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Country Roads #2
Undeniable
Their Love was Undeniable
Grace King knows two things for she loves working at her grandmother's cafe and she loves the hunky town sheriff. She always has. As she bakes him sweet treats, Grace fantasizes about helping him work up an appetite all night long. But whenever she thinks she's finally getting somewhere, he whips out some excuse to escape. Growing up, he never looked twice at her. Now Grace won't rest until she has Jax's undivided attention.
Jaxson Anderson can't deny that his best friend's kid sister is the sexiest woman in Mirabelle, Florida. Unwilling to burden Grace with his painful past, Jax keeps the sassy blonde at arm's length. Yet one heated kiss crumbles all of his carefully built defenses. But when a town secret surfaces, threatening to destroy everything they believe in, can the man who defended Grace from bullies as a child protect her now?
Grace King knows two things for she loves working at her grandmother's cafe and she loves the hunky town sheriff. She always has. As she bakes him sweet treats, Grace fantasizes about helping him work up an appetite all night long. But whenever she thinks she's finally getting somewhere, he whips out some excuse to escape. Growing up, he never looked twice at her. Now Grace won't rest until she has Jax's undivided attention.
Jaxson Anderson can't deny that his best friend's kid sister is the sexiest woman in Mirabelle, Florida. Unwilling to burden Grace with his painful past, Jax keeps the sassy blonde at arm's length. Yet one heated kiss crumbles all of his carefully built defenses. But when a town secret surfaces, threatening to destroy everything they believe in, can the man who defended Grace from bullies as a child protect her now?
400 pages, Paperback
First published October 1, 2013
14 people are currently reading
1011 people want to read
About the author
Shannon Richard
15 books322 followersShannon Richard lives in Tallahassee, FL with her adorable rescue dog Teddy—not that she’s biased or anything. She enjoys experimenting with a new recipe in the kitchen or perfecting an old one, typically done with a glass of Sauvignon Blanc in hand. She has no shame for the amount of reality T.V. she indulges in, listens to entirely too many podcasts, and is now a plant lady.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
February 4, 2015
*3.75 stars*
Full review: http://leaninglights.weebly.com/home/...
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First impressions: I enjoyed this one! It's been about a year since I read Undone so it was nice to catch up with all the characters again. It was a bit dragging at parts but really picked up in the second half and finished strong! :)
Full review: http://leaninglights.weebly.com/home/...
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First impressions: I enjoyed this one! It's been about a year since I read Undone so it was nice to catch up with all the characters again. It was a bit dragging at parts but really picked up in the second half and finished strong! :)
January 20, 2014
I Wanted to Like It
Small town baker Grace King has loved her big brother's best friend Jaxson Anderson since she was a kid. Problem is, Jax has always treated her like a younger sister, protective and caring. That's great and all, but Grace is no longer a child and her feelings for Jax are anything but immature. He's her one and only. He just doesn't know it. Yet.
As a sheriff in the small Gulf Coast town of Mirabelle, Florida, Jax Anderson sees a broad spectrum of the worst in human nature. It's nothing he hasn't seen before, though, considering his violently abusive, drunken father and utterly disinterested mother. If it weren't for the King family, he probably wouldn't have made it as far as he has. And that's why he's always known he's not good enough for his best friend's little sister, Grace, no matter that he can't remember a time when he didn't want her.
He was doing an admirable job of ignoring the want until that accident that almost cost her her life. Since then Jax has been struggling with his control, haunted by what-ifs. Surely that's the only reason he totally snaps his chain with the woman when she pushes his buttons, wrenching the last shred of control out of his hands with a maelstrom of passion. He still knows he doesn't deserve Grace. Still has no doubt she will realize that eventually and leave him. But maybe, just maybe, he can have a little grace in his life before she does.
~*~
I really enjoyed Richard's first book in this series, Undone, and I couldn't wait to get my hands on Jax and Grace's story. That's why it kills me to say that so many things went wrong for me in this one that Undeniable left me...well...undone. From the characters, who I found largely intolerable, to the story, which wavered between boring and extremely frustrating, to the writing, which made me a little nuts in several places, there were just too many things that pushed all the wrong buttons.
The long-suffering, self-sacrificing martyr character type never works for me, and Jax rode the, "We can't be together because I'm not good enough for you," horse until it keeled over dead. It was a refrain that popped up so many times I lost patience with him even before I reached the halfway point of the book.
Honestly, I could never figure out why he was so down on himself. Sure, he has a horrible set of parents and his childhood was traumatic, but only parts of it, because the King family and others took care of him and showed him what love was all about - a fact that is also stressed several times throughout the narrative. He's now a well respected member of the community, has good friends, a good life, and money enough in his pockets to buy his own home. So...not really seeing any real motivation for the I'm-no-good self image. It didn't endear me to him at all. Mostly I just wanted to kick him.
I wish I could say I liked Grace more, but I didn't. Her desperation for Jax and the subsequent heartbroken angst after every single time he pulled the push-me-pull-you act on her was very off-putting. And really, more than once would have been too much, but the number of times she went back to him in a blink after his demons reared their oft-seen heads and he treated her like Kleenex yet again was ridiculous.
Not for nothing, but any man alludes to me as a whore - in public no less - and I don't care how much I love him, he's not going to be climbing back into my bed with just a weak-ass apology. Not without missing a few of his favorite appendages first, anyways. The fact that Grace just accepted his apologies with very little confrontation every time and cozied right back up to the guy didn't make me think too highly of her level of self respect.
Had I liked the main characters more maybe I wouldn't have been so disappointed with the plot of the story, but I was bored through most of it. There were a couple of threads of interest, however. I liked Grace's friend Preston. He had a nice ancillary storyline that added poignancy to the read. I also liked seeing Paige and Brendan again. I love them.
On the other hand, the town biddy was up to her old tricks. I just wish someone would make her a victim of a tragic underwater basket-weaving accident or something, because that bat has to go. She's more than a source of conflict, she's an utterly reprehensible, barely human being and I can't for the life of me figure out why someone hasn't at least sued her for slander. The fact that her behavior continues unchecked is really rubbing me the wrong way. As do the town's bad apples, the trio of terror. They're so over the top ugly that I struggle to believe that their behavior has gone unchecked for so long.
There was an anemic mystery thread surrounding a rash of robberies in town that could have been better developed and incorporated into the storyline, as well. It wasn't a bad idea, but as it was written, it just seemed contrived to put the characters in the position they were in at the climax of the book, and that bothered me. For that matter, I couldn't figure out why what happened in the climax suddenly wakes Jax up when what happened at the end of the previous book didn't seem to.
I wasn't thrilled with the narrative itself, either. It was over-burdened by way too much superfluous information and description. It seemed at times that every single element of a scene was described in minute and unnecessary detail and every ancillary character who was given so much as a mention had their life story and connection to the town detailed to the extreme. And there are a lot of characters mentioned. After a while it all became white noise, and it drowned out the stuff that could have really added to the narrative and the storyline.
There are just too many things about this book that either fell short or didn't work for me. I really enjoyed the first book, so I'm hoping that this was just not a good fit for my reading preferences. I'm not ready to give up on this series just yet. There's obviously something brewing between Grace's friend Mel and Jax's friend Bennett, who caught my eye in the first book. I'm sincerely hoping, though, that Bennett acquits himself better than Jax did here.
Disclosure: An ARC of this book was provided to me by Forever publisher Grand Central Publishing/Hachette Book Group via NetGalley. This rating, review, and all included thoughts and comments are my own.
~*~*~*~
Reviewed for One Good Book Deserves Another.
Small town baker Grace King has loved her big brother's best friend Jaxson Anderson since she was a kid. Problem is, Jax has always treated her like a younger sister, protective and caring. That's great and all, but Grace is no longer a child and her feelings for Jax are anything but immature. He's her one and only. He just doesn't know it. Yet.
As a sheriff in the small Gulf Coast town of Mirabelle, Florida, Jax Anderson sees a broad spectrum of the worst in human nature. It's nothing he hasn't seen before, though, considering his violently abusive, drunken father and utterly disinterested mother. If it weren't for the King family, he probably wouldn't have made it as far as he has. And that's why he's always known he's not good enough for his best friend's little sister, Grace, no matter that he can't remember a time when he didn't want her.
He was doing an admirable job of ignoring the want until that accident that almost cost her her life. Since then Jax has been struggling with his control, haunted by what-ifs. Surely that's the only reason he totally snaps his chain with the woman when she pushes his buttons, wrenching the last shred of control out of his hands with a maelstrom of passion. He still knows he doesn't deserve Grace. Still has no doubt she will realize that eventually and leave him. But maybe, just maybe, he can have a little grace in his life before she does.
~*~
I really enjoyed Richard's first book in this series, Undone, and I couldn't wait to get my hands on Jax and Grace's story. That's why it kills me to say that so many things went wrong for me in this one that Undeniable left me...well...undone. From the characters, who I found largely intolerable, to the story, which wavered between boring and extremely frustrating, to the writing, which made me a little nuts in several places, there were just too many things that pushed all the wrong buttons.
The long-suffering, self-sacrificing martyr character type never works for me, and Jax rode the, "We can't be together because I'm not good enough for you," horse until it keeled over dead. It was a refrain that popped up so many times I lost patience with him even before I reached the halfway point of the book.
Honestly, I could never figure out why he was so down on himself. Sure, he has a horrible set of parents and his childhood was traumatic, but only parts of it, because the King family and others took care of him and showed him what love was all about - a fact that is also stressed several times throughout the narrative. He's now a well respected member of the community, has good friends, a good life, and money enough in his pockets to buy his own home. So...not really seeing any real motivation for the I'm-no-good self image. It didn't endear me to him at all. Mostly I just wanted to kick him.
I wish I could say I liked Grace more, but I didn't. Her desperation for Jax and the subsequent heartbroken angst after every single time he pulled the push-me-pull-you act on her was very off-putting. And really, more than once would have been too much, but the number of times she went back to him in a blink after his demons reared their oft-seen heads and he treated her like Kleenex yet again was ridiculous.
Not for nothing, but any man alludes to me as a whore - in public no less - and I don't care how much I love him, he's not going to be climbing back into my bed with just a weak-ass apology. Not without missing a few of his favorite appendages first, anyways. The fact that Grace just accepted his apologies with very little confrontation every time and cozied right back up to the guy didn't make me think too highly of her level of self respect.
Had I liked the main characters more maybe I wouldn't have been so disappointed with the plot of the story, but I was bored through most of it. There were a couple of threads of interest, however. I liked Grace's friend Preston. He had a nice ancillary storyline that added poignancy to the read. I also liked seeing Paige and Brendan again. I love them.
On the other hand, the town biddy was up to her old tricks. I just wish someone would make her a victim of a tragic underwater basket-weaving accident or something, because that bat has to go. She's more than a source of conflict, she's an utterly reprehensible, barely human being and I can't for the life of me figure out why someone hasn't at least sued her for slander. The fact that her behavior continues unchecked is really rubbing me the wrong way. As do the town's bad apples, the trio of terror. They're so over the top ugly that I struggle to believe that their behavior has gone unchecked for so long.
