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Imperfect Love #3
On the Surface
Celeste People see what they want to see.
They only view what’s on the surface, and they’re easy to fool.
I let them see on the outside that I’m a successful businesswoman.
My clothes are designer, my makeup flawless, and I live in a high-rise condo in Lennox Hills.
They see perfection, not what lies beneath the surface.
The real me, the one I keep hidden is a broken-hearted woman who uses the makeup to hide her tears.
The expensive clothing covers a heart once shattered by love.
The walls of my expensive home shelter a lonely woman who hides the fact that deep down she wants to be loved.
A woman who is too scared to risk her fragile heart.
For ten years, I’ve managed to hide behind the image of perfection.
Only letting people see what’s on the surface.
Until I ran into Jase Crawford, the sexy single dad from my past.
Now, every raw emotion, every shattered piece of my heart that I buried long ago is exposed outside the protective walls of my high-rise condo.
No matter how hard I try, I can’t keep the walls from crumbling.
He sees me beyond the image that I’ve created.
He says he can handle what’s below the surface, but can I?
They only view what’s on the surface, and they’re easy to fool.
I let them see on the outside that I’m a successful businesswoman.
My clothes are designer, my makeup flawless, and I live in a high-rise condo in Lennox Hills.
They see perfection, not what lies beneath the surface.
The real me, the one I keep hidden is a broken-hearted woman who uses the makeup to hide her tears.
The expensive clothing covers a heart once shattered by love.
The walls of my expensive home shelter a lonely woman who hides the fact that deep down she wants to be loved.
A woman who is too scared to risk her fragile heart.
For ten years, I’ve managed to hide behind the image of perfection.
Only letting people see what’s on the surface.
Until I ran into Jase Crawford, the sexy single dad from my past.
Now, every raw emotion, every shattered piece of my heart that I buried long ago is exposed outside the protective walls of my high-rise condo.
No matter how hard I try, I can’t keep the walls from crumbling.
He sees me beyond the image that I’ve created.
He says he can handle what’s below the surface, but can I?
363 pages, Paperback
First published June 22, 2019
886 people are currently reading
2703 people want to read
About the author
Nikki Ash
75 books4,260 followersNikki Ash resides in South Florida where she is an English teacher and mom by day and a writer by night. When she’s not writing, you can find her with a book in her hand. From the Boxcar Children to Wuthering Heights to the latest Single Parent Romance, she has lived and breathed every type of book.
Reading is like breathing in, writing is like breathing out. - Pam Allyn
While reading and writing are her passions, her two children are her entire world. You can probably find them at a Disney park before you would find them at home on the weekends!
Reading is like breathing in, writing is like breathing out. - Pam Allyn
While reading and writing are her passions, her two children are her entire world. You can probably find them at a Disney park before you would find them at home on the weekends!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 294 reviews
June 1, 2019
Just when I think I found a new favorite from Nikki Ash, she releases another one that has me astonished! She makes her characters so real and relatable. I want Jase to be my boyfriend and Celeste to be my best friend. If you want some hot sex scenes, heart wrenching feels and a damage heroine, you’ll love this story.
I knew from reading Going Deep that Jase and Celeste had a past. I wasn’t sure how Jase could be redeemed. In my mind he was a bad boy that had hurt Celeste. I could tell by her reactions that she had been hurt, I just didn’t know what happened until I started reading On the Surface. Oh how I was wrong!! Jase is a hot tattoo artist who twisted me up and made me all googly eyed just from reading his words. Celeste tries to act like nothing touches her or hurts her but her one weak spot is Jase. She tried to hide behind her career, makeup and clothes, however there’s more going on with her than what meets the eye.
I couldn’t get enough of Jase being a dad and how Celeste reacted to it. I also loved the push and pull at the beginning. Celeste tried so hard to resist Jase. This is a story I’ll never forget and my favorite singe dad book to date!
I knew from reading Going Deep that Jase and Celeste had a past. I wasn’t sure how Jase could be redeemed. In my mind he was a bad boy that had hurt Celeste. I could tell by her reactions that she had been hurt, I just didn’t know what happened until I started reading On the Surface. Oh how I was wrong!! Jase is a hot tattoo artist who twisted me up and made me all googly eyed just from reading his words. Celeste tries to act like nothing touches her or hurts her but her one weak spot is Jase. She tried to hide behind her career, makeup and clothes, however there’s more going on with her than what meets the eye.
I couldn’t get enough of Jase being a dad and how Celeste reacted to it. I also loved the push and pull at the beginning. Celeste tried so hard to resist Jase. This is a story I’ll never forget and my favorite singe dad book to date!
June 17, 2019
Jase is a single dad, and one of the best I’ve ever read. He’s sharing the top of my Nikki Ash pedestal with Tristan from Clinched.
Celeste is much more than what she seems when you first read about her in The Pickup. I absolutely love her.
I’m not good at writing reviews, and I’ve been trying to come up with adequate words to review this book since last week. Suffice it to say, I LOVED this book. This will be a definite reread for me. Probably in the near future.
Celeste is much more than what she seems when you first read about her in The Pickup. I absolutely love her.
I’m not good at writing reviews, and I’ve been trying to come up with adequate words to review this book since last week. Suffice it to say, I LOVED this book. This will be a definite reread for me. Probably in the near future.
June 7, 2019
With each book I read of Nikki's, I swear it's my favourite. Then I read another and it's like no, that's my favourite. It's an awesome problem to have!
Celeste and Jase's story genuinely is my favourite of this series so far. The fact that there is more to Celeste that what we met previously is brilliant. And Jase is definitely her perfect guy.
Single dad and second chance, two of my favourite troupes and ones that Nikki writes amazingly.
Another fantastic 5 star read!
Celeste and Jase's story genuinely is my favourite of this series so far. The fact that there is more to Celeste that what we met previously is brilliant. And Jase is definitely her perfect guy.
Single dad and second chance, two of my favourite troupes and ones that Nikki writes amazingly.
Another fantastic 5 star read!
May 10, 2022
3.5 stars! The beginning wasn’t my favorite, with all the flashbacks but I enjoyed getting to know the characters!
tropes: single dad, slight age gap, second chances, and miscommunication
when he’s pierced and wants in the back door 🥵🥵
tropes: single dad, slight age gap, second chances, and miscommunication
when he’s pierced and wants in the back door 🥵🥵
June 1, 2019
Full disclosure... I really wasn't a fan of Celeste. But that changed in a huge way! On the Surface is a beautiful second chance romance that will have your heart soaring! Jase and Celeste become the perfect halves of a whole.
We first meet Jase in Going Deep, and I knew there was going to be a story there, but I hadn't figured it out yet. Celeste's reaction to seeing him was the perfect foreshadow.
Now we jump into On the Surface. Holy emotions! We finally get Celeste's full backstory and that poor girl was put through the proverbial ringer. And Jase... Sweet, single daddy, hot, panty melting Jase! I like to say if I still had my ovaries they would have exploded.
On the Surface is everything we've come to expect from a Nikki Ash book: a lot of humor, a lot of heat, low drama, and a lot of love.
We first meet Jase in Going Deep, and I knew there was going to be a story there, but I hadn't figured it out yet. Celeste's reaction to seeing him was the perfect foreshadow.
Now we jump into On the Surface. Holy emotions! We finally get Celeste's full backstory and that poor girl was put through the proverbial ringer. And Jase... Sweet, single daddy, hot, panty melting Jase! I like to say if I still had my ovaries they would have exploded.
On the Surface is everything we've come to expect from a Nikki Ash book: a lot of humor, a lot of heat, low drama, and a lot of love.
June 12, 2019
This is basically my thought process on this one...
Nikki Ash wrote a book? Sign me up!
It's a second chance romance? Gimme!
It's a single dad trope?! OMG, I NEED IT NOW!
I think I was in the minority when I didn't hate Celeste at the end of The Pickup (and Going Deep). I didn't really care for her but I definitely didn't hate her. I felt she was misunderstood and I couldn't wait to read her story. I wanted to dive into her background and find out how she ended up the way she did. Why was she cast as the villain? I needed to get inside her head! (I blame my current obsession with serial killers and psychology for that.. LOL)
Jase and Celeste, man... they are something else.
I really enjoyed reading their story.
There were a couple things that didn't personally work for me but it was a good story. I mean, it's a sexy, tattooed, single dad, what's not to love??
Nikki Ash wrote a book? Sign me up!
It's a second chance romance? Gimme!
It's a single dad trope?! OMG, I NEED IT NOW!
