What do you think?
Rate this book
The Intoxicated Books #1
Intoxicated
When everything she ever wanted turns out not to be enough…
Lauren Jefferies is on the verge of having it all. Hard work and determination have culminated in a promotion that promises to put her on track with her upwardly mobile boyfriend Eric. High school sweethearts and together for ten years, they are young enough to have their whole lives ahead of them, but old enough to have established themselves as forces to be reckoned with.
The news should be cause for celebration.
But taking the job means moving two hours away.
Instead of planning their reign as an up and coming power couple, they find their already tenuous relationship further damaged by their conflicting opinions. Eric doesn’t want her to leave. Lauren refuses to back down. In the end, she packs her things and heads up north to her new life, the abstract promise of figuring this all out later hanging between them.
Lauren settles into her new routine quite easily, thanks largely in part to her fast friendship with her roommate Blake. Blake’s companionship comes in a package deal with that of her older brother Matthew. One night over dinner, an innocent conversation leads to the discovery that the three of them have more in common than they’d ever imagined.
Ashamed of his role in the thread that ties them together, Matthew begins to withdraw. As Lauren devises a game plan to ease his torment, Eric inadvertently pushes them together with his selfish actions.
Lauren’s relationship with Eric continues to flounder. The distance is an issue, but Eric’s indifference does nothing to help. Every bright spot in their courtship is countered by darkness and bitterness. More often than not, Matthew is there to pick up the pieces that Eric leaves behind.
Prior to meeting Matthew, Lauren thought she knew what she wanted. Now that she’s just about to obtain everything on her list, she’s left to question if she ever really knew what that was.
Lauren Jefferies is on the verge of having it all. Hard work and determination have culminated in a promotion that promises to put her on track with her upwardly mobile boyfriend Eric. High school sweethearts and together for ten years, they are young enough to have their whole lives ahead of them, but old enough to have established themselves as forces to be reckoned with.
The news should be cause for celebration.
But taking the job means moving two hours away.
Instead of planning their reign as an up and coming power couple, they find their already tenuous relationship further damaged by their conflicting opinions. Eric doesn’t want her to leave. Lauren refuses to back down. In the end, she packs her things and heads up north to her new life, the abstract promise of figuring this all out later hanging between them.
Lauren settles into her new routine quite easily, thanks largely in part to her fast friendship with her roommate Blake. Blake’s companionship comes in a package deal with that of her older brother Matthew. One night over dinner, an innocent conversation leads to the discovery that the three of them have more in common than they’d ever imagined.
Ashamed of his role in the thread that ties them together, Matthew begins to withdraw. As Lauren devises a game plan to ease his torment, Eric inadvertently pushes them together with his selfish actions.
Lauren’s relationship with Eric continues to flounder. The distance is an issue, but Eric’s indifference does nothing to help. Every bright spot in their courtship is countered by darkness and bitterness. More often than not, Matthew is there to pick up the pieces that Eric leaves behind.
Prior to meeting Matthew, Lauren thought she knew what she wanted. Now that she’s just about to obtain everything on her list, she’s left to question if she ever really knew what that was.
424 pages, ebook
Published February 25, 2013
10 people are currently reading
179 people want to read
About the author
Alicia Renee Kline
6 books102 followersAlicia Renee Kline has been a writer since she was old enough to hold a pencil. This hobby has evolved from writing out everything in spiral notebooks and scribbling out her mistakes to being armed with technology so that she can hide the fact that she doesn’t get everything right the first time.
In real life, she is a wife and mother of two daughters, two cats and two hamsters. She is a lifelong resident of Northeastern Indiana and works in the insurance industry.
In real life, she is a wife and mother of two daughters, two cats and two hamsters. She is a lifelong resident of Northeastern Indiana and works in the insurance industry.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
January 7, 2016
Frustrated. That’s how I felt closing this book.
But it’s the best kind of frustrated that only happens when you’re so invested in the characters you’ve read about, frustrated because a book was good enough to surprise you and did not conveniently the old clichés you’re used to and frustrated because you’re left needing to know what happens next. Yes, this book ends on a cliffhanger but the journey that gets you there is more than worth it.