There was an anemic mystery thread surrounding a rash of robberies in town that could have been better developed and incorporated into the storyline, as well. It wasn't a bad idea, but as it was written, it just seemed contrived to put the characters in the position they were in at the climax of the book, and that bothered me. For that matter, I couldn't figure out why what happened in the climax suddenly wakes Jax up when what happened at the end of the previous book didn't seem to.
I wasn't thrilled with the narrative itself, either. It was over-burdened by way too much superfluous information and description. It seemed at times that every single element of a scene was described in minute and unnecessary detail and every ancillary character who was given so much as a mention had their life story and connection to the town detailed to the extreme. And there are a lot of characters mentioned. After a while it all became white noise, and it drowned out the stuff that could have really added to the narrative and the storyline.
There are just too many things about this book that either fell short or didn't work for me. I really enjoyed the first book, so I'm hoping that this was just not a good fit for my reading preferences. I'm not ready to give up on this series just yet. There's obviously something brewing between Grace's friend Mel and Jax's friend Bennett, who caught my eye in the first book. I'm sincerely hoping, though, that Bennett acquits himself better than Jax did here.
Disclosure: An ARC of this book was provided to me by Forever publisher Grand Central Publishing/Hachette Book Group via NetGalley. This rating, review, and all included thoughts and comments are my own.
~*~*~*~
Reviewed for One Good Book Deserves Another.
June 29, 2017
June 2017 reread: still in looooove
July 21, 2014
I fell in love with Shannon Richard's first novel Undone and have been dying to get my hands on another one of her novels. With such a sweet romance and lovable characters, I could not stop reading. So when Undeniable was finally released in paperback, I knew I had to get my hands on it!
Grace has been in love with Jax for as long as she can remember. But at 24-years-old, Grace still has not revealed her feelings, and every relationship she's ever been in could never live up to her feelings for Jax. And what makes it worse is that Jax is always around as someone Grace can never have. As the town sherif, Jax constantly stops by the cafe Grace works in and has been protecting Grace ever since she was a kid. Recently, though, Jax has been seeing Grace as more than his best friend's kid sister. But can Grace handle his scared past and show him that he really can be loved?
I shouldn't be surprised, but I absolutely loved this book. Seriously. We got to see the sexual tension between Grace and Jax in Undone, but that doesn't even begin to compare to the passion and chemistry they have in this book. The minute we met Grace, I was instantly connected to her and how hopelessly in love with Jax she was. Grace is such a sweet girl and uses baking as a way to relieve her stress, which only made her even more endearing. Grace's adorable personality made it very clear why she was the only one who can make the serious Jax crack a smile. With such a strong history between those two, the moment they finally got together made the experience that much more powerful.
I absolutely loved Jax and how protective he was of Grace. From the very first page, Jax has been protecting Grace from the evils of the world, whether they were bullies on the playground or life-threatening situations. No matter how strongly he felt for her, though, Jax had some serious issues with his family and had a hard time letting people in, especially Grace. He'd grown up thinking he could never be good enough, so he thought Grace can do so much better than him. My heart ached every time Jax would put himself down just because other people put him down, because he was so much more than that. Jax was so strong and what girl wouldn't want a hunky sherif protecting her every minute of the day?
Not only was the romance passionate, but there was also a little mystery behind who was breaking into businesses around town and threading the safety of the residents of the town. Jax and Grace definitely go through a roller coaster of emotions and things only get even more intense when danger crosses their path. I would definitely recommend Shannon's Country Roads series to any contemporary romance fans who has a soft spot for small town romances. While I'm sad that we won't be getting Shep's story in the next novel, I can't wait to get even more of this small town romance with characters who have completely stolen my heart.
Grace has been in love with Jax for as long as she can remember. But at 24-years-old, Grace still has not revealed her feelings, and every relationship she's ever been in could never live up to her feelings for Jax. And what makes it worse is that Jax is always around as someone Grace can never have. As the town sherif, Jax constantly stops by the cafe Grace works in and has been protecting Grace ever since she was a kid. Recently, though, Jax has been seeing Grace as more than his best friend's kid sister. But can Grace handle his scared past and show him that he really can be loved?
I shouldn't be surprised, but I absolutely loved this book. Seriously. We got to see the sexual tension between Grace and Jax in Undone, but that doesn't even begin to compare to the passion and chemistry they have in this book. The minute we met Grace, I was instantly connected to her and how hopelessly in love with Jax she was. Grace is such a sweet girl and uses baking as a way to relieve her stress, which only made her even more endearing. Grace's adorable personality made it very clear why she was the only one who can make the serious Jax crack a smile. With such a strong history between those two, the moment they finally got together made the experience that much more powerful.
I absolutely loved Jax and how protective he was of Grace. From the very first page, Jax has been protecting Grace from the evils of the world, whether they were bullies on the playground or life-threatening situations. No matter how strongly he felt for her, though, Jax had some serious issues with his family and had a hard time letting people in, especially Grace. He'd grown up thinking he could never be good enough, so he thought Grace can do so much better than him. My heart ached every time Jax would put himself down just because other people put him down, because he was so much more than that. Jax was so strong and what girl wouldn't want a hunky sherif protecting her every minute of the day?
Not only was the romance passionate, but there was also a little mystery behind who was breaking into businesses around town and threading the safety of the residents of the town. Jax and Grace definitely go through a roller coaster of emotions and things only get even more intense when danger crosses their path. I would definitely recommend Shannon's Country Roads series to any contemporary romance fans who has a soft spot for small town romances. While I'm sad that we won't be getting Shep's story in the next novel, I can't wait to get even more of this small town romance with characters who have completely stolen my heart.
December 17, 2013
*I received an ARC courtesy of Forever (Grand Central Publishing), via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review*
3 1/2 stars
This is the story about Grace King and Jaxson Anderson. Jaxson was the boy Grace always loved and wanted to be with ever since he stood up for her on the playground years ago. Jaxson has always wanted Grace but refuses to act on his feelings. He's not good enough, that's what his father told him everyday growing up and he can't imagine how he'd be enough for someone so amazing as Grace. The problem is he can't stomach her with anyone else. When his willpower gets tested and the rumor mill starts, all they ever beleived in will be tested.
Undeniable is a romance story of a small town with realistic characters. For me, the story could have been cut in half and it held my attention a little better though. I really had to bump it down half a star because it just got excessively wordy, with too many details at times regarding the surroundings. While it painted a very thorough picture it became monotonous. Besides that we meet two great characters that come alive off the pages, surrounded by a compilation of side characters that add variety and another outlook to the progression of the story. The small town of Mirabelle, Florida is described in detail leaving the reader feeling like they just came back from a vacation there. As far as light hearted romances go this one hits all the marks.
3 1/2 stars
This is the story about Grace King and Jaxson Anderson. Jaxson was the boy Grace always loved and wanted to be with ever since he stood up for her on the playground years ago. Jaxson has always wanted Grace but refuses to act on his feelings. He's not good enough, that's what his father told him everyday growing up and he can't imagine how he'd be enough for someone so amazing as Grace. The problem is he can't stomach her with anyone else. When his willpower gets tested and the rumor mill starts, all they ever beleived in will be tested.
Undeniable is a romance story of a small town with realistic characters. For me, the story could have been cut in half and it held my attention a little better though. I really had to bump it down half a star because it just got excessively wordy, with too many details at times regarding the surroundings. While it painted a very thorough picture it became monotonous. Besides that we meet two great characters that come alive off the pages, surrounded by a compilation of side characters that add variety and another outlook to the progression of the story. The small town of Mirabelle, Florida is described in detail leaving the reader feeling like they just came back from a vacation there. As far as light hearted romances go this one hits all the marks.
March 2, 2014
Undeniable is the second book in the Country Roads series but each book can be read as a standalone. However I should warn you if you read this book before the first one it does have some spoilers for Undone (Book one).
Grace has been in love with Jaxson ever since they were kids. Jaxson, however, treats her like a little sister and she is beginning to realize it is time to move on with her life. Jax seems to sense this because he begins to show interest in Grace.
The two struggle with both internal and external forces that are determined to keep them apart.
I absolutely adored Grace. I had moments were I was extremely frustrated with Jax and his insecurities. I really lost patience with the "I'm not good enough for you" theme this story had almost all the way to the end.
I think this book suffered from the terrible second book syndrome. There were too many subplots going on in the background, and they took the focus away from the main plot. Especially the subplot involving the town bullies, it seemed to take over the story.
Overall I did enjoy this book. I probably would have rated it higher if the execution of the plot had been cleaner.
Grace has been in love with Jaxson ever since they were kids. Jaxson, however, treats her like a little sister and she is beginning to realize it is time to move on with her life. Jax seems to sense this because he begins to show interest in Grace.
The two struggle with both internal and external forces that are determined to keep them apart.
I absolutely adored Grace. I had moments were I was extremely frustrated with Jax and his insecurities. I really lost patience with the "I'm not good enough for you" theme this story had almost all the way to the end.
I think this book suffered from the terrible second book syndrome. There were too many subplots going on in the background, and they took the focus away from the main plot. Especially the subplot involving the town bullies, it seemed to take over the story.
Overall I did enjoy this book. I probably would have rated it higher if the execution of the plot had been cleaner.
October 1, 2013
Jax, he needs to get some things rolling where he and Ms. Grace are concerned, "no. He'd come here to see her. He always came here to see her. But coffee was a legitimate enough excuse, especially since he hadn't gotten that much sleep and was at the beginning of another twelve-hour shift." He does care for her but the way he grew up he doesn't think he's good enough, and you know a man is good enough when he doesn't think he's good enough because he's thinking about you, "if there was anything that brought Jax to his knees, it was Grace crying." Yea...his thoughts were such a guy's thoughts, "holy s***, his hands were on Grace's a**. Her perfect, incredible a**." When he gets his head out of his a** he gets possessive, "I'm your person, Grace. Me, not anyone else," he said, stepping into her apartment." He's considerate, "because if we don't stop, I'm going to have sex with you right here. Up against this wall. With your grandmother and a room full of customers in the next room." The book was cute and there was some steam but something was missing and I'm not sure what it was.
June 13, 2014
I was lucky enough to win and receive this book through GoodReads FirstReads Giveaway Program. Thank you!
I love these type of romance books- 'my best friends sister' theme. Grace has always loved Jax. He always had feelings for her too but never acted on them. I loved when she finally told him how she felt. He needed someone to care and love him since his dad was a jerk.
I loved this book and the romance!! I'm definitely going to be reading all the books in this series!
I love these type of romance books- 'my best friends sister' theme. Grace has always loved Jax. He always had feelings for her too but never acted on them. I loved when she finally told him how she felt. He needed someone to care and love him since his dad was a jerk.
I loved this book and the romance!! I'm definitely going to be reading all the books in this series!
August 13, 2015
3.5 stars
March 23, 2018
SO GOOD!!!!!!!!!! Do yourself a favor-- MUST READ!
October 7, 2013
Review courtesy of Dark Faerie Tales.
Quick & Dirty: Fun contemporary book filled with lots of drama, steamy scenes, loveable characters, and laugh out loud moments. I would highly recommend this series to fans of New Adult contemporary novels.