I think I was in the minority when I didn't hate Celeste at the end of The Pickup (and Going Deep). I didn't really care for her but I definitely didn't hate her. I felt she was misunderstood and I couldn't wait to read her story. I wanted to dive into her background and find out how she ended up the way she did. Why was she cast as the villain? I needed to get inside her head! (I blame my current obsession with serial killers and psychology for that.. LOL)
Jase and Celeste, man... they are something else.
I really enjoyed reading their story.
There were a couple things that didn't personally work for me but it was a good story. I mean, it's a sexy, tattooed, single dad, what's not to love??
June 12, 2019
I tried to let my heart settle before I wrote this review, but I can't. I can't let this story go. I keep running it through my mind over and over, and the feels just wont go away.
I went into this story ready and fully waiting to embrace Jase and all his bad boy tattoo artist glory. Because who doesn't love or want a bad boy? But Jase showed a completely different side of himself that I was not waiting for. It can't believe I will say this but he gave my favorite Nikki Ash man a run for his money. With Killian I swooned...so hard. But with Jase...Jase made my heart soar. His heart..oh man his heart. We need more men like this!
In book one of this series, The Pick Up, I didnt like Celeste. Like AT ALL. Borderline hate even. Book 2, Going Deep, had me seconding guess my feels for a bit, but not completely. I still didnt like her. But this book...this book changed it all!
"And from the chaos of her soul flowed beauty."
To say that Nikki Ash blew me away, is a complete understatement. She made me fall in love with a character I didn't want to. She made me cry for her when I didn't think it was ever possible. She has opened my eyes to see that what broken people show on the surface isn't always the heart of things. There is so much more.
THIS was so much more.
I went into this story ready and fully waiting to embrace Jase and all his bad boy tattoo artist glory. Because who doesn't love or want a bad boy? But Jase showed a completely different side of himself that I was not waiting for. It can't believe I will say this but he gave my favorite Nikki Ash man a run for his money. With Killian I swooned...so hard. But with Jase...Jase made my heart soar. His heart..oh man his heart. We need more men like this!
In book one of this series, The Pick Up, I didnt like Celeste. Like AT ALL. Borderline hate even. Book 2, Going Deep, had me seconding guess my feels for a bit, but not completely. I still didnt like her. But this book...this book changed it all!
"And from the chaos of her soul flowed beauty."
To say that Nikki Ash blew me away, is a complete understatement. She made me fall in love with a character I didn't want to. She made me cry for her when I didn't think it was ever possible. She has opened my eyes to see that what broken people show on the surface isn't always the heart of things. There is so much more.
THIS was so much more.
April 28, 2020
Celeste has achieved everything she wanted. She always want to get out of poverty to become a famous model, and she has not only achieved that, she is a great designer and businesswoman. But her relationships with men are cold, always dating wealthy but very busy men, always claiming that she is too busy for love, but not always it was like this.
“I told you once, and I’ll tell you again,” I say, “the world revolves around money and status, and until you accept that, you’re going to keep getting your heart broken and being disappointed.” While Nick is looking for love—some non-existent soulmate to give his sappy heart to—I’m looking for a future.
Just before graduating and going to NY to fulfill her dreams, Nick, her best friend, takes her to a party where she meets Jase. Lust at first sight.
We lay together in silence for a few minutes, and then Jase murmurs, “I’ve never felt anything like this. I’ve been with my fair share of women, but I’ve never felt this connection. I know we’ve only just met, but tell me you feel it too.”
“Nobody would know if you got one here,” he states. His fingers trail down to just above the crack of my ass. “Or here.” He continues his descent along the center of my ass. Then he spreads my legs open and pushes a single finger into my pussy. “Nobody should ever see these parts of your body. They’re mine,” he growls lowly. “This body, and this pussy, is mine.” He pulls his finger out of me, and I immediately miss his touch. “It’s a little soon to be claiming me, don’t you think?” I sass. “Nope, you made it mine the moment you let me take your virginity,” he says matter-of-factly, and my cheeks flush at his words. “What are you doing to me?” he murmurs against my lips. “All my sanity flies out the window with you.” “Because you forgot to use a condom?” I ask, confused. “I never bring women back here. Not to my apartment, not to meet my family, and definitely not into my bed.”
For a week they spend the days and nights together. In such short space of time they have both fallen in love, to the point that Celeste doubts their plans and wants to include Jase in their future plans. She always dreamed marrying a rich man and has fallen in love with a tattoo artist. But when one night she goes to his home to tell him her plans, she finds a naked woman in his bed and he comes out of the bathroom with only a towel and she imagines the worst. Hurt, she packs up and leaves.
“She didn’t get away,” I snap, slamming the glass down. “She left. And she was nothing more than a fuck.” Jax’s eyes go wide, but he isn’t looking at me. He’s looking just past me. When I turn to see who, or what, he’s looking at, Celeste is standing there, frozen in place. I could be wrong, but I’m almost positive she has tears in her eyes.
10 years later they meet again on Giselle’s birthday when Giselle is going to get a tattoo at his shop. Celeste did not know that Jase had moved to NY, she gets angry and leaves the shop.
They meet again at Nick’s wedding where they end up having hot bathroom sex.
“Celeste,” he murmurs, and I open my eyes. “I didn’t sleep with her,” he repeats. “You were all I wanted.”“That night I was coming over to tell you about New York. I was going to ask you to go with me.” A huge lump fills my throat. “You were going to ask me to go?” Jase’s eyes lock with mine. “Dimples.” My nickname leaves Jase’s mouth like a prayer. “I never would’ve let you go.”
And although many things have changed in their lives ( Jase is the father of a teenager) their feelings do not, their love blossoms again. But also Celeste’s fears and insecurities.
“I’m just learning how to love Jase. I can’t be responsible for both of their hearts. I can’t fail them both.”
❤️❤️❤️the story and the characters, only Jax’s story left.
“And from the chaos of her soul flowed beauty.”
“I told you once, and I’ll tell you again,” I say, “the world revolves around money and status, and until you accept that, you’re going to keep getting your heart broken and being disappointed.” While Nick is looking for love—some non-existent soulmate to give his sappy heart to—I’m looking for a future.
Just before graduating and going to NY to fulfill her dreams, Nick, her best friend, takes her to a party where she meets Jase. Lust at first sight.
We lay together in silence for a few minutes, and then Jase murmurs, “I’ve never felt anything like this. I’ve been with my fair share of women, but I’ve never felt this connection. I know we’ve only just met, but tell me you feel it too.”
“Nobody would know if you got one here,” he states. His fingers trail down to just above the crack of my ass. “Or here.” He continues his descent along the center of my ass. Then he spreads my legs open and pushes a single finger into my pussy. “Nobody should ever see these parts of your body. They’re mine,” he growls lowly. “This body, and this pussy, is mine.” He pulls his finger out of me, and I immediately miss his touch. “It’s a little soon to be claiming me, don’t you think?” I sass. “Nope, you made it mine the moment you let me take your virginity,” he says matter-of-factly, and my cheeks flush at his words. “What are you doing to me?” he murmurs against my lips. “All my sanity flies out the window with you.” “Because you forgot to use a condom?” I ask, confused. “I never bring women back here. Not to my apartment, not to meet my family, and definitely not into my bed.”
For a week they spend the days and nights together. In such short space of time they have both fallen in love, to the point that Celeste doubts their plans and wants to include Jase in their future plans. She always dreamed marrying a rich man and has fallen in love with a tattoo artist. But when one night she goes to his home to tell him her plans, she finds a naked woman in his bed and he comes out of the bathroom with only a towel and she imagines the worst. Hurt, she packs up and leaves.
“She didn’t get away,” I snap, slamming the glass down. “She left. And she was nothing more than a fuck.” Jax’s eyes go wide, but he isn’t looking at me. He’s looking just past me. When I turn to see who, or what, he’s looking at, Celeste is standing there, frozen in place. I could be wrong, but I’m almost positive she has tears in her eyes.
10 years later they meet again on Giselle’s birthday when Giselle is going to get a tattoo at his shop. Celeste did not know that Jase had moved to NY, she gets angry and leaves the shop.
They meet again at Nick’s wedding where they end up having hot bathroom sex.
“Celeste,” he murmurs, and I open my eyes. “I didn’t sleep with her,” he repeats. “You were all I wanted.”“That night I was coming over to tell you about New York. I was going to ask you to go with me.” A huge lump fills my throat. “You were going to ask me to go?” Jase’s eyes lock with mine. “Dimples.” My nickname leaves Jase’s mouth like a prayer. “I never would’ve let you go.”
And although many things have changed in their lives ( Jase is the father of a teenager) their feelings do not, their love blossoms again. But also Celeste’s fears and insecurities.
