare.
You wouldn’t think that kind of treatment would mold your adult life, but it does. You push people away because you don’t want the disappointment. You push people away because you don’t feel you’re good enough. I still struggle with that sometimes. A laugh out loud moment for me was when Evan and Kate pull up to his parent’s house. This perfect little cape-cod style house. It was like going back in time meeting my husband’s parents, same style house and all.
There is more to their relationship than just her insecurities though. You know how you wonder in Bouquet toss what this bitch Kate did to Evan to make him so bitter about love? Well you get all of your answers here. You get the full story. From when they first met, which I loved because you really got a feel for how much they love each other.
Going into this I was nervous, but Brown pulled it out and made me a fan this time around. I’ll be anxiously waiting to see what she comes out with next! If you enjoyed Bouquet Toss, you will most likely love Champagne Toast. If you didn’t, you might still like this one so I urge you to give it a whirl! Plus, it’s free to borrow on Amazon for prime members. You bet I took advantage of that!
---------------------------------------------
First can I just say I dislike this cover? He looks like he’s trying to make out with that napkin, and if that’s his real kissy face, I’m not interested. That’s how my 4 year old kisses. Sure he’s probably just wiping his mouth, but no need to look like a bloated fish while doing it. Okay, cover rant over. Tee hee.
I did however, really love this book. I was a little Meh about Bouquet Toss. Daphne annoyed me with her constant pining over a Dbag, I just didn’t understand her. It was a character connection problem I think. Champagne Toast posed no problems there for me. I connected with both Evan and Kate on high levels.
Oh, Evan, let us start with him. *sigh* I don’t think Evan is my type. He’s too out going and into all the stuff I’m really not into. But he’s the guy that you wish you could meld into his world, just because he’s that wonderful a person. He has such heart. He’s not perfect, he’s got his flaws, but where it matters most, he is. This made it so easy for me to connect with Kate. Because I get it.
Evan has this great family, and normal life, where as Kate’s family and her social standing just doesn’t quite measure up, ya know. I felt for her, the non-existent support from her parents. It’s heart breaking, but real. When I was in high school I told my parents I wanted to go to college. They laughed and told me that I would work a crap job in a factory or something like normal people. Everything I did in my HS career that I was proud of, was sneered upon by them. So Kate and I, we have a lot in common. I shed a few tears for her and that’s rare.
You wouldn’t think that kind of treatment would mold your adult life, but it does. You push people away because you don’t want the disappointment. You push people away because you don’t feel you’re good enough. I still struggle with that sometimes. A laugh out loud moment for me was when Evan and Kate pull up to his parent’s house. This perfect little cape-cod style house. It was like going back in time meeting my husband’s parents, same style house and all.
There is more to their relationship than just her insecurities though. You know how you wonder in Bouquet toss what this bitch Kate did to Evan to make him so bitter about love? Well you get all of your answers here. You get the full story. From when they first met, which I loved because you really got a feel for how much they love each other.
Going into this I was nervous, but Brown pulled it out and made me a fan this time around. I’ll be anxiously waiting to see what she comes out with next! If you enjoyed Bouquet Toss, you will most likely love Champagne Toast. If you didn’t, you might still like this one so I urge you to give it a whirl! Plus, it’s free to borrow on Amazon for prime members. You bet I took advantage of that!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 203 reviews