Lauren and Eric have been together for ten years. On paper, Eric is the perfect guy – polite, ambitious, and handsome but Lauren lives in his shadow. When her own ambitions cause her to move two hours away to fill a management position she’s worked so hard for, it places more strain on an already strenuous relationship. She’s yearning for an intoxicating passion that she just doesn’t seem to be getting from Eric. Once arrived in her new city, she finds a place to stay with Blake, and soon meets her brother, Matthew. Matthew stirs a passion in Lauren that she desperately needs but she’s still in a committed, if unfulfilling, relationship with Eric. Matthew seems to return her feelings but he’s already dealing with enough guilt without having to add this on his plate.
There is much I found interesting in this book. There is the constant measuring of expectation against reality which sometimes underwhelms, and other times overwhelms. There is a compelling juxtaposition here between two men; one who thinks he’s wrong but is right and one who thinks he’s right but is wrong. Which one will Lauren choose? Well, we’ll just have to read Shattered to find out.
Even though the author takes her time developing the story and relationships, there are many interweaving storylines here between all the characters and it kept the story interesting and there are so many layers to this seemingly simple romance but don’t be fooled. All in all a really this is a really enjoyable and surprisingly thought-provoking book. Definitely recommended.
(ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review)
But it’s the best kind of frustrated that only happens when you’re so invested in the characters you’ve read about, frustrated because a book was good enough to surprise you and did not conveniently the old clichés you’re used to and frustrated because you’re left needing to know what happens next. Yes, this book ends on a cliffhanger but the journey that gets you there is more than worth it.
Lauren and Eric have been together for ten years. On paper, Eric is the perfect guy – polite, ambitious, and handsome but Lauren lives in his shadow. When her own ambitions cause her to move two hours away to fill a management position she’s worked so hard for, it places more strain on an already strenuous relationship. She’s yearning for an intoxicating passion that she just doesn’t seem to be getting from Eric. Once arrived in her new city, she finds a place to stay with Blake, and soon meets her brother, Matthew. Matthew stirs a passion in Lauren that she desperately needs but she’s still in a committed, if unfulfilling, relationship with Eric. Matthew seems to return her feelings but he’s already dealing with enough guilt without having to add this on his plate.
There is much I found interesting in this book. There is the constant measuring of expectation against reality which sometimes underwhelms, and other times overwhelms. There is a compelling juxtaposition here between two men; one who thinks he’s wrong but is right and one who thinks he’s right but is wrong. Which one will Lauren choose? Well, we’ll just have to read Shattered to find out.
Even though the author takes her time developing the story and relationships, there are many interweaving storylines here between all the characters and it kept the story interesting and there are so many layers to this seemingly simple romance but don’t be fooled. All in all a really this is a really enjoyable and surprisingly thought-provoking book. Definitely recommended.
(ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review)
July 5, 2016
I always give ratings for the books I read, but I rarely write reviews. However, I wanted to take a few minutes to write one for this book, because I was so impressed by the author's work. The story of Lauren, Eric, and Matthew was so darn REAL.
Lauren and Eric have been dating for ten not-so-exciting years, and Eric has pretty much dictated their entire relationship. Lauren has gone along with whatever he has said, because Eric represents security for her. Yet, when she decides to advance her career without his approval, things get even more tenuous for the couple. Lauren moves two hours away to accept her promotion and takes up residence with a stranger, a woman named Blake, who quickly becomes a close friend. Not only that, but Blake has a brother, Matthew, who also becomes Lauren's friend then evolves into something much more. Lauren's old friend, Gracie, is the only person who tells it like it is. As Eric distances himself from Lauren, Matthew moves in to fill the void. Don't get me wrong: Matthew is not putting the moves on Lauren in any overt way. There is obvious chemistry, but Matthew knows that Lauren is in a committed relationship with Eric. But Matthew and Lauren can't hide their feelings from each other forever. However, Matthew has his own problems and backs away - just as Eric appears to offer Lauren everything she has ever wanted from their relationship but never got. It's cliffhanger time!
How did I feel about this book? I felt the way readers should feel: engaged. I wanted to shake Lauren into doing what I felt she should, to yell at Eric for being such an ass, and to kiss Matthew and see him saved from the weight he carried within. I LOVED the epilogue and know I'll have to move on to the next book if I want to find out how things end up for Lauren, Eric, and Matthew. I know what I want to happen, but will it? Only Shattered will answer that question and will probably lead to new ones! This was a thoroughly enjoyable read that kept the characters and their story vibrant and realistic.