“I’m just learning how to love Jase. I can’t be responsible for both of their hearts. I can’t fail them both.”
❤️❤️❤️the story and the characters, only Jax’s story left.
“And from the chaos of her soul flowed beauty.”
June 11, 2024
“The scariest part of
finally getting what you want is the fear of losing it. When you have
nothing, there’s nothing to lose, but once you do, once you’ve gotten what
you’ve dreamed of, you now have everything to lose"
finally getting what you want is the fear of losing it. When you have
nothing, there’s nothing to lose, but once you do, once you’ve gotten what
you’ve dreamed of, you now have everything to lose"
June 21, 2019
***5 ‘Dandelion’ Stars***
I knew Celeste’s story would be a good one, but this was more.
So. Much. More than good. It was awesome! The swoons and big dopey cheek hurting grins were numerous, as were the heartbreaking and heart mending ones...and then you add in the smexy...let me tell you this book had it all and more!
So, Celeste. Let’s be real. She was an evil queen incarnate when I first met her in The Pick Up, and I have to admit that because she was, she absolutely fascinated me and there was that knowing that there was so much more to her that I NEEDED to know more about her and does this book give you all that. It doesn’t forgive her bitchness, but it does explain it and as I got to see the real Celeste, I ended up adoring her. She is kind and caring, but she is also a hardass and knows how to play the game and I loved seeing both sides of her become one as she worked through the issues of the past.
Jase. Ink’d up “bad boy” on the outside, sweet, caring, almost marshmallow like goodness on the inside ~ but all wrapped up tight in a protective smexy as sin alpha male package (does that even make sense?? LOL). I mean, talk about being my kind of book boyfriend.
As for their journey to their HEA. I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of it. I loved their bantering, the smexy was nuclear and just enjoyed how they actually communicated with each other after they worked through what happened in the past. But what got me, both times around, was how much fun it was to be around them and it was because they simply flowed well together. They, for all their differences, we perfect for each other on every level.
This may just be my fav of the series (so, far...will there be more??) Jase and Celeste were awesome and I loved catching up with Nick, Olivia, Reed, Killian and Giselle and seeing how close they’ve all gotten. And then there are Jax, Quinn and Skyla, I’m crossing my toes they all get their own books because they definitely need some good ole HEA loving too.
As noted at the bottom of the books description, On the Surface can be read as a standalone, and it can, but I highly recommend that you start at the beginning and read both The Pick Up & Going Deep so you fully understand the dynamic between all the characters and why certain things garner a certain reaction.
~ Copy provided by Enticing Journey & voluntarily reviewed ~
I knew Celeste’s story would be a good one, but this was more.
So. Much. More than good. It was awesome! The swoons and big dopey cheek hurting grins were numerous, as were the heartbreaking and heart mending ones...and then you add in the smexy...let me tell you this book had it all and more!
So, Celeste. Let’s be real. She was an evil queen incarnate when I first met her in The Pick Up, and I have to admit that because she was, she absolutely fascinated me and there was that knowing that there was so much more to her that I NEEDED to know more about her and does this book give you all that. It doesn’t forgive her bitchness, but it does explain it and as I got to see the real Celeste, I ended up adoring her. She is kind and caring, but she is also a hardass and knows how to play the game and I loved seeing both sides of her become one as she worked through the issues of the past.
Jase. Ink’d up “bad boy” on the outside, sweet, caring, almost marshmallow like goodness on the inside ~ but all wrapped up tight in a protective smexy as sin alpha male package (does that even make sense?? LOL). I mean, talk about being my kind of book boyfriend.
As for their journey to their HEA. I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of it. I loved their bantering, the smexy was nuclear and just enjoyed how they actually communicated with each other after they worked through what happened in the past. But what got me, both times around, was how much fun it was to be around them and it was because they simply flowed well together. They, for all their differences, we perfect for each other on every level.
This may just be my fav of the series (so, far...will there be more??) Jase and Celeste were awesome and I loved catching up with Nick, Olivia, Reed, Killian and Giselle and seeing how close they’ve all gotten. And then there are Jax, Quinn and Skyla, I’m crossing my toes they all get their own books because they definitely need some good ole HEA loving too.
As noted at the bottom of the books description, On the Surface can be read as a standalone, and it can, but I highly recommend that you start at the beginning and read both The Pick Up & Going Deep so you fully understand the dynamic between all the characters and why certain things garner a certain reaction.
~ Copy provided by Enticing Journey & voluntarily reviewed ~
June 10, 2019
5 exceptional stars!
Review by Nancy
Late Night Reviewer
Up All Night w/ Books Blog
Another exceptional read! On The Surface is hands down one of my favorite single parent, second chance romance novels. Nikki Ash not only wrote an amazing story, she turned me into mush.
On The Surface is the third book in the Imperfect Love series. If you have read the previous books, which you should, you probably thought the same way I did, there is no way Nikki Ash was going to make me like the heroine. Not only did I end up liking her, but by the end of the book, she became one of my favorite heroines.
Celeste grew up in a broken home, she never met her dad and her mom was too busy being drunk. From a very early age, she learned that the key to her happiness was going to be money. As she got older her dreams became more ambitious. She thought the only way to get out of her home situation was to find a wealthy man to marry. Love was never in the picture. Her view on love had been tarnished by her mother and no one would change that. Except she did fall in love, it happened when she was only eighteen. She fell in love hard and fast. She was willing to give up all her dreams and ambitions for the one she thought she loved until he broke her heart.
Jase was absolutely dreamy! He looked like your typical bad boy, but he was far from it. Also from a broken home, he went to school, opened his own business, and took care of his siblings. Jase had everything he could want, including a teenage daughter. The only thing that was missing from his life was a significant other. He had found love once, only to have her run away without an explanation or a second glance. Ever since “the one that got away” he had dated and had been in short relationships, but his heart always belonged to her.
One misunderstanding destroyed what could have been an everlasting love. Years later Celeste and Jase are brought together by mutual friends. To their surprise the chemistry they once had had only intensified as the years passed. Both had suffered hardships and grown since the last time they had seen each other.
Could it be as easy as just re-connecting? They once thought they had fallen in love and lost it, this was their second chance at that everlasting love. But now there was a third person to consider, Jase had a daughter. In order for their relationship to work, they had to learn to love and accept the changes that came with the time they spent apart.
Nikki Ash could not have written Celeste and Jase’s story any better! It was an absolute page turner, probably my favorite book in the series. I love that we got a glimpse of the other couples from the two previous books, but more than that, I loved that she gave us more on Jase’s brother and sister. I can NOT wait to see what Nikki Ash writes next!
***ARC provided by the author for an honest review***
Review by Nancy
Late Night Reviewer
Up All Night w/ Books Blog
Another exceptional read! On The Surface is hands down one of my favorite single parent, second chance romance novels. Nikki Ash not only wrote an amazing story, she turned me into mush.
On The Surface is the third book in the Imperfect Love series. If you have read the previous books, which you should, you probably thought the same way I did, there is no way Nikki Ash was going to make me like the heroine. Not only did I end up liking her, but by the end of the book, she became one of my favorite heroines.
Celeste grew up in a broken home, she never met her dad and her mom was too busy being drunk. From a very early age, she learned that the key to her happiness was going to be money. As she got older her dreams became more ambitious. She thought the only way to get out of her home situation was to find a wealthy man to marry. Love was never in the picture. Her view on love had been tarnished by her mother and no one would change that. Except she did fall in love, it happened when she was only eighteen. She fell in love hard and fast. She was willing to give up all her dreams and ambitions for the one she thought she loved until he broke her heart.
Jase was absolutely dreamy! He looked like your typical bad boy, but he was far from it. Also from a broken home, he went to school, opened his own business, and took care of his siblings. Jase had everything he could want, including a teenage daughter. The only thing that was missing from his life was a significant other. He had found love once, only to have her run away without an explanation or a second glance. Ever since “the one that got away” he had dated and had been in short relationships, but his heart always belonged to her.
One misunderstanding destroyed what could have been an everlasting love. Years later Celeste and Jase are brought together by mutual friends. To their surprise the chemistry they once had had only intensified as the years passed. Both had suffered hardships and grown since the last time they had seen each other.
Could it be as easy as just re-connecting? They once thought they had fallen in love and lost it, this was their second chance at that everlasting love. But now there was a third person to consider, Jase had a daughter. In order for their relationship to work, they had to learn to love and accept the changes that came with the time they spent apart.
Nikki Ash could not have written Celeste and Jase’s story any better! It was an absolute page turner, probably my favorite book in the series. I love that we got a glimpse of the other couples from the two previous books, but more than that, I loved that she gave us more on Jase’s brother and sister. I can NOT wait to see what Nikki Ash writes next!