Opening Sentence: At six years old there were certain things Grace King didn’t understand.
The Review:
There are lots of things that Grace King doesn’t know. She has no idea who her father is. She doesn’t know why her mother had to die of breast cancer when Grace was only five years old. She doesn’t understand why people in a small town can gossip so much especially about Grace and her family. So yes, there are plenty of things Grace doesn’t know, but there are two things she has perfect clarity on. First she loves to bake and work at her grandmother’s café. The second thing she knows without a doubt is that she has been undeniably in love with Jaxon Andrews since she was 6 years old. He has been her protector and saint most of her life, but he just sees her as more of a little sister. She is tired of waiting for him to notice her and it’s about time she does something about it.
Deputy Jaxon Andrews has never felt at home anywhere in his life. He grew up with a very abusive father that was either drunk or high all the time. His father drilled into his head that he was unwanted and his biggest mistake he ever made in his life. Jax’s mom never stood up for him and most of the time she just completely ignored him. The only place he felt safe was at his two best friend’s home, Brendan King and Nathanial Shepherd. He spent as much time as he could at their places to avoid having to go home. To become nothing like his father, Jax decided to become a cop to try and make a difference in the world. But there are some scars that just never go away and Jax has a past full of them. He has had a thing for Brendan’s little sister for a while now, but he knows that he will never be good enough for her. Jax can only deny his feelings for so long, but can he ever open up and really allow himself to love someone? Or will his past come back to haunt him and destroy his one chance at true love?
Grace is one of those girls that you are totally jealous of, but you can’t help but love her. Not only is she gorgeous with blond hair and blue eyes, she is also a total sweetheart. She has had to take a lot of crap from people over the years, but it has made her tough. She also has a huge heart and is a very caring person. She has mad cooking skills and a very charming personality. She can be funny and playful, and she’s not afraid to speak her mind. She is also a very patient girl, I mean she has been waiting for Jax to open his eyes and see what is standing right in front of him for years now. I loved her character and found her very easy to connect with.
Jax is the brooding hot guy that is a genuinely good person. With his reddish brown hair and dreamy green eyes he’s definitely not hard to look at, but the boy inside is very broken. I respect that Jax became something when he came from such a rough childhood. He has let some of his scars handicap him at times but he keeps trying everyday to better himself and his community. He is a really great guy and he deserves some happiness. He has been protecting Grace ever since she was a little kid, but when she turned 18 his brotherly feelings for her started to change. Now he doesn’t know what to do, he knows that he isn’t good enough for her, but he can’t keep denying how much he wants her. I instantly fell for Jax and loved reading his story.
This was a great read for me. Once I picked it up, I couldn’t put it down. The plot was very predictable, I figured out pretty much everything fairly early in the book, but that didn’t make it any less entertaining. With the laughable moments, crazy drama, and the steamy scenes, this book was defiantly enjoyable. The cast of characters are very relatable and easy to love, you see some of the familiar faces from the first book in the series and there are some new characters introduced as well. I loved the romance, for me it was developed perfectly and was so sweet. Also, I loved the cover for this book, it’s simple but I thought it was cute and really fit the book. I personally enjoyed Undeniable slightly better than Undone but both are very enjoyable reads. While the books complement each other, you could read either of them as a standalone if you would like. I’m eagerly awaiting the next book in the series. I’m not sure whose story it is but I have a few ideas. I would highly recommend this to anyone that is looking for a sweet love story, with some steamy moments and lots of drama.
Notable Scene:
THE GRIM TRUTH
NO ONE’S GOING TO BUY THE COW…
Little CoQuette has been a topic of conversation for years around Mirabelle. They mystery of who exactly her father is has been discussed in a wide variety of circles, but that secret has yet to be revealed. Her mother, Jeze Belle, took that to her grave. Probably for the best, if as it’s suspected, said father is a married man that the late home wrecker had set her sights on. But with two children from different daddies, what else could be expected?
If CoQuette learned one thing from her mother, it was how to entice men. Just last night she made an attempt to get in good with the law, or the law’s pants. CoQuette showed up at our local watering hole, the Den of Iniquity, with her hooker shoes and her negligible breasts on display. Apparently, Deputy Ginger took notice though, because the two were seen out on the dance floor right before CoQuette stormed off is a fit of passion. Lovers’ quarrel? Maybe.
Deputy Ginger has never been one to stand out in a crowd. Growing up in a family of meager means and affections he’s been more of a standing in the shadows kind of guy. Probably, because if you can’t be found then your drunken father can’t beat you. But those shadows haven’t hid him from the likes of Little CoQuette. Oh no, she’s noticed him just fine. And thanks to her, so have a number of other towns people.
Deputy Ginger was seen running around downtown this morning with handprints on his derriere. And what might you ask were those handprints made by? Well, according to our more than delighted eyewitnesses, because let’s face it Deputy Ginger has a mighty fine caboose, those handprints were slapped on with flour. And where else could those flour handprints have originated but the Illegitimate Buns where CoQuette whips up her sinful concoctions. I just wonder if Deputy Ginger got a free glass of milk with his slice of cherry pie this morning.
FTC Advisory: Forever Yours/Hachette provided me with a copy of Undeniable. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
Quick & Dirty: Fun contemporary book filled with lots of drama, steamy scenes, loveable characters, and laugh out loud moments. I would highly recommend this series to fans of New Adult contemporary novels.
Opening Sentence: At six years old there were certain things Grace King didn’t understand.
The Review:
There are lots of things that Grace King doesn’t know. She has no idea who her father is. She doesn’t know why her mother had to die of breast cancer when Grace was only five years old. She doesn’t understand why people in a small town can gossip so much especially about Grace and her family. So yes, there are plenty of things Grace doesn’t know, but there are two things she has perfect clarity on. First she loves to bake and work at her grandmother’s café. The second thing she knows without a doubt is that she has been undeniably in love with Jaxon Andrews since she was 6 years old. He has been her protector and saint most of her life, but he just sees her as more of a little sister. She is tired of waiting for him to notice her and it’s about time she does something about it.
Deputy Jaxon Andrews has never felt at home anywhere in his life. He grew up with a very abusive father that was either drunk or high all the time. His father drilled into his head that he was unwanted and his biggest mistake he ever made in his life. Jax’s mom never stood up for him and most of the time she just completely ignored him. The only place he felt safe was at his two best friend’s home, Brendan King and Nathanial Shepherd. He spent as much time as he could at their places to avoid having to go home. To become nothing like his father, Jax decided to become a cop to try and make a difference in the world. But there are some scars that just never go away and Jax has a past full of them. He has had a thing for Brendan’s little sister for a while now, but he knows that he will never be good enough for her. Jax can only deny his feelings for so long, but can he ever open up and really allow himself to love someone? Or will his past come back to haunt him and destroy his one chance at true love?
Grace is one of those girls that you are totally jealous of, but you can’t help but love her. Not only is she gorgeous with blond hair and blue eyes, she is also a total sweetheart. She has had to take a lot of crap from people over the years, but it has made her tough. She also has a huge heart and is a very caring person. She has mad cooking skills and a very charming personality. She can be funny and playful, and she’s not afraid to speak her mind. She is also a very patient girl, I mean she has been waiting for Jax to open his eyes and see what is standing right in front of him for years now. I loved her character and found her very easy to connect with.
Jax is the brooding hot guy that is a genuinely good person. With his reddish brown hair and dreamy green eyes he’s definitely not hard to look at, but the boy inside is very broken. I respect that Jax became something when he came from such a rough childhood. He has let some of his scars handicap him at times but he keeps trying everyday to better himself and his community. He is a really great guy and he deserves some happiness. He has been protecting Grace ever since she was a little kid, but when she turned 18 his brotherly feelings for her started to change. Now he doesn’t know what to do, he knows that he isn’t good enough for her, but he can’t keep denying how much he wants her. I instantly fell for Jax and loved reading his story.
This was a great read for me. Once I picked it up, I couldn’t put it down. The plot was very predictable, I figured out pretty much everything fairly early in the book, but that didn’t make it any less entertaining. With the laughable moments, crazy drama, and the steamy scenes, this book was defiantly enjoyable. The cast of characters are very relatable and easy to love, you see some of the familiar faces from the first book in the series and there are some new characters introduced as well. I loved the romance, for me it was developed perfectly and was so sweet. Also, I loved the cover for this book, it’s simple but I thought it was cute and really fit the book. I personally enjoyed Undeniable slightly better than Undone but both are very enjoyable reads. While the books complement each other, you could read either of them as a standalone if you would like. I’m eagerly awaiting the next book in the series. I’m not sure whose story it is but I have a few ideas. I would highly recommend this to anyone that is looking for a sweet love story, with some steamy moments and lots of drama.
Notable Scene:
THE GRIM TRUTH
NO ONE’S GOING TO BUY THE COW…
Little CoQuette has been a topic of conversation for years around Mirabelle. They mystery of who exactly her father is has been discussed in a wide variety of circles, but that secret has yet to be revealed. Her mother, Jeze Belle, took that to her grave. Probably for the best, if as it’s suspected, said father is a married man that the late home wrecker had set her sights on. But with two children from different daddies, what else could be expected?
If CoQuette learned one thing from her mother, it was how to entice men. Just last night she made an attempt to get in good with the law, or the law’s pants. CoQuette showed up at our local watering hole, the Den of Iniquity, with her hooker shoes and her negligible breasts on display. Apparently, Deputy Ginger took notice though, because the two were seen out on the dance floor right before CoQuette stormed off is a fit of passion. Lovers’ quarrel? Maybe.
Deputy Ginger has never been one to stand out in a crowd. Growing up in a family of meager means and affections he’s been more of a standing in the shadows kind of guy. Probably, because if you can’t be found then your drunken father can’t beat you. But those shadows haven’t hid him from the likes of Little CoQuette. Oh no, she’s noticed him just fine. And thanks to her, so have a number of other towns people.
Deputy Ginger was seen running around downtown this morning with handprints on his derriere. And what might you ask were those handprints made by? Well, according to our more than delighted eyewitnesses, because let’s face it Deputy Ginger has a mighty fine caboose, those handprints were slapped on with flour. And where else could those flour handprints have originated but the Illegitimate Buns where CoQuette whips up her sinful concoctions. I just wonder if Deputy Ginger got a free glass of milk with his slice of cherry pie this morning.
FTC Advisory: Forever Yours/Hachette provided me with a copy of Undeniable. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
February 6, 2018
After finishing the roller-coaster that was Undone, I decided to take a break before reading undeniable because I was pretty sure I wouldn't be able to put it down, much like undone before it.
And I was right... Undeniable was one of the most intense, frustrating, yet endearing and romantic love stories I've read in a long time. Jax and Grace's love story was pretty perfect. I never rooted for a couple as much as I rooted for these two. Jax was stubborn, self-depreciating and very insecure, that doesn't stop him from being extremely sexy, hot and pretty perfect in every way possible. And Grace, Sweet, cute Grace, was the epitome of the perfect southern gal. I loved both of these together.