Lauren and Eric have been dating for ten not-so-exciting years, and Eric has pretty much dictated their entire relationship. Lauren has gone along with whatever he has said, because Eric represents security for her. Yet, when she decides to advance her career without his approval, things get even more tenuous for the couple. Lauren moves two hours away to accept her promotion and takes up residence with a stranger, a woman named Blake, who quickly becomes a close friend. Not only that, but Blake has a brother, Matthew, who also becomes Lauren's friend then evolves into something much more. Lauren's old friend, Gracie, is the only person who tells it like it is. As Eric distances himself from Lauren, Matthew moves in to fill the void. Don't get me wrong: Matthew is not putting the moves on Lauren in any overt way. There is obvious chemistry, but Matthew knows that Lauren is in a committed relationship with Eric. But Matthew and Lauren can't hide their feelings from each other forever. However, Matthew has his own problems and backs away - just as Eric appears to offer Lauren everything she has ever wanted from their relationship but never got. It's cliffhanger time!
How did I feel about this book? I felt the way readers should feel: engaged. I wanted to shake Lauren into doing what I felt she should, to yell at Eric for being such an ass, and to kiss Matthew and see him saved from the weight he carried within. I LOVED the epilogue and know I'll have to move on to the next book if I want to find out how things end up for Lauren, Eric, and Matthew. I know what I want to happen, but will it? Only Shattered will answer that question and will probably lead to new ones! This was a thoroughly enjoyable read that kept the characters and their story vibrant and realistic.
March 22, 2014
Well, this one was so hard for me to do. Don't get me wrong., I enjoyed the story. I just wished it was a little faster paced. And a little more hot romance action.
I had so many emotions reading this story. Most of the time I was so mad at Eric. He was such a butt-head. And I am being nice about that. What an egotistical jackass. He does not deserve Lauren.
I feel in my heart Lauren and Matthew belong together. I did not like how it ended. Too many unanswered questions. Ugh. I hope it does continue. I need answers.
It is funny how a story can leave you feeling so empty. It was sweet and aggravating story.
You should read it. Tell everyone how you feel about it.
Enjoy <3 Kimberly
I had so many emotions reading this story. Most of the time I was so mad at Eric. He was such a butt-head. And I am being nice about that. What an egotistical jackass. He does not deserve Lauren.
I feel in my heart Lauren and Matthew belong together. I did not like how it ended. Too many unanswered questions. Ugh. I hope it does continue. I need answers.
It is funny how a story can leave you feeling so empty. It was sweet and aggravating story.
You should read it. Tell everyone how you feel about it.
Enjoy <3 Kimberly
April 15, 2014
Intoxicated
Alicia Renee Kline
I was given this story in exchange for an honest review.
The cover of this book made me take a second look, the blurb spiked my curiosity and away I went.
Sometime you get a book that just makes you sit back and say, Huh, I really enjoyed that. This is one of those books. It is just all about fate.
Lauren Jeffries has gotten her promotion. She is set to enjoy her new life, even if it is a few hours away from long time boyfriend Eric, they have done long distance before. They will be fine.
She quickly finds a place to live and her new friend and roommate is home designer Blake. A frequent visitor to their house is her brother Matthew. The three of them become fast and true friends as they find that they share past personal events, it bonds them closer together.
Eric and Lauren try to make time for each other, but the distance just seems to point out the differences that have always been there. Eric sends her roses, and inpersonal cards when Lauren wants more, she wants declarations of love.
Matthew is sweeet, and kind and loving, but oh so very off the table, he is unobtainable, but he comforts her when Eric hurts her with his supposed indifference.But Eric has been around for years, she just needs to work harder on things.
Poor Lauren is so very confused. What does she want? who does she want? Watch out for a cliffhanger of an ending here. I had to rush right out and get the next story so all my questions would be answered.
Will Eric step up to the plate and prove that he is the man for her? Will Matthew ever make a move? Or is he too much of a gentleman to step in on another man’s girl?
I thought that the author did a great job on this story. I felt all of Lauren’s pain as Eric proved over and over again to be a dink and left Matthew holding the pieces. Helping Lauren as only a best friend could. It was not wonder that she thinks she feels something for him. I am hoping for a happy ending here. I am just not sure with what guy. Do I want her to try for Matthew or do I want Eric to step up and be the man she deserves? Dilemna, dilemna, 5/5 for sure. The suspense was amazing. The feelings were great and the friendship between the girls was very well done. I also loved the character of Lauren’s father.
Alicia Renee Kline
I was given this story in exchange for an honest review.
The cover of this book made me take a second look, the blurb spiked my curiosity and away I went.