***ARC provided by the author for an honest review***
June 19, 2019
My my my this author always has a way of cutting me in the most beautiful ways. When it came to Jace and Celeste you can’t help but root them on. Seeing them cope with their issues, seeing them move on from misunderstandings, seeing them fall deeper and deeper in love was something you shouldn’t miss. I loved so much about Jace but won’t go into details because I don’t like spoiling but he was such an amazing man. He didn’t care that Celeste made more then him, he didn’t make her beg for his forgiveness, he moved forward and just lived.
There were scenes in this book that brought tears to my eyes, and I will say that I should expect that from her writing. It was filled with heart and mild drama, but I was never mad at the characters. I loved seeing my favorites and getting a better look at others. I can’t wait for the next book in this series. I think the author is going to rip my heart out and I personally can’t wait. 5 stars #2OCCJD
There were scenes in this book that brought tears to my eyes, and I will say that I should expect that from her writing. It was filled with heart and mild drama, but I was never mad at the characters. I loved seeing my favorites and getting a better look at others. I can’t wait for the next book in this series. I think the author is going to rip my heart out and I personally can’t wait. 5 stars #2OCCJD
June 22, 2019
Gah!! Swoon hard book! Reconnecting after a misunderstanding and igniting the flame with so much passion! Babies galore! Wonderful story!
May 22, 2019
What can I say... Am I surprised On the Surface is another unputdownable book by Nikki Ash? Nope! But I'm definitely surprised how Jase and Celeste's story turned out. These two will take you on an unforgettable, enemies to lovers/ second chance romance ride. The feels from this book right from the start will have you popping out the wine within the first chapter and maybe some chocolate will follow too. The chemistry from these character had me at the edge of my seat, unable to stop turning the pages.
I already knew Jase was going to be one hot mofo, but Nikki exceeded my expectations with the cocky tattoo artist. All I will say is, you might want to have an extra set of undies on hand with this one. I know I want my very own Jase!
Celeste was definitely the most surprising character, and not how I thought she'd be like. Like most of Nikki's heroines, Celeste is one I can see myself hanging out with. Shes strong, independent, determined and ambitious. Girl works hard for to reach her goals, that's for sure. Loved her so much!
This must read is book #3 of the Imperfect Love series. Can be read as a standalone, but still recommend reading the other books in the series, as they're all interconnected. Amazingly written in dual POV, this single dad romance will keep you wanting more. Can't wait to see what other gems Nikki's got plotting next.
I already knew Jase was going to be one hot mofo, but Nikki exceeded my expectations with the cocky tattoo artist. All I will say is, you might want to have an extra set of undies on hand with this one. I know I want my very own Jase!
Celeste was definitely the most surprising character, and not how I thought she'd be like. Like most of Nikki's heroines, Celeste is one I can see myself hanging out with. Shes strong, independent, determined and ambitious. Girl works hard for to reach her goals, that's for sure. Loved her so much!
This must read is book #3 of the Imperfect Love series. Can be read as a standalone, but still recommend reading the other books in the series, as they're all interconnected. Amazingly written in dual POV, this single dad romance will keep you wanting more. Can't wait to see what other gems Nikki's got plotting next.
July 12, 2019
4 ⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Liked it!
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I don’t even realize I’m full-on crying until Nick swipes a falling tear with his thumb. “Celeste, I know this is what you want, but trust me when I say, being famous isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. Everybody is so damn fake.”
According to my mom, he was a member of some biker gang and went by the name of Snake—really classy, huh? He met my mom while passing through town.
“I’m not kissing and telling,” I say, “but I have two words for you: pierced dick.”
June 17, 2019
It’s interesting how you can meet a secondary character in a book, see only the top layer of that character and form an opinion. Then when her own book is written and all those deeper layers are revealed, it’s a completely different picture and the initial opinion is obliterated. It’s amazing to me how an author can make a reader love a character she thought she hated, and wow, what a terrific life lesson, as well.
If you met Celeste in either Nick or Killian's books, like me, you probably didn’t like her character very much. She’s a top fashion model with her own clothing line and she comes across as arrogant, cutthroat and ruthless, even in her social interactions. But there is so, so much more to her! She's the poor, “trailer trash” child of a single mom, and Celeste did more parenting and handling of responsibilities than her mother. But Celeste had hopes and dreams, and she worked hard and created her own success.
The only place she isn’t successful is when it comes to love, but Celeste learned a long time ago to protect her heart. Her mother's staying stuck in the past and pining for a man for eighteen years was a good lesson on love to Celeste, but the best lesson was a glorious week falling for a guy and the betrayal that followed right before Celeste moved to New York to start her career. Imagine her surprise, eleven years later, when Celeste walks into a tattoo shop with her friends and comes face to face with Jase, the one who broke her heart.
Jase can have my heart to do with it whatever he pleases, because this guy had me swooning from the very beginning. Jase ticked all the boxes for me and is everything I love in a romance hero. Strong family values, sturdy moral compass, a phenomenal dad, a heart of gold that is quick to forgive, and a believer in second chances. Add to that his rugged, muscular, tattooed exterior -- gah! And he's absolutely perfect for Celeste and exactly what she needs. He knows when to push and when to step back and wait, always supporting her and steadfast in his love.
Ash has certainly moved the bar higher with this book. Easily the best book in the series so far with more humor, more steam and so much more heart! It felt like coming home to meet up with these characters again, and this story held me in its clutches from the first word to the last. I love everything about this one, and love it hard, and I can’t wait for the next book in the series about Jase's sister, Quinn! On the Surface is everything a contemporary romance should be, and you don’t want to miss this heartfelt, feel-good, phenomenal read!
*I reviewed an advance copy of this book freely and voluntarily, having made no commitment to provide a review and receiving no compensation of any kind from any source for this review.
If you met Celeste in either Nick or Killian's books, like me, you probably didn’t like her character very much. She’s a top fashion model with her own clothing line and she comes across as arrogant, cutthroat and ruthless, even in her social interactions. But there is so, so much more to her! She's the poor, “trailer trash” child of a single mom, and Celeste did more parenting and handling of responsibilities than her mother. But Celeste had hopes and dreams, and she worked hard and created her own success.
The only place she isn’t successful is when it comes to love, but Celeste learned a long time ago to protect her heart. Her mother's staying stuck in the past and pining for a man for eighteen years was a good lesson on love to Celeste, but the best lesson was a glorious week falling for a guy and the betrayal that followed right before Celeste moved to New York to start her career. Imagine her surprise, eleven years later, when Celeste walks into a tattoo shop with her friends and comes face to face with Jase, the one who broke her heart.
Jase can have my heart to do with it whatever he pleases, because this guy had me swooning from the very beginning. Jase ticked all the boxes for me and is everything I love in a romance hero. Strong family values, sturdy moral compass, a phenomenal dad, a heart of gold that is quick to forgive, and a believer in second chances. Add to that his rugged, muscular, tattooed exterior -- gah! And he's absolutely perfect for Celeste and exactly what she needs. He knows when to push and when to step back and wait, always supporting her and steadfast in his love.
Ash has certainly moved the bar higher with this book. Easily the best book in the series so far with more humor, more steam and so much more heart! It felt like coming home to meet up with these characters again, and this story held me in its clutches from the first word to the last. I love everything about this one, and love it hard, and I can’t wait for the next book in the series about Jase's sister, Quinn! On the Surface is everything a contemporary romance should be, and you don’t want to miss this heartfelt, feel-good, phenomenal read!
*I reviewed an advance copy of this book freely and voluntarily, having made no commitment to provide a review and receiving no compensation of any kind from any source for this review.
June 21, 2019
💖💖 My most highly anticipated book of this series! 💖💖
I absolutely LOVED Celeste and Jase’s book. I can’t even adequately describe how much I looked forward to reading it! As Nikki Ash put out each book in this series, I thought I’d anticipated my most wanted read, but the anticipation grew, until it was this book that I couldn’t wait for. And it lived up to every anticipated word.
On The Surface can be read as a stand-a-lone, absolutely. But, the characters are so wonderful, that you really will want to read The Pickup and Going Deep first. The secondary characters are reasonably prominent throughout the series, as best friends often are in our own lives, and many readers had formed opinions about Celeste going into this book.
Celeste is firm minded, a top model, and now a successful businesswoman, who seems all about material things and money. She’s also deep and complicated. It wasn’t so much that I didn’t like her, but rather that there had to be more to her than she showed us, merely because Nick was the most gorgeous and loyal of men. They’d grown up together, and she was one of his best friends. There had to be more to her! What no one realised was the Celeste and Jase had history.