Warning: You'll find yourself wanting to punch Jax in the face several times while you're reading, you'll also be cursing him several times because he's afraid. You might get the overwhelming need to throw the book away in frustration
BUT...Trust me, you won;t regret reading this. If you're into steamy love stories with sexy males as main characters and couples that make you weak in the knees, this is the book for you..
And I was right... Undeniable was one of the most intense, frustrating, yet endearing and romantic love stories I've read in a long time. Jax and Grace's love story was pretty perfect. I never rooted for a couple as much as I rooted for these two. Jax was stubborn, self-depreciating and very insecure, that doesn't stop him from being extremely sexy, hot and pretty perfect in every way possible. And Grace, Sweet, cute Grace, was the epitome of the perfect southern gal. I loved both of these together.
Warning: You'll find yourself wanting to punch Jax in the face several times while you're reading, you'll also be cursing him several times because he's afraid. You might get the overwhelming need to throw the book away in frustration
BUT...Trust me, you won;t regret reading this. If you're into steamy love stories with sexy males as main characters and couples that make you weak in the knees, this is the book for you..
December 14, 2021
both have daddy issues
and the plot goes like this
mutual years-long pinning
he is her brother best friend
she makes the first move
he gets mad
they kiss
he rejects her
she gets mad
he thinks he is not good enough
everyone yells at him to stop being stupid
they make up
have sex
all is good
she tells him she loves him
he rejects her
he still feels she deserves better
she is heartbroken
everyone yells at him to stop being stupid
then epiphany tadaaa he does love her too
they make up
the end
there is obviously some other stuff because why not
this didn't help me to start liking brother's best friend trope
and the plot goes like this
mutual years-long pinning
he is her brother best friend
she makes the first move
he gets mad
they kiss
he rejects her
she gets mad
he thinks he is not good enough
everyone yells at him to stop being stupid
they make up
have sex
all is good
she tells him she loves him
he rejects her
he still feels she deserves better
she is heartbroken
everyone yells at him to stop being stupid
then epiphany tadaaa he does love her too
they make up
the end
there is obviously some other stuff because why not
this didn't help me to start liking brother's best friend trope
March 14, 2020
Shannon Richard has done it again!! Another heart-warming love story that makes you feel like you’re part of the story. I love how this story somehow pick up where Undone left off only focusing on another couple while also keeping the characters you fell in love with in Undone part of the picture! I love the mystery, the friendships, the steam, and of course the love! Well done!
May 2, 2016
Review originally posted at Ramblings From This Chick
I really wanted to love this one. Going into Undeniable I had such high hopes. Not only is this one of my favorite tropes (Guy falls for best friend's little sister!) but I had read Undone and fell in love with Jax and Grace in that book along with their friend Shep. I was really looking forward to seeing Jax and Grace get over themselves and watching them fall in love. Unfortunately for me, despite Jax and Grace being likable characters who do eventually get their HEA, this book just didn't work for me. Undeniable is the second book in the Country Roads series, but it can be read as a standalone.
Jax is a small town deputy who has grown up with some crappy parents. He grew up being told that he was worthless and wasn't good enough. He formed a friendship a group of guys young and their families did their best to take him in and give him as much as they could. From the time Grace was born, Jax made it his job to look out for and protect her. Not only because she was Brendan's little sister, but also because he always had a connection to her. Grace fell in love with him very young and wanted nothing more than to be his. Jax wanted Grace too, but felt he wasn't good enough for her and forced himself to stay away. Things come to a head though after the two share a passionate kiss. Jax still doesn't think he is good enough for her though and continues to try to push her away. As time goes on, they both realize that their feelings are only getting stronger for each other now that they know what it is like to be more than friends. But can they possibly be together when Jax continues to think that Grace deserves better?
I liked Grace from Undone, but I really loved her in Undeniable. She is spunky, fun and sweet. Despite growing up as the subject of a lot of town gossip, she never let it really get her down. She wasn't afraid to live her life and be who she was. I loved what a great friend she was and it was really cute how all the guys looked after her. She was just so sweet, and I thought it was great that she was always looking out for Jax and making sure he was fed and taken care of. I liked Jax. He was perfect for Grace, even if he couldn't see it. I loved how he wanted to protect her and make sure that she was always happy. He was sexy and they had a lot of chemistry together. One of the things I didn't care for about them though was the back and forth. I just felt like it was a little too much. It got to the point that it just felt like the author was almost forcing the drama and it just didn't seem as though what was happening was how things would naturally happen. I just kept waiting for them to wake up and it took way too long for that to happen.
I felt like the robbery subplot was extremely drawn out. I found myself wanting to skim several parts because I just didn't really care what was happening with it. This whole book felt like it could have been shortened and you wouldn't really miss anything. There were parts that just absolutely drug and I think that really just took me out of the story. I felt like I was forcing myself to continue reading at points as there was so much going on. For me, there were times when the book seemed to have absolutely nothing to do with our hero or heroine and I think that just really took away all my interest in this story. There were just too many things happening, and quite a few were about random characters. I also think that there were too many characters being mentioned, and that was really confusing at times. Not only that, but I felt as though I didn't really care about the extra characters with a few exceptions. I was really hoping to enjoy this story and that we would get the trope with an original spin on things. But for me, this was just the same thing with different characters in a different town. I found the story to be predictable and most of the characters to be the stereotype you would normally find in a small town.
Overall, this story was not what I was hoping for. I felt like there could have been so much more done with these characters and there was so much promise going into this one. But unfortunately it just fell flat for me. The next story in this series, Unstoppable is Bennett and Mel's story and I wish I was more excited to read about them. I just don't seem to be that interested in getting to know either of them better. I was hoping that we would get Shep's story next, as I really love his character. I think that there are plenty of small town romance fans that will probably like this story better than I did. For me though once I sort of lost the connection to Jax and Grace, it sort of just killed the whole story for me. I am not sure if I will read any more of this series except for Shep's story. But I really hope that the rest in this series focus more on the main characters, with less of the random small town people that really don't have anything to do with the story. I think it just detracts from the story and really sort of makes the reader lose interest.
**ARC provided by NetGalley**
I really wanted to love this one. Going into Undeniable I had such high hopes. Not only is this one of my favorite tropes (Guy falls for best friend's little sister!) but I had read Undone and fell in love with Jax and Grace in that book along with their friend Shep. I was really looking forward to seeing Jax and Grace get over themselves and watching them fall in love. Unfortunately for me, despite Jax and Grace being likable characters who do eventually get their HEA, this book just didn't work for me. Undeniable is the second book in the Country Roads series, but it can be read as a standalone.
Jax is a small town deputy who has grown up with some crappy parents. He grew up being told that he was worthless and wasn't good enough. He formed a friendship a group of guys young and their families did their best to take him in and give him as much as they could. From the time Grace was born, Jax made it his job to look out for and protect her. Not only because she was Brendan's little sister, but also because he always had a connection to her. Grace fell in love with him very young and wanted nothing more than to be his. Jax wanted Grace too, but felt he wasn't good enough for her and forced himself to stay away. Things come to a head though after the two share a passionate kiss. Jax still doesn't think he is good enough for her though and continues to try to push her away. As time goes on, they both realize that their feelings are only getting stronger for each other now that they know what it is like to be more than friends. But can they possibly be together when Jax continues to think that Grace deserves better?
I liked Grace from Undone, but I really loved her in Undeniable. She is spunky, fun and sweet. Despite growing up as the subject of a lot of town gossip, she never let it really get her down. She wasn't afraid to live her life and be who she was. I loved what a great friend she was and it was really cute how all the guys looked after her. She was just so sweet, and I thought it was great that she was always looking out for Jax and making sure he was fed and taken care of. I liked Jax. He was perfect for Grace, even if he couldn't see it. I loved how he wanted to protect her and make sure that she was always happy. He was sexy and they had a lot of chemistry together. One of the things I didn't care for about them though was the back and forth. I just felt like it was a little too much. It got to the point that it just felt like the author was almost forcing the drama and it just didn't seem as though what was happening was how things would naturally happen. I just kept waiting for them to wake up and it took way too long for that to happen.
I felt like the robbery subplot was extremely drawn out. I found myself wanting to skim several parts because I just didn't really care what was happening with it. This whole book felt like it could have been shortened and you wouldn't really miss anything. There were parts that just absolutely drug and I think that really just took me out of the story. I felt like I was forcing myself to continue reading at points as there was so much going on. For me, there were times when the book seemed to have absolutely nothing to do with our hero or heroine and I think that just really took away all my interest in this story. There were just too many things happening, and quite a few were about random characters. I also think that there were too many characters being mentioned, and that was really confusing at times. Not only that, but I felt as though I didn't really care about the extra characters with a few exceptions. I was really hoping to enjoy this story and that we would get the trope with an original spin on things. But for me, this was just the same thing with different characters in a different town. I found the story to be predictable and most of the characters to be the stereotype you would normally find in a small town.
Overall, this story was not what I was hoping for. I felt like there could have been so much more done with these characters and there was so much promise going into this one. But unfortunately it just fell flat for me. The next story in this series, Unstoppable is Bennett and Mel's story and I wish I was more excited to read about them. I just don't seem to be that interested in getting to know either of them better. I was hoping that we would get Shep's story next, as I really love his character. I think that there are plenty of small town romance fans that will probably like this story better than I did. For me though once I sort of lost the connection to Jax and Grace, it sort of just killed the whole story for me. I am not sure if I will read any more of this series except for Shep's story. But I really hope that the rest in this series focus more on the main characters, with less of the random small town people that really don't have anything to do with the story. I think it just detracts from the story and really sort of makes the reader lose interest.
**ARC provided by NetGalley**
Currently reading
July 2, 2019Absolutely love this series!! I've been searching for this book everywhere actually. So happy to read it now!
September 7, 2024
Loved this series and read it multiple times. This was my favorite of the series.
October 2, 2013
First note, I did not read the first book in the series, yet. Yet being the key word. That said I would say there is a small spoiler of something that happens in the first book in the beginning of Undeniable. The fact that Brendan and Paige get together is not surprising and I don't think this spoiler will change anything for me reading the book, I will just know one thing that happens. So you can start with Undone or read Undeniable as a standalone.
Next I'll start with the Prologue. Oh my gosh, how darling and it really sets the stage for the rest of the book. I was hooked right from the beginning. I loved Grace, she's smart, she's independent, but she knows just who she wants for her man even though she thinks she can't get him to see her as anything but a little sister. Oh and she's an awesome baker and an amazing friend. What is there not to love about her. Jax is equally awesome. He's good-looking, a hard worker and trying desperately to outrun his past and his Dad. He also hasn't been thinking of Grace as a sister (Brendan is his best friend and Grace's brother) since she was about 18. However he's a little harder to convince that he's good enough for Grace. There are other key player, of course Brendan and Paige factor in. There are Grace's friends, Harper, Mel and Preston. There is Shep the third in the trio that have been friends since forever (Brendan, Jax and Shep). And briefly I must talk about Shep who I am guessing gets the next book. Now Brendan and Jax are good-looking, but I am definitely intrigued by Shep and he sounds hot as evidenced by this quote:
Out of the three of them, Shep was most definitely the bad boy of the group. Tattoos were scattered across both of his arms and forearms. He had perpetual scruff on his wide, chiseled jaw and above his lips, which were usually quirked up in a smile. He had the darkest blue eyes that Grace had ever seen on a man and thick wavy black hair that was always shaggy and rumpled.