Sometime you get a book that just makes you sit back and say, Huh, I really enjoyed that. This is one of those books. It is just all about fate.
Lauren Jeffries has gotten her promotion. She is set to enjoy her new life, even if it is a few hours away from long time boyfriend Eric, they have done long distance before. They will be fine.
She quickly finds a place to live and her new friend and roommate is home designer Blake. A frequent visitor to their house is her brother Matthew. The three of them become fast and true friends as they find that they share past personal events, it bonds them closer together.
Eric and Lauren try to make time for each other, but the distance just seems to point out the differences that have always been there. Eric sends her roses, and inpersonal cards when Lauren wants more, she wants declarations of love.
Matthew is sweeet, and kind and loving, but oh so very off the table, he is unobtainable, but he comforts her when Eric hurts her with his supposed indifference.But Eric has been around for years, she just needs to work harder on things.
Poor Lauren is so very confused. What does she want? who does she want? Watch out for a cliffhanger of an ending here. I had to rush right out and get the next story so all my questions would be answered.
Will Eric step up to the plate and prove that he is the man for her? Will Matthew ever make a move? Or is he too much of a gentleman to step in on another man’s girl?
I thought that the author did a great job on this story. I felt all of Lauren’s pain as Eric proved over and over again to be a dink and left Matthew holding the pieces. Helping Lauren as only a best friend could. It was not wonder that she thinks she feels something for him. I am hoping for a happy ending here. I am just not sure with what guy. Do I want her to try for Matthew or do I want Eric to step up and be the man she deserves? Dilemna, dilemna, 5/5 for sure. The suspense was amazing. The feelings were great and the friendship between the girls was very well done. I also loved the character of Lauren’s father.
June 5, 2014
4.0 out of 5 stars Review by Scarlett Jensen of Intoxicated by Alicia Renee. This book was conceptualized with a purpose: to bring the effect of intertwined relationships realistically to the fore. Persons dating have inter-relationship issues with which each of us can relate to. In the search for love we go through phases of guilt, doubts, expectancies, one night stands, betrayal, compromise, soul-searching, mistaking of emotions, juggling of commitment to work and love, not being able to connect, vulnerability, blame, ailing relationships, physical attraction, misunderstandings, flirting, jealousy, etc.The question arises of how to deal with such emotions. The reader can learn through the faults and mistakes of the protagonists how to deal with such matters in order to have positive consequences. In any relationship we seek love, hope for a better future, understanding, compatibility, freedom and safety : a sanctuary for body, heart and soul. Will Lauren, our heroine achieve that and with whom?The story takes us through many celebrations and gifting, but not through the crucial expression of true love and the celebration thereof. That is left for a sequel.The title revolves around the physical happening of drunken-driving. Lauren mother was a victim and killed as result thereof. Matthew who intoxicates her emotionally, was convicted for drunken-driving and served a sentence and needs to face his demons before he can get rid of them. Lauren's crush on the man of her dreams intoxicates her. A mear brush of his shoulder is intoxicating.Compliments to the author, Alicia Renee Kline for a well-developed story. It is an outpour of intoxicating issues that constitutes the life of the dating. She focusses on real life issues. With the title of the book, she underlines how intoxicated you can be when you search for love, when you are not home in the arms of a soulmate. I am sure we will see that happening in the follow-up .
May 11, 2013
I recently read this book, and I was hooked from the beginning! The story flowed real well, and you couldn't be sure who Lauren was going to end up with! I found the characters really realistic, and Matthew sounds like a dream guy! The book ended on quite a cliffhanger.... And definitely left me wanting more. I can't wait to read the next one!
Author Rose Wynters
Author Rose Wynters
February 26, 2015
Three angles, none of equal size all adds up to... Intoxicated, otherwise know as a scalene. But Love triangles aside this was a very fun read. I might be a little biased because chick lit is always steamy fun. Erotica is okay, but when steam is funny it's just so much more exciting. As far as chick lit goes this book hits all the good points. The humour is spot on. The sexual tension, oozing through the pages. Shortage of hot men, of course not. Heroine who is woefully unaware of her own beauty and assumes all her friends are infinitely hotter than she... yes. And did i mention the men are tall. Quadruple yes. Anything above six foot two gets mega bonus points as far as I'm concerned. But enough about the steaminess lets get to the plot.