Tatted up and sexy Jase is now probably my favourite best book boyfriend. He’s a beautiful man through to his soul, close with his siblings, and such an amazing father Nikki’s writing is so powerful, that the few words where Jase tells Celeste about his mum and his special memory of her, had me burst into tears. TBH, I was gutted for Celeste to read the blurb and find that he was a single father, but as always, there is so much going on under the surface.
Together they were dynamic. Their relationship is every reason why I love Nikki’s books and read romances. The chemistry between them is so strong and sexy, that I almost took up smoking.
To say that I highly recommend this book, hell this series even, is an understatement. Just treat yourself and grab them. 5 steamy stars!
I absolutely LOVED Celeste and Jase’s book. I can’t even adequately describe how much I looked forward to reading it! As Nikki Ash put out each book in this series, I thought I’d anticipated my most wanted read, but the anticipation grew, until it was this book that I couldn’t wait for. And it lived up to every anticipated word.
On The Surface can be read as a stand-a-lone, absolutely. But, the characters are so wonderful, that you really will want to read The Pickup and Going Deep first. The secondary characters are reasonably prominent throughout the series, as best friends often are in our own lives, and many readers had formed opinions about Celeste going into this book.
Celeste is firm minded, a top model, and now a successful businesswoman, who seems all about material things and money. She’s also deep and complicated. It wasn’t so much that I didn’t like her, but rather that there had to be more to her than she showed us, merely because Nick was the most gorgeous and loyal of men. They’d grown up together, and she was one of his best friends. There had to be more to her! What no one realised was the Celeste and Jase had history.
Tatted up and sexy Jase is now probably my favourite best book boyfriend. He’s a beautiful man through to his soul, close with his siblings, and such an amazing father Nikki’s writing is so powerful, that the few words where Jase tells Celeste about his mum and his special memory of her, had me burst into tears. TBH, I was gutted for Celeste to read the blurb and find that he was a single father, but as always, there is so much going on under the surface.
Together they were dynamic. Their relationship is every reason why I love Nikki’s books and read romances. The chemistry between them is so strong and sexy, that I almost took up smoking.
To say that I highly recommend this book, hell this series even, is an understatement. Just treat yourself and grab them. 5 steamy stars!
June 23, 2019
I think there may be something wrong with me... *sniffs*
*looks startled*
Oi, there is no need to get personal! I know on a normal day I’m a sandwich short of a picnic, but you love me really, don’t you?! *snorts*
Right, where was I?
Ah, okay...
As I was trying to say – before I was rudely interrupted *rolls eyes* – I’m a sucker for those second chance love stories that make you feel as if you’ve been flayed alive. Whaaa? *nods* Yup, you know it! I am a special kind of twisted *winks*
For me, OTS has a ‘Sliding Doors’ feel to it. What if this happened? What if that happened? Life is full of ‘What ifs?’ but I’m a firm believer in fate and timing. Jase and Celeste’s timing wasn’t right the first time. They had to travel different paths in life before they found their way back to one another. Sheesh, I’m like Cliché Central today *smirks*
Nikki Ash is a new-to-me 2019 author and she has passed my ‘Screaming at my Kindle’ test. Yup, she’s a keeper!
Celeste is one of those characters that comes across as abrasive at first meeting. She has a will to succeed. To prove to the world her upbringing will not define her. Love is an anathema. Yet, if you look, I mean really look, you’ll see she has the capacity for boundless love. The phrase ‘She doth protest too much!’ springs to mind. She just needs someone to break through her defences to the vulnerable woman beneath that just wants to be loved.
*sigh*
*wipes tear*
Jase - what can I say about Jase? I won’t forget him in a hurry – let’s put it that way *winks* He could pin me to the wall anytime *snorts* He is a man with a lot of responsibilities: single dad, business owner, loving older brother. He has never forgotten Celeste and he is determined to show her she is deserving of everything her heart desires.
*sighs*
So, hands up who’s ready to run The Emotional Gamut 5k with me?
Let’s do it!
*looks startled*
Oi, there is no need to get personal! I know on a normal day I’m a sandwich short of a picnic, but you love me really, don’t you?! *snorts*
Right, where was I?
Ah, okay...
As I was trying to say – before I was rudely interrupted *rolls eyes* – I’m a sucker for those second chance love stories that make you feel as if you’ve been flayed alive. Whaaa? *nods* Yup, you know it! I am a special kind of twisted *winks*
For me, OTS has a ‘Sliding Doors’ feel to it. What if this happened? What if that happened? Life is full of ‘What ifs?’ but I’m a firm believer in fate and timing. Jase and Celeste’s timing wasn’t right the first time. They had to travel different paths in life before they found their way back to one another. Sheesh, I’m like Cliché Central today *smirks*
Nikki Ash is a new-to-me 2019 author and she has passed my ‘Screaming at my Kindle’ test. Yup, she’s a keeper!
Celeste is one of those characters that comes across as abrasive at first meeting. She has a will to succeed. To prove to the world her upbringing will not define her. Love is an anathema. Yet, if you look, I mean really look, you’ll see she has the capacity for boundless love. The phrase ‘She doth protest too much!’ springs to mind. She just needs someone to break through her defences to the vulnerable woman beneath that just wants to be loved.
*sigh*
*wipes tear*
Jase - what can I say about Jase? I won’t forget him in a hurry – let’s put it that way *winks* He could pin me to the wall anytime *snorts* He is a man with a lot of responsibilities: single dad, business owner, loving older brother. He has never forgotten Celeste and he is determined to show her she is deserving of everything her heart desires.
*sighs*
So, hands up who’s ready to run The Emotional Gamut 5k with me?
Let’s do it!
January 2, 2021
⭐️ 5 "Dimples" Stars ⭐️
I finally got to read Celeste’s story and… wow! On the Surface is without a doubt my favorite novel so far in the Imperfect Love Series. Nikki Ash achieved to transform a heroine I didn’t like at first (in the first standalone novel The Pick Up) into such a phenomenal one! I loved her so much and what can I say about Jase! That man is really swoon-worthy! Their romance is a beautiful second chance romance bursting with feels!
"𝙄 𝙙𝙤𝙣’𝙩 𝙙𝙤𝙪𝙗𝙩 𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙙𝙖𝙮 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙦𝙪𝙚𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙡𝙙, 𝘿𝙞𝙢𝙥𝙡𝙚𝙨.”
They first meet when Celeste is only eighteen and it’s love at first sight. After an abrupt end to their one-week relationship, they meet eleven years later and the feelings are still so strong.
Celeste is such an independent, strong and determined woman. From a trailer park girl to the elite of the fashion world, Celeste is an example of determination and drive! On a personal level though, she’s still plagued by fear of love from her past. Jase is the perfect man to make her change and her embrace these feelings though. He’s attentive, sexy, confident and sweet! He looks like a bad boy with all his tattoos, but he’s so much more! Though he can act like a real prince charming, he also hides a dirty side in the throes of passion. Those two share so many incredibly HOT encounters. They’re so combustible and fantastic to watch explode in sexiness.
As this novel is part of a series, it was amazing to see more of Olivia, Nick, Giselle and Killian. Their love stories are so pretty too! I also enjoyed meeting new protagonists like Jax and Quinn, Jase’s siblings. They’re so supporting and a tight group! And let’s not forget one of the central part of this novel, Skyla. She’s Jase’s teen daughter and I loved her so much with her bubbly personality and obsession with everything fashion.
“𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙘𝙖𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝙥𝙖𝙧𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝙛𝙞𝙣𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙮 𝙜𝙚𝙩𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙞𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙛𝙚𝙖𝙧 𝙤𝙛 𝙡𝙤𝙨𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙞𝙩. 𝙒𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙣𝙤𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜, 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚’𝙨 𝙣𝙤𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙤 𝙡𝙤𝙨𝙚, 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙤𝙣𝙘𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙙𝙤, 𝙤𝙣𝙘𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪’𝙫𝙚 𝙜𝙤𝙩𝙩𝙚𝙣 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪’𝙫𝙚 𝙙𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙢𝙚𝙙 𝙤𝙛, 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙣𝙤𝙬 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙤 𝙡𝙤𝙨𝙚.”
Obviously, this novel was a hit for me! I can never get enough of Nikki Ash’s exquisitely romantic stories!
June 15, 2019
Wow. Nikki Ash just keeps on impressing me! I loved this book so much! You can tell that this author puts her heart into every story.