I can't wait to read more about him. And to round out the men there is Bennett a construction worker who was once in the service, and I hope to learn more about him as well. There is family, Jax's awful Dad, Grace and Brendan's wonderful grandparents. And finally there are the bad guys who have always been around Hoyt, Judson and Chad plus the nasty gossip blogger Bethelda Grimshaw. So with this wonderful cast of good and bad characters where can you go wrong?
As far as plot, it moves along well. Jax and Grace's on-again, off-again relationship being the main driving factor along with some breakins that Jax is investigating. There are some incredibly funny moments like this conversation with Shep early in the book:
"So it was a good talk then?"
No, the talking hadn't been good. Every time Jax had opened his mouth he'd said something stupid. Who was he kidding? Everything he'd done with his mouth had been stupid.
Incredible? Yes. But also incredibly stupid.
"Is there a point to this?" Jax asked.
"Yeah. Two of them as a matter of fact and they're on your ass."
"What?"
"You've got some nice Grace-sized handprints."
"Shit," Jax said wiping his hands vigorously on the back of his pants.
"It's on the back of your shirt, too, and on your collar. You two roll around in flour or something?."
But more than that, Undeniable tackles some issues not in tons of detail, but enough to bring them to your attention. And I love how it does that while still being a romance novel. Some of the things it brings to the forefront are hate crimes, child abuse, bullying, homosexuality, losing a parent at early age and not even knowing who your father is. This is a light and fluffy book, but then again it isn't. Ms. Richards finds the perfect balance to deal with issues while still keeping the focus on Jax and Grace.
I would say the only thing that really bothered me about this book was Jax's struggle. Sometimes I wanted to beat him over the head. But I realize he had to have it to grow and for the book to move and him to finally come to his senses. Though it frustrated me, I thoroughly enjoyed the book.
Ms. Richards weaves a wonderful tale of a community of friends who will do anything to protect each other. And with a wonderful lesson that sometimes your family is not blood-related but those who have surrounded you, loved you and cared for you all along.
Sometimes blood wasn't the strongest bond. Sometimes your friends were your real family.
It's a beautiful book with a great romance and I can't wait to go back and read Undone and be drawn in by more of Ms. Richards magic. And I'm all set for Unstoppable, the third book in the Country Roads series as well! I love small town novels and this is quickly becoming one of my favorite series.
My Rating: 4.5/5.0
Next I'll start with the Prologue. Oh my gosh, how darling and it really sets the stage for the rest of the book. I was hooked right from the beginning. I loved Grace, she's smart, she's independent, but she knows just who she wants for her man even though she thinks she can't get him to see her as anything but a little sister. Oh and she's an awesome baker and an amazing friend. What is there not to love about her. Jax is equally awesome. He's good-looking, a hard worker and trying desperately to outrun his past and his Dad. He also hasn't been thinking of Grace as a sister (Brendan is his best friend and Grace's brother) since she was about 18. However he's a little harder to convince that he's good enough for Grace. There are other key player, of course Brendan and Paige factor in. There are Grace's friends, Harper, Mel and Preston. There is Shep the third in the trio that have been friends since forever (Brendan, Jax and Shep). And briefly I must talk about Shep who I am guessing gets the next book. Now Brendan and Jax are good-looking, but I am definitely intrigued by Shep and he sounds hot as evidenced by this quote:
Out of the three of them, Shep was most definitely the bad boy of the group. Tattoos were scattered across both of his arms and forearms. He had perpetual scruff on his wide, chiseled jaw and above his lips, which were usually quirked up in a smile. He had the darkest blue eyes that Grace had ever seen on a man and thick wavy black hair that was always shaggy and rumpled.
I can't wait to read more about him. And to round out the men there is Bennett a construction worker who was once in the service, and I hope to learn more about him as well. There is family, Jax's awful Dad, Grace and Brendan's wonderful grandparents. And finally there are the bad guys who have always been around Hoyt, Judson and Chad plus the nasty gossip blogger Bethelda Grimshaw. So with this wonderful cast of good and bad characters where can you go wrong?
As far as plot, it moves along well. Jax and Grace's on-again, off-again relationship being the main driving factor along with some breakins that Jax is investigating. There are some incredibly funny moments like this conversation with Shep early in the book:
"So it was a good talk then?"
No, the talking hadn't been good. Every time Jax had opened his mouth he'd said something stupid. Who was he kidding? Everything he'd done with his mouth had been stupid.
Incredible? Yes. But also incredibly stupid.
"Is there a point to this?" Jax asked.
"Yeah. Two of them as a matter of fact and they're on your ass."
"What?"
"You've got some nice Grace-sized handprints."
"Shit," Jax said wiping his hands vigorously on the back of his pants.
"It's on the back of your shirt, too, and on your collar. You two roll around in flour or something?."
But more than that, Undeniable tackles some issues not in tons of detail, but enough to bring them to your attention. And I love how it does that while still being a romance novel. Some of the things it brings to the forefront are hate crimes, child abuse, bullying, homosexuality, losing a parent at early age and not even knowing who your father is. This is a light and fluffy book, but then again it isn't. Ms. Richards finds the perfect balance to deal with issues while still keeping the focus on Jax and Grace.
I would say the only thing that really bothered me about this book was Jax's struggle. Sometimes I wanted to beat him over the head. But I realize he had to have it to grow and for the book to move and him to finally come to his senses. Though it frustrated me, I thoroughly enjoyed the book.
Ms. Richards weaves a wonderful tale of a community of friends who will do anything to protect each other. And with a wonderful lesson that sometimes your family is not blood-related but those who have surrounded you, loved you and cared for you all along.
Sometimes blood wasn't the strongest bond. Sometimes your friends were your real family.
It's a beautiful book with a great romance and I can't wait to go back and read Undone and be drawn in by more of Ms. Richards magic. And I'm all set for Unstoppable, the third book in the Country Roads series as well! I love small town novels and this is quickly becoming one of my favorite series.
My Rating: 4.5/5.0
October 1, 2013
http://ripeforreader.blogspot.ca/2013...
UNDENIABLE (A Country Roads Novel) by Shannon Richard
Growing up in an abusive household with an alcoholic father and almost non-existent mother, Jaxson Anderson spent most of his time from elementary school on at his best friend Brendan's house. Eventhough theirs was not a traditional family, it was a house filled with love and he received all the nurturing and care that was sadly lacking in his own home. It gave him the strength to overcome his measly roots and work his way to deputy sheriff, a job that suited him perfectly, since he always had a drive to protect and defend the innocent. Starting with his best friend's little sister, Grace, back when they were kids.
Grace King wouldn't leave town for anything. Not even the town bullies who have been on her case since grade school. Working in the bakery of her grandmother's cafe, she loved being creative with in the kitchen and especially enjoyed feeding delicious town sherrif Jax Anderson, the man she has been in love with since she was about fourteen years old. Of course, Jax will never see her as anything other than Brendan's little sister, but Grace is determined that is going to have to change. She is no longer a child at twenty four, and it's about time he noticed that!
Not a morning goes by that Jax doesn't pop into the cafe to pick up a coffee and something to eat, and for his daily dose of Grace. He can't get through his day without one of her bright smiles to boost him. Oh, he has noticed her, he has noticed Grace for many years, but no matter how much he wants her, or how much his friends encourage him to make his move, he can't have her. He simply has nothing good enough to offer her.
In an unguarded moment when his defenses are low, he lets Grace slip in and with one kiss she slowly starts breaking down the walls the has built up. Grace won't let herself be deterred for long when he tries to step back. But when Grace ends up in the middle of a crime scene and becomes the subject of the biggest town dirt ever to be unearthed, there is nothing that could pry Jax from her side.
*****
Great small-town feeling, complete with evil gossip, local hangout, solid group of friends and favorite coffee stop!! Can't get any better!! Love the feel of this book.
Grace is a pretty strong character, despite her less than easy history. Not so much because of her home life, which was loving, but because of the way she was treated by some. Daughter of a single mother who died young, father remained unknown to this day and Grace herself always an easy target for the town bullies. With strong support from her grandparents, her brother and his circle of friends and her own buddies, she finds herself in her culinary creations, and despite the occasional run in with said bullies, she really enjoys her life. With one thing missing to make it complete, and she is determined to get it.
Jax has great strength as long as he stays out of his head. He can deal with all things that don't concern him. As soon as he is confronted with his parents or his past, he is immediately transported back into the emotional state of the young boy he was, feeling unworthy, a misfit and good for nothing, regardless of all he has accomplished to prove differently. His heart desperately wants and needs what his head won't let him have......Grace. There are times his buddies are getting pretty fed up with him, trying to convince him he is as deserving as anyone else. Frankly, there were times I was getting a little tired of his constant inner dialogue too, the yoyo-ing was giving me a neck-strain! Ultimately the heart, the friends, common sense and of course, Grace, prevail........thank goodness!!
I really enjoyed the story, am enjoying the series..... I read and reviewed the first book: UNDONE, and finally discovered the purpose of the character of Chad, I was questioning in that first review!!! It becomes clear when reading THIS book!!! Other than that slight overlap in the series, these books could easily be read as standalone books if you choose to do so, although personally, I am glad I read both.
✨A touching and sexy small-town romantic mystery.✨
**ARC courtesy of NetGalley and Forever in return for an honest review.**
UNDENIABLE (A Country Roads Novel) by Shannon Richard
Growing up in an abusive household with an alcoholic father and almost non-existent mother, Jaxson Anderson spent most of his time from elementary school on at his best friend Brendan's house. Eventhough theirs was not a traditional family, it was a house filled with love and he received all the nurturing and care that was sadly lacking in his own home. It gave him the strength to overcome his measly roots and work his way to deputy sheriff, a job that suited him perfectly, since he always had a drive to protect and defend the innocent. Starting with his best friend's little sister, Grace, back when they were kids.
Grace King wouldn't leave town for anything. Not even the town bullies who have been on her case since grade school. Working in the bakery of her grandmother's cafe, she loved being creative with in the kitchen and especially enjoyed feeding delicious town sherrif Jax Anderson, the man she has been in love with since she was about fourteen years old. Of course, Jax will never see her as anything other than Brendan's little sister, but Grace is determined that is going to have to change. She is no longer a child at twenty four, and it's about time he noticed that!
Not a morning goes by that Jax doesn't pop into the cafe to pick up a coffee and something to eat, and for his daily dose of Grace. He can't get through his day without one of her bright smiles to boost him. Oh, he has noticed her, he has noticed Grace for many years, but no matter how much he wants her, or how much his friends encourage him to make his move, he can't have her. He simply has nothing good enough to offer her.
In an unguarded moment when his defenses are low, he lets Grace slip in and with one kiss she slowly starts breaking down the walls the has built up. Grace won't let herself be deterred for long when he tries to step back. But when Grace ends up in the middle of a crime scene and becomes the subject of the biggest town dirt ever to be unearthed, there is nothing that could pry Jax from her side.