The one thing that I love about this triangle is that it extends beyond the triangle. Usually these books are told through the eye of the heroine but this book does an excellent job of making her friends roles much more prevalent in the tale. As in real life sometimes every ones individual story intertwines somehow. Coincidence, maybe, but it does happen. This novel does a very good job of using the situations of the friends to affect the dilemma of the heroine.
It's nice that the idiot boyfriend, Eric, is just stupid by way of neglect and there isn't anything majorly glaring about him, and on the reverse side it's also nice that the third, Mathew, isn't some mega player and actually has depth, and serious internal baggage. It's not the old, falling for the ladies man leaving the boyfriend who drastically treats the girl like shit combo which is good. These men are actually a bit more believable and not the over hyped up fantasy novel extremes of what they could be.
Most of the humour seems to stem when things get a little bit flirty which is just how I like it in these kinds of novels. Regardless of all the drama chick lits are light, fun, and very feel good and this tale doesn't disappoint on any of these levels. Another great thing is that the lead character Lauren, and her roommate are both starting new phases in their lives so instead of it just being about her journey forward it's about their journey forward. And I have to admit my favourite character is the one who gets the least amount of page time. Lauren's best friend. She is just hilarious.
Even though Eric is a complete and total idiot, what I liked about him was that he was tall dark and handsome. As in not blonde and blue eyed, and he was more lean and sexy instead of buffed and sexy. Tall blonde and big slice of man beef isn't the only type of sexy. That being said, Matthew did not spend nearly enough time topless in the hot tub. But I digress.
The story had good flow. Moved at an almost steady pace, in some points it seemed like the character was intentionally coming up with reasons to avoid the inevitable instead of the drama just happening. And as an artist I'm super psyched to see an interior designer as a main character. If you're going to have a love triangle it might as well be in a top of the line double oven kitchen. Why settle for anything less. And a character who loves to cook. Food is the way to a mans soul after all. Even in a book.
All in all, this was a nice fun, light read that came to a rather heightened end. If your like good humour, which always had perfect timing, a good hefty bit of drama, a loser boyfriend and an infinitely sexy thing on the side, well you'd be a fool not to pic up this novel.
Side notes
Warning, if you don't like spoilers you should stop here. Okay I do love chick lit. It just makes me laugh and smile. It's fun. Sometimes you have fun. But, on the personal rating as much as I was dying to give this book a ten I just couldn't.
Briefly, when someone is heavy flirting with you, his sister who he should be married to tells you he wants you, your best friend tells you he drilled her about you and is head over hills for you. Your dad gives subtle hints that he would be better for you. He let you drive his expensive stick shift sports car. Let you cry on his should when your boyfriend stood you up minutes before your date, cancelled a date with his friend to stay there with you. And did it again when you when your car wouldn't start. Allowed you into his world when he has serious self doubt issues. Wrote that he loved you too. Too means also which means he knows you love him too and now it's in ink so he can't take it back. And never makes a serious move because he's respectful that you have a man and it's your decision to choose not his. There's no way you can't know he wants you. And if he tells you after your boyfriend asks you to marry him that the boyfriend obviously loves you and you should do what's best for you, pulls out of a kiss you initiated and says you don't want to be the cheating woman your boyfriend says you are. All this adds up to he's a perfect gentlemen and there's no way you can't know he wants you. You'd have to be blind. And most importantly he's right. If your boyfriend accused you of cheating you shouldn't be initiating kisses with someone you know you'll get naked with if he kisses you back. For me the further she committed to not realizing he wanted her and then assuming he didn't at the end; It just wasn't believable enough for me and I got more frustrated and I started out on such a high and then pft. It just kinda sunk.
The boyfriend was done well though. It wouldn't be a good tale if the lead didn't stay with the man she knows is wrong for her on the hopes she might be able to make it right. He'll change, after ten years not likely, but I get it. The only thing I didn't get was the end. If your man ambushes you at a party you are throwing for the competition, and does the one thing he's never ever done for you, and then does the other one thing you wanted him to do as well, and then you say to the second guy right before the kiss that shouldn't have happened, don't you think it's convenient that knowing I'd be there he picked that time to do all of this. Sigh. If she's smart enough to see he's playing her, then why not act like he's playing her. It just didn't make sense to me.
And if you're single and in a triangle then yes, one of the guys needs to step up their game. But as it was very, very well done in this novel, when you are not single, it's the woman's decision to stay or leave. What the second guy did, by making his intentions known but not pushing too far was the right thing to do. Expecting him to stake claim on you like your boyfriend would mean he's the type of guy who likes to move in and steal other peoples women, and who wants to date that. Her using that fact of not claiming her as her soul reason for believing he obviously doesn't want her was ridiculous, especially with all the previously stated evidence. There's much more evidence in the book too.