Ok, so I'm not going to lie.....when we met Celeste in Nick's book, The Pick Up, book one in the series, I did not like her. Not at all! Then we are given more of her in Killian and Giselle's book. There I can admit I still wasn't on board with the "Celeste" train. She just was not a likable character. And do you know what? I'm glad the author kept her backstory from us until her own book. Celeste is a very complex character. There are many sides to her. But as the title implies, Celeste is just one persona on the surface. There is so much more to this woman. My admiration and respect for her grew expotentionally in my mind and in my heart. No, Celeste was not perfect. She did frustrate me now and again. But this time I understood where she was coming from. Fear is an emotion that has the potential to destroy us. I'm just glad that by the end of the book, Celeste decided to overcome most of her fears to have her happily-ever-after.
Now, Jase, swoon-worthy all the way. Even Jase is more that what you see on the surface. I loved his character from the moment we met him in the past. He was so perfect. If I had to dig deep to find any flaws he might have, I'd be unsuccessful. He was just everything I love in a book boyfriend.
Going into the book, you know these two have a past. And while it was a short one, there were very strong feelings involved. Unfortunately, something happens that separates them for ten years. So much time has passed but the hurt never left either. I'm not going to say they made up quickly because that would make this story a disappointment. The regrowth of their relationship was a slow one. Yes, they had hot chemistry and a few hot moments, but when it came to committing, there were issues that had to be dealt with.
But in the end, I couldn't have asked for a better "wrap-up." I'm not ready to say goodbye to these characters. I absolutely can't wait for Quinn's book. She is Jase's sister. I already know her story is going to be great.
This book is part of a series but can be read as a standalone. But trust me, you'll want to read the two books prior for a better reading experience.
This is my honest and unbiased review. Thank you taking the time to read it. :)
Ok, so I'm not going to lie.....when we met Celeste in Nick's book, The Pick Up, book one in the series, I did not like her. Not at all! Then we are given more of her in Killian and Giselle's book. There I can admit I still wasn't on board with the "Celeste" train. She just was not a likable character. And do you know what? I'm glad the author kept her backstory from us until her own book. Celeste is a very complex character. There are many sides to her. But as the title implies, Celeste is just one persona on the surface. There is so much more to this woman. My admiration and respect for her grew expotentionally in my mind and in my heart. No, Celeste was not perfect. She did frustrate me now and again. But this time I understood where she was coming from. Fear is an emotion that has the potential to destroy us. I'm just glad that by the end of the book, Celeste decided to overcome most of her fears to have her happily-ever-after.
Now, Jase, swoon-worthy all the way. Even Jase is more that what you see on the surface. I loved his character from the moment we met him in the past. He was so perfect. If I had to dig deep to find any flaws he might have, I'd be unsuccessful. He was just everything I love in a book boyfriend.
Going into the book, you know these two have a past. And while it was a short one, there were very strong feelings involved. Unfortunately, something happens that separates them for ten years. So much time has passed but the hurt never left either. I'm not going to say they made up quickly because that would make this story a disappointment. The regrowth of their relationship was a slow one. Yes, they had hot chemistry and a few hot moments, but when it came to committing, there were issues that had to be dealt with.
But in the end, I couldn't have asked for a better "wrap-up." I'm not ready to say goodbye to these characters. I absolutely can't wait for Quinn's book. She is Jase's sister. I already know her story is going to be great.
This book is part of a series but can be read as a standalone. But trust me, you'll want to read the two books prior for a better reading experience.
This is my honest and unbiased review. Thank you taking the time to read it. :)
June 19, 2019
*dies the death of pure happy*
STJFDGHYRD! NIKKI ASH I LOVE/HATE/LOVE YOU!
Ok, seriously, I’ll try to calm down. I probably won’t actually calm down. But I’ll try and that’s the best I can offer here while I’m still crying happy tears after finishing one of the most beautiful stories ever ok? I did not expect to love Celeste this much. I mean, I adore Nikki’s writing so I knew that she would win me over but I didn’t think I’d be sitting here saying Celeste is probably the character I love most in this series.
I can’t even begin to tell you how much more there is to her than anyone realizes. And even if I could I wouldn’t because this is truly something that you have to experience. The real Celeste that has been locked tightly away has one of the most beautifully loving souls I’ve ever read. And Jase? *sighs the sigh of swoon* heroes don’t get any better. And I also won’t be giving details on why he’s just as incredibly wonderful too.
I mean it. You have to pick this book up and live their story so you experience just how magical it is. I cried the ugliest of cries, I felt like my heart was going to explode at the sweetness in certain moments, I cheered so freaking hard for these two every time they overcame something. I was so deeply wrapped up in Jase and Celeste the world outside of this book ceased to exist for me.
STJFDGHYRD! NIKKI ASH I LOVE/HATE/LOVE YOU!
Ok, seriously, I’ll try to calm down. I probably won’t actually calm down. But I’ll try and that’s the best I can offer here while I’m still crying happy tears after finishing one of the most beautiful stories ever ok? I did not expect to love Celeste this much. I mean, I adore Nikki’s writing so I knew that she would win me over but I didn’t think I’d be sitting here saying Celeste is probably the character I love most in this series.
I can’t even begin to tell you how much more there is to her than anyone realizes. And even if I could I wouldn’t because this is truly something that you have to experience. The real Celeste that has been locked tightly away has one of the most beautifully loving souls I’ve ever read. And Jase? *sighs the sigh of swoon* heroes don’t get any better. And I also won’t be giving details on why he’s just as incredibly wonderful too.
I mean it. You have to pick this book up and live their story so you experience just how magical it is. I cried the ugliest of cries, I felt like my heart was going to explode at the sweetness in certain moments, I cheered so freaking hard for these two every time they overcame something. I was so deeply wrapped up in Jase and Celeste the world outside of this book ceased to exist for me.
June 22, 2019
Celeste had learnt two things as a child that the only person she can depend on is herself and that loving someone could have devastating consequences. She was determined to live a better life that included wealth and privilege but when she was 18 she met Jase. He was the one man she was willing to give everything up for until a misunderstanding occurred that left her a shell of the person she was.
Jase has a painful past of his own but he has created a life for himself as a tattoo artist and single father to this 13 year old daughter Skylar. He has never forgotten Celeste and believes that he is the one who was wronged but when she reappeared in his life it was as if they had never been apart.
This is an emotional story about love, healing and second chances. Hot chemistry and great characters, but it was the relationship between not only Celeste and Jase but the relationship that they both had with his daughter that makes this book the compelling story that it is.
Jase has a painful past of his own but he has created a life for himself as a tattoo artist and single father to this 13 year old daughter Skylar. He has never forgotten Celeste and believes that he is the one who was wronged but when she reappeared in his life it was as if they had never been apart.
This is an emotional story about love, healing and second chances. Hot chemistry and great characters, but it was the relationship between not only Celeste and Jase but the relationship that they both had with his daughter that makes this book the compelling story that it is.
June 24, 2019
Disclaimer: I stayed up “WAY TOO LATE” cause I couldn’t put this book down. Then I “HAD TO” write its review. Yes a terrible haunting was happening at the time and truthfully still is. My mind is continually spinning, reliving its telling. Now I am back and prettying up last nights ramblings. Ms. Ash this book is hands down my “FAVORITE” of yours. Gulp, sign and that takes “A LOT” for me to say cause your Fighting Series is “EVERYTHING”. (Hug) Yes I might have a lot of yelling going on as I try to tell you how I feel.
I am “MADLY IN LOVE” with this storyline. We have met Celeste and Jace in a previous book by Nikki Ash but it only skimmed the surface of who and what they are. Hee hee, like my word play there. I know, don’t quit my day job. They were each other’s first loves and misunderstandings tore them apart. Celeste goes on to live out her dreams of becoming a famous model and clothing designer. Go Girl! Jace is a tattoo artist (nummy). His daughter and her love of all things fashion is the icing on the cake and ties their world’s together in a magical way.
Celeste breaks my heart with her mistrust and issues from a neglected childhood. You feel her brokenness from the beginning. Jace has his own wounds though I can’t help but admire how he steps up in the dad department. A-MA-ZING!
One of my favorite parts and lines is in the beginning with Jasper makes a drawing for Celeste. It says “And from the chaos of her soul flowed beauty.” WTH. I am a mess now just thinking about it again. I am drowning in a puddle of emotions.
When you experience the “aa-ha” moments from Celeste and her momma, well lets say it was one of the most beautiful things I have read. Ugh I tear up thinking about it.
Celeste and Jasper take us on a bit of a ride trying to find their way to each other. I will confess the single parent trope is always a win-win. It certainly didn’t disappoint here. Oh it also doesn’t hurt that over the top sexy is woven into this story. Blink, blink, swallowed my tongue. EEEKKKK! SO GOOD!