*****
Great small-town feeling, complete with evil gossip, local hangout, solid group of friends and favorite coffee stop!! Can't get any better!! Love the feel of this book.
Grace is a pretty strong character, despite her less than easy history. Not so much because of her home life, which was loving, but because of the way she was treated by some. Daughter of a single mother who died young, father remained unknown to this day and Grace herself always an easy target for the town bullies. With strong support from her grandparents, her brother and his circle of friends and her own buddies, she finds herself in her culinary creations, and despite the occasional run in with said bullies, she really enjoys her life. With one thing missing to make it complete, and she is determined to get it.
Jax has great strength as long as he stays out of his head. He can deal with all things that don't concern him. As soon as he is confronted with his parents or his past, he is immediately transported back into the emotional state of the young boy he was, feeling unworthy, a misfit and good for nothing, regardless of all he has accomplished to prove differently. His heart desperately wants and needs what his head won't let him have......Grace. There are times his buddies are getting pretty fed up with him, trying to convince him he is as deserving as anyone else. Frankly, there were times I was getting a little tired of his constant inner dialogue too, the yoyo-ing was giving me a neck-strain! Ultimately the heart, the friends, common sense and of course, Grace, prevail........thank goodness!!
I really enjoyed the story, am enjoying the series..... I read and reviewed the first book: UNDONE, and finally discovered the purpose of the character of Chad, I was questioning in that first review!!! It becomes clear when reading THIS book!!! Other than that slight overlap in the series, these books could easily be read as standalone books if you choose to do so, although personally, I am glad I read both.
✨A touching and sexy small-town romantic mystery.✨
**ARC courtesy of NetGalley and Forever in return for an honest review.**
February 5, 2015
Somehow, along the way, I missed the release of the second book in the Country Roads series. That will teach me to pay better attention. But the up side to that is I had a new-to-me Shannon Richard book and a cup of coffee to cuddle up with while hiding away from the below zero temps we had in January.
Grace was 6 year olds when Jax Anderson became the love of her life. Maybe not in a romantic way. But he was certainly her hero. How could he not be when he scared off the bullies and insisted that she was a princess? But she grew up and 18 year old Grace was fully aware that her feelings for Jax had grown with her. Unfortunately, no matter how hard she tried to get his attention, he always seemed to be oblivious. Recently Grace has stepped back and has decided there’s no reason she should be waiting around for someone who doesn’t return her affections. Not that she’ll stop taking care of Jax by making sure he has his morning coffee and plenty to eat. It’s what she does.
Jax won’t lie to himself and pretend that he doesn’t want Grace with every fiber in his being. But he will deny himself pursuing her in any way, shape or form. Jax grew up with a physically and emotionally abusive father. One of the more lasting effects of that abuse is Jax’s lack of self-worth. He’s truly feels that he isn’t good enough for Grace. But Grace’s quiet persistence over the years is starting to get to Jax. And he’s finally getting to the point (thanks, in part, to the help of meddling friends) where maybe, just maybe, he can let himself have a little bit of happiness. Just a little.
There is a lot going on in this story besides the dancing around (yes, that can be construed as a euphemism for….something) that Grace and Jax are doing. One of the things I loved most in this story is that Jax and his friends are re-modeling Jax’s future home. It is apparent to everyone except Jax that he is subconsciously building his house with Grace in mind. Not that all his buddies didn’t notice. But they were too nice to say anything. Until they feel their interference is needed, of course. Seriously, the Men of Mirabelle are such meddlers. It’s hilarious.
Then there are plenty of frightening things to get in the way of Jax and Grace’s developing relationship. An unsolved string of burglaries and thefts have kept Jax constantly busy. Then there is the continuous harassment Grace is experiencing from some creeps who went to high school with her. And then throw in a hate crime against one of Grace’s closest friends. Mirabelle is a hot mess and Jax and Grace are feeling the pressure. On top of all of that there is also that horrid gossip blog run by an angry and bitter woman named Bethelda. No one is safe from The Grim Truth. Not even a town Deputy, Jax. And certainly not, Grace, who for some reason has always been held accountable (by her very existence) for her late mother’s love life.
This romance is sexy and fast paced. There is plenty of the angst I enjoy so much but it’s perfectly balanced with plenty of humor keeping me entertained at every turn of the page. If you are a fan of contemporary small town romances, definitely give Undeniable a try. You won’t be disappointed.
Nat
Grace was 6 year olds when Jax Anderson became the love of her life. Maybe not in a romantic way. But he was certainly her hero. How could he not be when he scared off the bullies and insisted that she was a princess? But she grew up and 18 year old Grace was fully aware that her feelings for Jax had grown with her. Unfortunately, no matter how hard she tried to get his attention, he always seemed to be oblivious. Recently Grace has stepped back and has decided there’s no reason she should be waiting around for someone who doesn’t return her affections. Not that she’ll stop taking care of Jax by making sure he has his morning coffee and plenty to eat. It’s what she does.
Jax won’t lie to himself and pretend that he doesn’t want Grace with every fiber in his being. But he will deny himself pursuing her in any way, shape or form. Jax grew up with a physically and emotionally abusive father. One of the more lasting effects of that abuse is Jax’s lack of self-worth. He’s truly feels that he isn’t good enough for Grace. But Grace’s quiet persistence over the years is starting to get to Jax. And he’s finally getting to the point (thanks, in part, to the help of meddling friends) where maybe, just maybe, he can let himself have a little bit of happiness. Just a little.
There is a lot going on in this story besides the dancing around (yes, that can be construed as a euphemism for….something) that Grace and Jax are doing. One of the things I loved most in this story is that Jax and his friends are re-modeling Jax’s future home. It is apparent to everyone except Jax that he is subconsciously building his house with Grace in mind. Not that all his buddies didn’t notice. But they were too nice to say anything. Until they feel their interference is needed, of course. Seriously, the Men of Mirabelle are such meddlers. It’s hilarious.
Then there are plenty of frightening things to get in the way of Jax and Grace’s developing relationship. An unsolved string of burglaries and thefts have kept Jax constantly busy. Then there is the continuous harassment Grace is experiencing from some creeps who went to high school with her. And then throw in a hate crime against one of Grace’s closest friends. Mirabelle is a hot mess and Jax and Grace are feeling the pressure. On top of all of that there is also that horrid gossip blog run by an angry and bitter woman named Bethelda. No one is safe from The Grim Truth. Not even a town Deputy, Jax. And certainly not, Grace, who for some reason has always been held accountable (by her very existence) for her late mother’s love life.
This romance is sexy and fast paced. There is plenty of the angst I enjoy so much but it’s perfectly balanced with plenty of humor keeping me entertained at every turn of the page. If you are a fan of contemporary small town romances, definitely give Undeniable a try. You won’t be disappointed.
Nat
October 2, 2013
This review was posted at Tsuki’s STS on September 26, 2013.
The other day I read "If You Were Mine" by Bella Andre and I enjoyed it. The next day I picked up this one. I got 25% into it before realizing it was basically the same premise. Girl wants guy. Guy wants girl but won't admit it. Guy has issues. Stuff happens making the guy want to admit his love. I almost put it down because of the general plot similarities but I stuck it out and it was worth it.
Grace is in love with Jax. He is the end all be all for her but as her older brother's best friend, he refuses to admit his feelings. After one kiss the two tumble into a relationship with lots of issues. Grace wants it all but Jax keeps running away. When Grace's life is hit by a string of rumors and harassment, Jax has her back until love enters the equation. When Grace's life is threatened can Jax get over his issues and love Grace?
Unfortunately for me I read this book on the heels of a book with a similar conflict. That tends to make me harsher and more unforgiving on the second book. In order for the second book to get a really good review, it has to knock it out of the park. In this case...it was sort of average. I'll start with what I liked though.
I liked Grace as a character. She knew what she wanted and she went for it. She knew when to call it quits when things weren't working for her. She was the one who said "I deserve love and if you can't man-up and give it to me then we're done." (Okay so I paraphrased the general idea but still!). I had mad love for the girl who knew when her love interest was being a jackass. You have to respect that.
Jax was 'eh'. He had all the makings of an awesome hero but he fell flat with all of issues. He had parental issues. He had love issues. He had commitment issues. Basically he was a guy who wasn't ready for the hero role. Unfortunately for me, while he came to the realization of love with Grace, I couldn't really support him. I didn't think he was ready.
There was also this terribly predictable sub-plot with robberies. Within about 15% I knew who was doing it and who was marginally involved. I hate suspense plots that are predictable. It dragged out through the book and it was completely unnecessary.
This brings me to my final issue with the book which was length. It was way too long! By about 35% I was hoping it was over. It wasn't terrible but it was tedious. Page after page after page of recycled issue and plot got old quick. I didn't care who Grace's father was. I didn't care about the robbery. I didn't care about Brendan (Grace's brother) and his wife's story. Frankly I was just ready for it to be over.
It wasn't a horrible book and I did look into book one which seemed interesting. I may revisit the series when I haven't read a similar book right before it. Unfortunately that caused problems for me but then, it was a book that needed a little polish and a little editing.
2 Stars
Published by Forever Yours
400 Pages
October 1, 2013
Provided by--NetGalley
The other day I read "If You Were Mine" by Bella Andre and I enjoyed it. The next day I picked up this one. I got 25% into it before realizing it was basically the same premise. Girl wants guy. Guy wants girl but won't admit it. Guy has issues. Stuff happens making the guy want to admit his love. I almost put it down because of the general plot similarities but I stuck it out and it was worth it.
Grace is in love with Jax. He is the end all be all for her but as her older brother's best friend, he refuses to admit his feelings. After one kiss the two tumble into a relationship with lots of issues. Grace wants it all but Jax keeps running away. When Grace's life is hit by a string of rumors and harassment, Jax has her back until love enters the equation. When Grace's life is threatened can Jax get over his issues and love Grace?
Unfortunately for me I read this book on the heels of a book with a similar conflict. That tends to make me harsher and more unforgiving on the second book. In order for the second book to get a really good review, it has to knock it out of the park. In this case...it was sort of average. I'll start with what I liked though.
I liked Grace as a character. She knew what she wanted and she went for it. She knew when to call it quits when things weren't working for her. She was the one who said "I deserve love and if you can't man-up and give it to me then we're done." (Okay so I paraphrased the general idea but still!). I had mad love for the girl who knew when her love interest was being a jackass. You have to respect that.
Jax was 'eh'. He had all the makings of an awesome hero but he fell flat with all of issues. He had parental issues. He had love issues. He had commitment issues. Basically he was a guy who wasn't ready for the hero role. Unfortunately for me, while he came to the realization of love with Grace, I couldn't really support him. I didn't think he was ready.
There was also this terribly predictable sub-plot with robberies. Within about 15% I knew who was doing it and who was marginally involved. I hate suspense plots that are predictable. It dragged out through the book and it was completely unnecessary.
This brings me to my final issue with the book which was length. It was way too long! By about 35% I was hoping it was over. It wasn't terrible but it was tedious. Page after page after page of recycled issue and plot got old quick. I didn't care who Grace's father was. I didn't care about the robbery. I didn't care about Brendan (Grace's brother) and his wife's story. Frankly I was just ready for it to be over.