Holy heck I hope I have not over-shared on this book. I am not a spoiler kind’a gal. Having said that, I could talk about it forever. If I could give this book more than five stars I would. Hope you all enjoy it as much as I did. Wink! Happy Reading Everyone!
I am “MADLY IN LOVE” with this storyline. We have met Celeste and Jace in a previous book by Nikki Ash but it only skimmed the surface of who and what they are. Hee hee, like my word play there. I know, don’t quit my day job. They were each other’s first loves and misunderstandings tore them apart. Celeste goes on to live out her dreams of becoming a famous model and clothing designer. Go Girl! Jace is a tattoo artist (nummy). His daughter and her love of all things fashion is the icing on the cake and ties their world’s together in a magical way.
Celeste breaks my heart with her mistrust and issues from a neglected childhood. You feel her brokenness from the beginning. Jace has his own wounds though I can’t help but admire how he steps up in the dad department. A-MA-ZING!
One of my favorite parts and lines is in the beginning with Jasper makes a drawing for Celeste. It says “And from the chaos of her soul flowed beauty.” WTH. I am a mess now just thinking about it again. I am drowning in a puddle of emotions.
When you experience the “aa-ha” moments from Celeste and her momma, well lets say it was one of the most beautiful things I have read. Ugh I tear up thinking about it.
Celeste and Jasper take us on a bit of a ride trying to find their way to each other. I will confess the single parent trope is always a win-win. It certainly didn’t disappoint here. Oh it also doesn’t hurt that over the top sexy is woven into this story. Blink, blink, swallowed my tongue. EEEKKKK! SO GOOD!
Holy heck I hope I have not over-shared on this book. I am not a spoiler kind’a gal. Having said that, I could talk about it forever. If I could give this book more than five stars I would. Hope you all enjoy it as much as I did. Wink! Happy Reading Everyone!
June 19, 2019
From the first time we met Celeste, I wasn't a fan of her, it wasn't that I didn't like her, it was more that I didn't understand her and now I get where she comes from, meaning how much she guards her heart.
Celeste and Jace met when they were young but even at their age they both knew what they wanted in life. Their paths were already different following their dreams but that didn't matter when it came to love.
After a few years, each of them have made their dreams come true but there is something they need to face, to get over it and go on with their lives.
Jace had enough with Celeste because right now it's not only his heart that is a risk, he have a more important person to take care of.
Celeste would need to make another hard decision and choose what is more important to her.
I enjoyed and loved their second chance story, I love the precious stories about Nick and Killian but Celeste and Jace became my favorite couple so far.
Celeste and Jace met when they were young but even at their age they both knew what they wanted in life. Their paths were already different following their dreams but that didn't matter when it came to love.
After a few years, each of them have made their dreams come true but there is something they need to face, to get over it and go on with their lives.
Jace had enough with Celeste because right now it's not only his heart that is a risk, he have a more important person to take care of.
Celeste would need to make another hard decision and choose what is more important to her.
I enjoyed and loved their second chance story, I love the precious stories about Nick and Killian but Celeste and Jace became my favorite couple so far.
June 13, 2019
Oh my gosh, just when I thought the series couldn’t get any more phenomenal than it already was, Nikki writes Celeste’s story and blows me out of the water. We first met Celeste in the first book in the series (The Pickup) and let’s just say she wasn’t everyone’s favourite character. She had a cold and distant personality and seemed more concerned with her career, than having personal relationships with others. In the second book (Going Deep), we got to see little glimpses of Celeste’s softer side and began to see that there was more to her than what appeared on the surface. When Celeste and Jase ran into each other in Going Deep, I knew from their reactions that there was an epic story to be told about them, and I was not disappointed.
Going into this story, I wasn’t sure if Celeste hurt Jase or if he ended up breaking her heart and that’s why she was the way she was. I loved getting an in depth look at Celeste’s past and fining out why she is this way. Jase is so sweet and swoon worthy and a single dad! He literally melted my heart. Celeste and Jase are literally a match made in heaven and it warmed my heart to see Celeste finally get her happy ending.
I loved this book so much. I couldn’t stop reading it but at the same time I didn’t want it to end. This is my favourite book in the series. I loved the swoon worthy moments, the tender and caring moments and being able to see all of my favourite characters from the past two novels.
Trust me, you need this book in your life!
Going into this story, I wasn’t sure if Celeste hurt Jase or if he ended up breaking her heart and that’s why she was the way she was. I loved getting an in depth look at Celeste’s past and fining out why she is this way. Jase is so sweet and swoon worthy and a single dad! He literally melted my heart. Celeste and Jase are literally a match made in heaven and it warmed my heart to see Celeste finally get her happy ending.
I loved this book so much. I couldn’t stop reading it but at the same time I didn’t want it to end. This is my favourite book in the series. I loved the swoon worthy moments, the tender and caring moments and being able to see all of my favourite characters from the past two novels.
Trust me, you need this book in your life!
June 9, 2019
On the Surface by Nikki Ash
“You see what you want to see, 5 stars”
Celeste is one of those what you see is what you get kind of women. She lets you make your own assumptions about her and lets very and I mean very few people into her circle. She’s one of those women who fought tooth and nail to get what she wanted and make a better life for herself. She thought she would never do love. But with all of her friends settling down and starting families she can’t help but long for it. She tried love once though and was burned…or was she?
Jase never expected Celeste to walk into his shop with her friends. But once you see someone you have history with its hard to ignore them and the questions that rise. No matter how bad they ended he’s still ridiculously proud of Celeste and the empire she’s built, just like she said she would. The timing wasn’t right for them then, but is it now? It’s not just him Celeste will have to accept but also his daughter is it worth the risk?
When we first met Celeste in The Pick-up we all kind of hated her. But in On the Surface Ash managed to completely redeem her. We find out why Celeste is the way she is, our questions are answered. Jase is the best kind of hero. He sees her, he sees below the surface of Celeste and understands her in a way not even her best friend does. Then you take his daughter into consideration. Skyla brings out a side of Celeste we never thought we would see from her. It probably helps they are alike. I loved On the Surface and think Ash knocked it out of the park. I cannot wait to see what she does with Quinn’s story.
Plot-5/5
Characters-5/5
Heat-5/5
Writing style-5/5
Overall-5/5
“You see what you want to see, 5 stars”
Celeste is one of those what you see is what you get kind of women. She lets you make your own assumptions about her and lets very and I mean very few people into her circle. She’s one of those women who fought tooth and nail to get what she wanted and make a better life for herself. She thought she would never do love. But with all of her friends settling down and starting families she can’t help but long for it. She tried love once though and was burned…or was she?
Jase never expected Celeste to walk into his shop with her friends. But once you see someone you have history with its hard to ignore them and the questions that rise. No matter how bad they ended he’s still ridiculously proud of Celeste and the empire she’s built, just like she said she would. The timing wasn’t right for them then, but is it now? It’s not just him Celeste will have to accept but also his daughter is it worth the risk?
When we first met Celeste in The Pick-up we all kind of hated her. But in On the Surface Ash managed to completely redeem her. We find out why Celeste is the way she is, our questions are answered. Jase is the best kind of hero. He sees her, he sees below the surface of Celeste and understands her in a way not even her best friend does. Then you take his daughter into consideration. Skyla brings out a side of Celeste we never thought we would see from her. It probably helps they are alike. I loved On the Surface and think Ash knocked it out of the park. I cannot wait to see what she does with Quinn’s story.
Plot-5/5
Characters-5/5
Heat-5/5
Writing style-5/5
Overall-5/5
August 28, 2019
Nikki Ash has done it again! She once again delivers a phenomenal story that left me speechless! I know I say this after every one of her books, but somehow it rains true, this is my favorite!
Celeste is my favorite Nikki Ash heroine if not character. When we first meet Celeste way back in The Pickup she's the bitchy fiance to Nick. We all know the real story but just in case you haven't read The Pickup you should!! She was introduced as the wicked witch in their fairytale, which she may have been a bit of that witch, but you just knew there was something else there. Some people are just assholes to be assholes it's just how the world works, but Celeste just never gave that vibe to me. However, I never would have guessed her story.
"Her love for my father destroyed her, and I refuse to ever be destroyed by a man."
Celeste one hundred percent believes that she will live her life believing the words above. Never wanting to end up like her mother, broken. Her mother's brokenness is the reason Celeste had to poor, loveless upbringing she did. Her mother spent her entire life waiting for a man who left her and never came back. She refused to better herself aways living on a hope that he would come back. Celeste was never a child, she was the adult in her house, and it definitely jaded her outlook on life. Her childhood makes me want to cry for her as a child or her lack of ever being a child. Drug addiction and alcohol addictions are huge problems in this world and for many children they are the adults in their homes. Nikki does a fantastic job at showing us what happens in a lot of homes.
Celeste and Jace meet when she is eighteen, and she falls in love with him after just a few short days together. A misunderstanding tears them apart and she never gets over it. Her ice cold heart because frozen and she refuses to even think of the idea of love. She channels that hurt and anger into become a worldwide phenomenon. Everything she always dreamed of having she gets, and she doesn't realize she wants more until she comes face to face with Jase again!
Let's be real it takes a special kind of guy to be able to stand next to Celeste and Jase Crawford is that guy. He's the hot AF, single dad, tattoo artist who knocks Celeste off her feet again. Jase never understood why Celeste just ran from him all those years ago, and coming face to face with her now brings all his old feelings back.
Jase and Celeste were beyond words hot, I wasn't sure if I should fan myself and keep reading, or hide under the table because they were going to explode. Ten years apart did nothing for their sexual tension but make it more intense. I love a good slow burn type of relationship, but holy hell the instant explosive kind that these two have was so much better.
Jase has a thirteen year old daughter who just adds so much to this story. She has this instant connection to Celeste, and yes I think it's originally because she knows who she is, but it doesn't take long to realize it's so much more than that!
"With her fancy makeup and designer clothes, she appears strong from up in her high-rise expensive condo. As if she's on top of the world. But hidden behind her makeup and clothes, behind the walls she's built up to protect herself, is a vulnerable, insecure women who just wants to be loved."
Hurt runs deep and sometimes we just don't know how to get over the hurt we feel. For Celeste it's the hurt from her mother, then it's the hurt of what she thought she saw with Jase. I know we can't blame our childhood on our behaviors, we are responsible for our own paths and all that. But Celeste's hurt doesn't make her a bad person it makes her driven and guarded. Celeste is absolutely terrified she doesn't know how to love because of how her mother was growing up. But she doesn't even know she's loving someone when she does. Her heart is just so much bigger and warmer than she realizes. She doesn't see the things that she does, she does because she loves. For someone who is so afraid to love, she does it so freely, and really without question.
Everything about OTS is just perfect! I love Celeste so much, and always knew there was way more under her surface that she showed. But for her it just took the right person to peel back her layers and really get to see it. Underneath all the makeup, expensive clothes, fancy condo is a woman with a broken heart who needed someone to love her for who she really is, the girl who grew up on the wrong side of town, in a trailer with a mother who was too stuck in he own hurt to b a mother.
When I was reading this book I was so stuck in the book I didn't notice anything else. I started the book and then stopped to get a drink and realized I was 76% in and I had no idea how it even happened. This book is that good! I give all the stars in the sky to Nikki Ash and On The Surface! I always feel all kinds of emotions when I read her books, and they always hit me in my heart but with Celeste she just I have no words. She is one of the realist characters you will ever read!
Celeste is my favorite Nikki Ash heroine if not character. When we first meet Celeste way back in The Pickup she's the bitchy fiance to Nick. We all know the real story but just in case you haven't read The Pickup you should!! She was introduced as the wicked witch in their fairytale, which she may have been a bit of that witch, but you just knew there was something else there. Some people are just assholes to be assholes it's just how the world works, but Celeste just never gave that vibe to me. However, I never would have guessed her story.
"Her love for my father destroyed her, and I refuse to ever be destroyed by a man."
Celeste one hundred percent believes that she will live her life believing the words above. Never wanting to end up like her mother, broken. Her mother's brokenness is the reason Celeste had to poor, loveless upbringing she did. Her mother spent her entire life waiting for a man who left her and never came back. She refused to better herself aways living on a hope that he would come back. Celeste was never a child, she was the adult in her house, and it definitely jaded her outlook on life. Her childhood makes me want to cry for her as a child or her lack of ever being a child. Drug addiction and alcohol addictions are huge problems in this world and for many children they are the adults in their homes. Nikki does a fantastic job at showing us what happens in a lot of homes.
Celeste and Jace meet when she is eighteen, and she falls in love with him after just a few short days together. A misunderstanding tears them apart and she never gets over it. Her ice cold heart because frozen and she refuses to even think of the idea of love. She channels that hurt and anger into become a worldwide phenomenon. Everything she always dreamed of having she gets, and she doesn't realize she wants more until she comes face to face with Jase again!
Let's be real it takes a special kind of guy to be able to stand next to Celeste and Jase Crawford is that guy. He's the hot AF, single dad, tattoo artist who knocks Celeste off her feet again. Jase never understood why Celeste just ran from him all those years ago, and coming face to face with her now brings all his old feelings back.
Jase and Celeste were beyond words hot, I wasn't sure if I should fan myself and keep reading, or hide under the table because they were going to explode. Ten years apart did nothing for their sexual tension but make it more intense. I love a good slow burn type of relationship, but holy hell the instant explosive kind that these two have was so much better.
Jase has a thirteen year old daughter who just adds so much to this story. She has this instant connection to Celeste, and yes I think it's originally because she knows who she is, but it doesn't take long to realize it's so much more than that!
"With her fancy makeup and designer clothes, she appears strong from up in her high-rise expensive condo. As if she's on top of the world. But hidden behind her makeup and clothes, behind the walls she's built up to protect herself, is a vulnerable, insecure women who just wants to be loved."
Hurt runs deep and sometimes we just don't know how to get over the hurt we feel. For Celeste it's the hurt from her mother, then it's the hurt of what she thought she saw with Jase. I know we can't blame our childhood on our behaviors, we are responsible for our own paths and all that. But Celeste's hurt doesn't make her a bad person it makes her driven and guarded. Celeste is absolutely terrified she doesn't know how to love because of how her mother was growing up. But she doesn't even know she's loving someone when she does. Her heart is just so much bigger and warmer than she realizes. She doesn't see the things that she does, she does because she loves. For someone who is so afraid to love, she does it so freely, and really without question.
Everything about OTS is just perfect! I love Celeste so much, and always knew there was way more under her surface that she showed. But for her it just took the right person to peel back her layers and really get to see it. Underneath all the makeup, expensive clothes, fancy condo is a woman with a broken heart who needed someone to love her for who she really is, the girl who grew up on the wrong side of town, in a trailer with a mother who was too stuck in he own hurt to b a mother.
When I was reading this book I was so stuck in the book I didn't notice anything else. I started the book and then stopped to get a drink and realized I was 76% in and I had no idea how it even happened. This book is that good! I give all the stars in the sky to Nikki Ash and On The Surface! I always feel all kinds of emotions when I read her books, and they always hit me in my heart but with Celeste she just I have no words. She is one of the realist characters you will ever read!
June 22, 2019
Jase and Celeste- I love them and their story. I loved seeing the real side of Celeste and what made her who she is and Jase is amazing and loyal and selfless. What I really enjoyed about this book was the honesty and openness when Jase and Celeste allowed themselves to be real with one another- even with a confusion in the past.
It's a story of love and lose and realizing it's okay to love again! Also- how truly important communication is! I also loved Celeste's character and how she grew through the book.
Nikki Ash does a great job developing the story with amazing supportive characters who just work within the lives of Jase and Celeste and how grow for themselves and together. I loved the little twists and turns. I don't want to give spoilers so for a great read- go read this book!
It's a story of love and lose and realizing it's okay to love again! Also- how truly important communication is! I also loved Celeste's character and how she grew through the book.
Nikki Ash does a great job developing the story with amazing supportive characters who just work within the lives of Jase and Celeste and how grow for themselves and together. I loved the little twists and turns. I don't want to give spoilers so for a great read- go read this book!
June 13, 2019
Nikki as knocked it out of the park with this one.
Another top read for me
Since the first book I wasn’t a fan of Celeste but as I started to understand her more and see where she’s coming from I started to like her.
Having gone through everything she as Celeste sworn off finding love but that all changed when she meet Jase at the age of 18. For Jade and Celeste is was lust at first sight then it quickly turned into love. They become the perfect halves for each other..so Jase thought till Celeste left with no word and doesn’t see her again till years later.
On The Surface is a second chance romance that is full of emotions and it will have your heart swooning. This book is everything and more that we all come to love from Nikki Ash.
Another top read for me
Since the first book I wasn’t a fan of Celeste but as I started to understand her more and see where she’s coming from I started to like her.
Having gone through everything she as Celeste sworn off finding love but that all changed when she meet Jase at the age of 18. For Jade and Celeste is was lust at first sight then it quickly turned into love. They become the perfect halves for each other..so Jase thought till Celeste left with no word and doesn’t see her again till years later.
On The Surface is a second chance romance that is full of emotions and it will have your heart swooning. This book is everything and more that we all come to love from Nikki Ash.
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