It wasn't a horrible book and I did look into book one which seemed interesting. I may revisit the series when I haven't read a similar book right before it. Unfortunately that caused problems for me but then, it was a book that needed a little polish and a little editing.
2 Stars
Published by Forever Yours
400 Pages
October 1, 2013
Provided by--NetGalley
November 5, 2014
There was something in this book that I just knew was true, “Sometimes blood wasn’t the strongest bond. Sometimes your friends were your real family.”
Well after reading Undone and Undeniable was already out I knew that I had to read this book. I fell in love with both Grace King and Jaxson “Jax” Anderson in the last book and knew that they would eventually end up together. I knew that they were going to have a tough relationship they were going to have highs and lows and twists and turns but I had no idea how bad it would be.
So in the last book there were a couple of characters that I could not stand and one of those was Chad, he was an ex boyfriend of Grace and I could not believe what he had almost done to her. She always had her brother and his friends as her defenders but eventually she knew that they would end up leaving and she would have to tell with the rumors on her own. Then there was Jax and his story and how horrible his parents treated him. He ended up at Branden’s house more often than not because they cared for him and feed him. His mother and father her alcoholics and his father treated him like dirt. I’m happy that he ended up having a level head but he didn’t know what it was to be loved or so he thought. I loved when Grace told him why she was always feeding him I thought dude come on she is in love with you and you with her.
Grace loved Jax since he saved her at the age of six and I wanted to believe that Jax fell in love with him at the same time. Only that Jax didn’t think he deserved her so of course he ends up pushing her away. I couldn’t believe it they were perfect for each other and he was making such a mess of things. Then of course you know that they end up together but then that doesn’t last. But in-between all that time more things end up coming out and happening. Her bestfriend come out and then something horrible happens to him. Then if that is not enough it comes out whom her father is and it is the same night that she and Jax end up breaking up. I couldn’t believe it, I felt so bad for Grace but there was something else that was heart warming that happened, Trevor Oliver King was born and he was a precious little baby that their parents adored along with everyone else.
Undeniable was a great read that I totally enjoyed. I was able to connect with the characters and I was able to get a small glimpse of the characters for the next book. The character that I want for him to get his happily ever after is Shep. But back to Grace and Jax, there was laughter, grinning from happiness but there was also so many tears because of all the twists and turns that happened in their relationship but also in Grace’s life. This story felt so real the dialogue of the characters was something that I could see happening. The chemistry between them was amazing, they light up the room when they were together even when they were apart I knew it was only a matter of time before they ended up together.
I totally recommend this read!!
Well after reading Undone and Undeniable was already out I knew that I had to read this book. I fell in love with both Grace King and Jaxson “Jax” Anderson in the last book and knew that they would eventually end up together. I knew that they were going to have a tough relationship they were going to have highs and lows and twists and turns but I had no idea how bad it would be.
So in the last book there were a couple of characters that I could not stand and one of those was Chad, he was an ex boyfriend of Grace and I could not believe what he had almost done to her. She always had her brother and his friends as her defenders but eventually she knew that they would end up leaving and she would have to tell with the rumors on her own. Then there was Jax and his story and how horrible his parents treated him. He ended up at Branden’s house more often than not because they cared for him and feed him. His mother and father her alcoholics and his father treated him like dirt. I’m happy that he ended up having a level head but he didn’t know what it was to be loved or so he thought. I loved when Grace told him why she was always feeding him I thought dude come on she is in love with you and you with her.
Grace loved Jax since he saved her at the age of six and I wanted to believe that Jax fell in love with him at the same time. Only that Jax didn’t think he deserved her so of course he ends up pushing her away. I couldn’t believe it they were perfect for each other and he was making such a mess of things. Then of course you know that they end up together but then that doesn’t last. But in-between all that time more things end up coming out and happening. Her bestfriend come out and then something horrible happens to him. Then if that is not enough it comes out whom her father is and it is the same night that she and Jax end up breaking up. I couldn’t believe it, I felt so bad for Grace but there was something else that was heart warming that happened, Trevor Oliver King was born and he was a precious little baby that their parents adored along with everyone else.
Undeniable was a great read that I totally enjoyed. I was able to connect with the characters and I was able to get a small glimpse of the characters for the next book. The character that I want for him to get his happily ever after is Shep. But back to Grace and Jax, there was laughter, grinning from happiness but there was also so many tears because of all the twists and turns that happened in their relationship but also in Grace’s life. This story felt so real the dialogue of the characters was something that I could see happening. The chemistry between them was amazing, they light up the room when they were together even when they were apart I knew it was only a matter of time before they ended up together.
I totally recommend this read!!
October 1, 2014
I really, really enjoyed this book. I loved the characters and the plot.
Things I liked:
- Jax and Grace: I really loved their romance, for the most part it was perfect and they were so adorable.
- All of the friends: Both Jax and Grace had amazing friends. I loved Shep, he was pretty awesome.
- Brenden and Paige: I didn't read Undone, but I am going to guess that the first book was based off of them. I think they are going to make awesome parents. I also loved the characters on their own. Brenden was an incredibly loving brother, and Paige was just awesome.
- The whole "villain" plot line.
-The mystery with Grace's dad.
- Grace's passion for cooking. I love that it stayed present even when things got super intense.
- PRESTON! What an amazing friend he is. I want a Preston for myself.
Things I didn't like:
- This is a biased opinion. I am only 16 years old, so the explicit sex scenes made me a bit uncomfortable reading. But the good news with that was there were only a few of them, and it wasn't all about sex.
- Whenever Jax would break it off with Grace because "he's not good enough".
My thoughts on Grace: I love her! I thought she was a very realistic character. Irrevocably in love and bullied. She's incredibly passionate on everything: Family, friendship, Jax, cooking, people in general... I love it. I also think she is a really strong girl. But not too strong. She is vulnerable, but she has handled a lot of crap.
My thoughts on Jax: Besides what was previously mentioned about his commitment issues, I really liked him. He was super kind, and I saw quite a character arc. He was very mopey and "frowny" but as the story progresses, he gets so happy, and just like Grace, I loved seeing him happy.
My thoughts on the ending:
Yeah, I really liked this!
Things I liked:
- Jax and Grace: I really loved their romance, for the most part it was perfect and they were so adorable.
- All of the friends: Both Jax and Grace had amazing friends. I loved Shep, he was pretty awesome.
- Brenden and Paige: I didn't read Undone, but I am going to guess that the first book was based off of them. I think they are going to make awesome parents. I also loved the characters on their own. Brenden was an incredibly loving brother, and Paige was just awesome.
- The whole "villain" plot line.
-The mystery with Grace's dad.
- Grace's passion for cooking. I love that it stayed present even when things got super intense.
- PRESTON! What an amazing friend he is. I want a Preston for myself.
Things I didn't like:
- This is a biased opinion. I am only 16 years old, so the explicit sex scenes made me a bit uncomfortable reading. But the good news with that was there were only a few of them, and it wasn't all about sex.
- Whenever Jax would break it off with Grace because "he's not good enough".
My thoughts on Grace: I love her! I thought she was a very realistic character. Irrevocably in love and bullied. She's incredibly passionate on everything: Family, friendship, Jax, cooking, people in general... I love it. I also think she is a really strong girl. But not too strong. She is vulnerable, but she has handled a lot of crap.
My thoughts on Jax: Besides what was previously mentioned about his commitment issues, I really liked him. He was super kind, and I saw quite a character arc. He was very mopey and "frowny" but as the story progresses, he gets so happy, and just like Grace, I loved seeing him happy.
My thoughts on the ending:
Yeah, I really liked this!
March 3, 2017
Love Jax and Grace. I will continue with this series.
October 16, 2013
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This book is a second installment of a series, but each book can be read as a stand alone.
When my request on Netgalley was accepted, I was really happy because this book sounded like a perfect blend of sweetness and hotness. It’s also more than that.
I really had a good time reading it. It’s always great to read a romance that takes place in a small town and you’ve got all these people really close living close the ones that are true assholes. I’m quite fond of that kind of scene and in that I’m not disappointed.
The little issue I have with that, though, is that there are many characters. Too many sometimes. Some people have a really tiny role, so much so that I have a feeling that they could have been absent and that way it wouldn’t dragged the story longer. Don’t get me wrong, these characters are great, but they don’t really bring something to Grace and Jax’s story as it is. And the ones that should have been more present to give even more depth to Jax’s character – I’m thinking about his parents – have a too tiny appearence that was almost cliché in comparison to what I was expecting.
Also, some events were explained almost like a second hand report instead of being showed to us, which made me step out of the story a few times. It would have been great to see more of what happened when some characters were at the police station and such. It would have brought even more of an edge to the whole mystery and tension-filled part of the story. That’s a little too much of a miss for me.
But the thing I truly love is the relationship between Grace and Jax. These two work so perfectly together and I loved to read their scenes, to witness their issues and how it came up between them. And damn! Some scenes are really hot!
The writing style was simple which is a good thing for such a story because it’s not boring and it conveys the emotions quite well. There were a few things I think are maybe almost too simplistic, but I’m being picky.
In the end I have a hard time to rate this one as I’m thinking something between 3.5 and 4 stars is quite accurate. This book was an enjoyable read, was quite fun and sexy, but it’s not a must read for me. I recommend this to readers looking for a good romance taking place in a small town. I’m sure you will have a good time with Grace and Jax.
This book is a second installment of a series, but each book can be read as a stand alone.
When my request on Netgalley was accepted, I was really happy because this book sounded like a perfect blend of sweetness and hotness. It’s also more than that.
I really had a good time reading it. It’s always great to read a romance that takes place in a small town and you’ve got all these people really close living close the ones that are true assholes. I’m quite fond of that kind of scene and in that I’m not disappointed.
The little issue I have with that, though, is that there are many characters. Too many sometimes. Some people have a really tiny role, so much so that I have a feeling that they could have been absent and that way it wouldn’t dragged the story longer. Don’t get me wrong, these characters are great, but they don’t really bring something to Grace and Jax’s story as it is. And the ones that should have been more present to give even more depth to Jax’s character – I’m thinking about his parents – have a too tiny appearence that was almost cliché in comparison to what I was expecting.
Also, some events were explained almost like a second hand report instead of being showed to us, which made me step out of the story a few times. It would have been great to see more of what happened when some characters were at the police station and such. It would have brought even more of an edge to the whole mystery and tension-filled part of the story. That’s a little too much of a miss for me.
But the thing I truly love is the relationship between Grace and Jax. These two work so perfectly together and I loved to read their scenes, to witness their issues and how it came up between them. And damn! Some scenes are really hot!
The writing style was simple which is a good thing for such a story because it’s not boring and it conveys the emotions quite well. There were a few things I think are maybe almost too simplistic, but I’m being picky.
In the end I have a hard time to rate this one as I’m thinking something between 3.5 and 4 stars is quite accurate. This book was an enjoyable read, was quite fun and sexy, but it’s not a must read for me. I recommend this to readers looking for a good romance taking place in a small town. I’m sure you will have a good time with Grace and Jax.
October 13, 2013
Grace has been in love with Jax since she can remember. But he treats her like a little sister and she needs to move on. Of course, leave it to Jax to show some interest at that precise moment.
Jax has kept his distance from Grace since he noticed he harbored more than brotherly feelings for her. He believes he's not worthy enough for her because of his volatile past. But as much as he tries to keep away, Grace is not making it easy on him.
After reading Undone, I was hesitant about this story, but the blurb drew me in as soon as I read it and I couldn't resist. I'm glad I decided to give it a chance because this story was so very different from the previous one. Where Undone came across as more of a fun, romantic story Jax's story was more of an emotional one. I loved it!
Shannon Richard did a great job of drawing me into the story by bringing Jax's emotions to the surface. Be it lust, frustration, regret or guilt, everything Jax felt was beautifully depicted in the page for its outmost impact. I truly felt for him and reacted accordingly. I wanted to hug him and tell him he was more than worthy, at the same time that I wanted to smack him upside the head for rejecting Grace so heartlessly. Twice!
Grace was a great character to get to know too. She was sure of her feelings for Jax, but she wasn't a fool either. She wanted more than a friends-with-benefits relationship with Jax and until he opened up and let her in she refused to invest herself in the relationship again. I admired her determination and was happy for her when Jax finally relented and let her in.
To say that their chemistry was explosive would be an understatement. Phew! that first kiss alone was something else to tell you the truth. The subsequent encounters were hot too, but it was those intimate moments when they let go and let each other in that truly made this story such an enjoyable one for me.
Undeniable is the second book in the Country Roads series , but can be read as a stand alone. All in all, Jax's story was an emotionally driven friends-to-lovers story and a great addition to the series.
I received this title from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange of my honest opinion
October 7, 2013
Grace King is a 24 year old living in the small Florida town of Mirabelle. Growing up in Mirabelle hasn’t been the easiest of feats. She’s often been ridiculed as a bastard since her mom ended up pregnant with her and there were only rumblings that her father was a married man who came into town. To further her misfortune, she also lost her mother when she was just ten years old. Gracie has since been raised and protected by her grandparents and her brother, Brendan. She works at her grandma’s café where she can express herself through food and in particular by feed the hunky deputy Jaxson Anderson. She’s been in love with him since she was six years old. Unfortunately for her, he can only see her as his best friend’s little sister.
Jax, much like Grace, has had it rough. He is the son to two abusive parents. His father is an alcoholic who verbally abusive Jax any chance he gets and has his whole life; on the other hand, his mother just drinks and does nothing to protect her only child. Because of this situation it was up to a tight group of friends to become his family. His best friend Brendan and the whole family took him in as one of their own. His other friends Shep and Bennett followed suit.
I love that right from the beginning this story has a very familiar feel to it without being totally cliché. As someone who grew up in a small town, it was easy to relate to everyone knowing everyone else’s business. This story could take place anywhere and it still would be relevant. All of the characters have multiple layers and give the impression they could be your friend.
This book is interesting because everything starts out at odds then gets happy. But as you might suspect there’s strife externally causing issues, what is noteworthy is that it’s the internal issues of these two people who are somewhat broken that causes the biggest problem. The question throughout really is can Jaxson overcome his past and find happiness?
If you’re look for a steamy in the bedroom read, this isn’t it…but that’s not to say it isn’t sweltering. This is a good romance where Grace and Jaxson have palpable and blistering chemistry from the get-go. The story will undo you emotionally before you get your happy ending.
~Received ARC in exchange for honest review.~
Jax, much like Grace, has had it rough. He is the son to two abusive parents. His father is an alcoholic who verbally abusive Jax any chance he gets and has his whole life; on the other hand, his mother just drinks and does nothing to protect her only child. Because of this situation it was up to a tight group of friends to become his family. His best friend Brendan and the whole family took him in as one of their own. His other friends Shep and Bennett followed suit.
I love that right from the beginning this story has a very familiar feel to it without being totally cliché. As someone who grew up in a small town, it was easy to relate to everyone knowing everyone else’s business. This story could take place anywhere and it still would be relevant. All of the characters have multiple layers and give the impression they could be your friend.
This book is interesting because everything starts out at odds then gets happy. But as you might suspect there’s strife externally causing issues, what is noteworthy is that it’s the internal issues of these two people who are somewhat broken that causes the biggest problem. The question throughout really is can Jaxson overcome his past and find happiness?
If you’re look for a steamy in the bedroom read, this isn’t it…but that’s not to say it isn’t sweltering. This is a good romance where Grace and Jaxson have palpable and blistering chemistry from the get-go. The story will undo you emotionally before you get your happy ending.
~Received ARC in exchange for honest review.~
February 21, 2014
With her brother now married to the love of his life Grace feels like she'll never have what he does. The love of her life looks at her like a kid sister and it's killing her. Grace has known Jax all her life, but there was this moment when she was a young girl that made her fall hopelessly in love with him, and now that she's older she still feels the exact same way. Too bad he's clueless, or at least he is until she gets upset and flat out tells him.
Growing up in a home where your mother never took care of you and your father made sure he continually told you how worthless you were had shaped Jax more than he'd liked to admit. Because of how he'd grown up he never thought himself worthy of the only girl he'd ever cared for, Grace. He'd been in love with her for years, but he refused to ever do anything about it. Even after an undeniable moment where his resolve shattered and he gave into his desires, he'd immediately pulled back, leaving himself...and her, even more broken.
After restraints are finally broken between Grace and Jax, they fall into a rhythm they don't know how they ever did without before. But part of Jax still thinks he isn't good enough for her and part of her keeps waiting for him to walk away again. Their relationship may be doomed, but it's amazing how one night can change everything.
This book has all the characters I loved from the first book, including a new little addition. This too had humor; nothing like flour hand prints to give away a secret. It was emotional; nothing like altercations that keep ending with people in the hospital.
And the heat between Grace and Jax was perfect.
"Oh, jeez, she was wearing those black lace boy short things that made him forget his name."
"Flat surface. He needed a flat surface like ten seconds ago."
My Favorite Moments: I enjoyed it thoroughly ever time Jax got his ass handed to him. Usually it was Shep doing it, but there were also a few others including Brendan that did it in a way that made me wish I had an older brother, especially one like him.
My Favorite Laughable Moment: A brother's unexpected visit at a very inappropriate time.
"Holy hell, there are so many things I've never wanted to witness and you in bed with Jax is pretty close to the top of the list."
Growing up in a home where your mother never took care of you and your father made sure he continually told you how worthless you were had shaped Jax more than he'd liked to admit. Because of how he'd grown up he never thought himself worthy of the only girl he'd ever cared for, Grace. He'd been in love with her for years, but he refused to ever do anything about it. Even after an undeniable moment where his resolve shattered and he gave into his desires, he'd immediately pulled back, leaving himself...and her, even more broken.
After restraints are finally broken between Grace and Jax, they fall into a rhythm they don't know how they ever did without before. But part of Jax still thinks he isn't good enough for her and part of her keeps waiting for him to walk away again. Their relationship may be doomed, but it's amazing how one night can change everything.
This book has all the characters I loved from the first book, including a new little addition. This too had humor; nothing like flour hand prints to give away a secret. It was emotional; nothing like altercations that keep ending with people in the hospital.
And the heat between Grace and Jax was perfect.
"Oh, jeez, she was wearing those black lace boy short things that made him forget his name."
"Flat surface. He needed a flat surface like ten seconds ago."
My Favorite Moments: I enjoyed it thoroughly ever time Jax got his ass handed to him. Usually it was Shep doing it, but there were also a few others including Brendan that did it in a way that made me wish I had an older brother, especially one like him.
My Favorite Laughable Moment: A brother's unexpected visit at a very inappropriate time.
"Holy hell, there are so many things I've never wanted to witness and you in bed with Jax is pretty close to the top of the list."
June 16, 2015
This is an excerpt of my complete review, found HERE at Into the Hall of Books.
THIS IS WHERE I DECLARED THIS SERIES ONE OF MY FAVORITES EVER EVER EVER. The first time I read the first book, I gobbled it up - I devoured it. And then I devoured the second and third books in the series, Undeniable and Unstoppable. This series has basically all of the things that I love about a fun romance series: the small town, the quirky characters, the friends/siblings/family relationships that are INCREDIBLE, and the fun romances! Plus, I smile while I read them. This is all KEY for me to know that a book or series is "favorites" status for me.
Undeniable puts Grace King and Jaxon Anderson in the spotlight. Grace is younger sister to Brendan King, who was featured heavily in the first book. Grace works with her grandmother at their cafe and WOW she is amazing in the kitchen! She has always taken a special interest in keeping Jax fed - she's had her reasons for taking care of Jax all throughout their lives. Jax is Brendan's best friend so his big, bad crush on Grace is a touchy subject and one he'd rather not admit. It was easy to hide his feelings for her when they were younger, but the older they get...the prettier she is, the sweeter she is, and GOOD GRIEF she just keeps on feeding him pies and food and coffee.
I'm a fan of slow-burn romances and you guys, HERE IS THE BEST ONE EVER EVER EVER. Grace and Jax have that crush that everyone in the world can see, but the two themselves will just not admit. They bicker and banter like brother and sister when they're together, but when they're not together they just can't stop thinking about one another. Reading about this romance is one of my favorite things ever, in the entire world. DID YOU SEE WHAT I JUST SAID? And that's a bold statement, because these two are completely, totally, massively stubborn about getting their happily-ever-after. And they do, but good-grief, we all have to work for it. I LOVE IT, I LOVE IT, I LOVE IT.
THIS IS WHERE I DECLARED THIS SERIES ONE OF MY FAVORITES EVER EVER EVER. The first time I read the first book, I gobbled it up - I devoured it. And then I devoured the second and third books in the series, Undeniable and Unstoppable. This series has basically all of the things that I love about a fun romance series: the small town, the quirky characters, the friends/siblings/family relationships that are INCREDIBLE, and the fun romances! Plus, I smile while I read them. This is all KEY for me to know that a book or series is "favorites" status for me.
Undeniable puts Grace King and Jaxon Anderson in the spotlight. Grace is younger sister to Brendan King, who was featured heavily in the first book. Grace works with her grandmother at their cafe and WOW she is amazing in the kitchen! She has always taken a special interest in keeping Jax fed - she's had her reasons for taking care of Jax all throughout their lives. Jax is Brendan's best friend so his big, bad crush on Grace is a touchy subject and one he'd rather not admit. It was easy to hide his feelings for her when they were younger, but the older they get...the prettier she is, the sweeter she is, and GOOD GRIEF she just keeps on feeding him pies and food and coffee.
I'm a fan of slow-burn romances and you guys, HERE IS THE BEST ONE EVER EVER EVER. Grace and Jax have that crush that everyone in the world can see, but the two themselves will just not admit. They bicker and banter like brother and sister when they're together, but when they're not together they just can't stop thinking about one another. Reading about this romance is one of my favorite things ever, in the entire world. DID YOU SEE WHAT I JUST SAID? And that's a bold statement, because these two are completely, totally, massively stubborn about getting their happily-ever-after. And they do, but good-grief, we all have to work for it. I LOVE IT, I LOVE IT, I LOVE IT.
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