And lastly I saw the end of this book coming, for me that's a problem, but most people who read books like this thrive on the anticipation. Who will she choose, what will she do, why wont she just go with this guy. And so on. In that regard this book is brilliant, I'd go so far as to say it's excellent. But there's something to do with driving and drinks and so forth and I just knew where it was going, and it kinda brought me down a bit. I ignored it and just enjoyed the story once I got an idea of where it was going.
That's pretty much it. I just couldn't find her denial of the fact that she felt like ripping his clothes of every time she saw him, or all the signs from him and her friends, as believable. It just didn't work for me. That's why as perfectly crafted this novel is I did give it 9 because it's a great book in it's genre. But for me I started of at a perfect eleven and slowly started to climb down. Too bad cause it's a really well written book. And again I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys reading these types of novels, this book is definitely not a miss.
The one thing that I love about this triangle is that it extends beyond the triangle. Usually these books are told through the eye of the heroine but this book does an excellent job of making her friends roles much more prevalent in the tale. As in real life sometimes every ones individual story intertwines somehow. Coincidence, maybe, but it does happen. This novel does a very good job of using the situations of the friends to affect the dilemma of the heroine.
It's nice that the idiot boyfriend, Eric, is just stupid by way of neglect and there isn't anything majorly glaring about him, and on the reverse side it's also nice that the third, Mathew, isn't some mega player and actually has depth, and serious internal baggage. It's not the old, falling for the ladies man leaving the boyfriend who drastically treats the girl like shit combo which is good. These men are actually a bit more believable and not the over hyped up fantasy novel extremes of what they could be.
Most of the humour seems to stem when things get a little bit flirty which is just how I like it in these kinds of novels. Regardless of all the drama chick lits are light, fun, and very feel good and this tale doesn't disappoint on any of these levels. Another great thing is that the lead character Lauren, and her roommate are both starting new phases in their lives so instead of it just being about her journey forward it's about their journey forward. And I have to admit my favourite character is the one who gets the least amount of page time. Lauren's best friend. She is just hilarious.
Even though Eric is a complete and total idiot, what I liked about him was that he was tall dark and handsome. As in not blonde and blue eyed, and he was more lean and sexy instead of buffed and sexy. Tall blonde and big slice of man beef isn't the only type of sexy. That being said, Matthew did not spend nearly enough time topless in the hot tub. But I digress.
The story had good flow. Moved at an almost steady pace, in some points it seemed like the character was intentionally coming up with reasons to avoid the inevitable instead of the drama just happening. And as an artist I'm super psyched to see an interior designer as a main character. If you're going to have a love triangle it might as well be in a top of the line double oven kitchen. Why settle for anything less. And a character who loves to cook. Food is the way to a mans soul after all. Even in a book.
All in all, this was a nice fun, light read that came to a rather heightened end. If your like good humour, which always had perfect timing, a good hefty bit of drama, a loser boyfriend and an infinitely sexy thing on the side, well you'd be a fool not to pic up this novel.
Side notes
Warning, if you don't like spoilers you should stop here. Okay I do love chick lit. It just makes me laugh and smile. It's fun. Sometimes you have fun. But, on the personal rating as much as I was dying to give this book a ten I just couldn't.
Briefly, when someone is heavy flirting with you, his sister who he should be married to tells you he wants you, your best friend tells you he drilled her about you and is head over hills for you. Your dad gives subtle hints that he would be better for you. He let you drive his expensive stick shift sports car. Let you cry on his should when your boyfriend stood you up minutes before your date, cancelled a date with his friend to stay there with you. And did it again when you when your car wouldn't start. Allowed you into his world when he has serious self doubt issues. Wrote that he loved you too. Too means also which means he knows you love him too and now it's in ink so he can't take it back. And never makes a serious move because he's respectful that you have a man and it's your decision to choose not his. There's no way you can't know he wants you. And if he tells you after your boyfriend asks you to marry him that the boyfriend obviously loves you and you should do what's best for you, pulls out of a kiss you initiated and says you don't want to be the cheating woman your boyfriend says you are. All this adds up to he's a perfect gentlemen and there's no way you can't know he wants you. You'd have to be blind. And most importantly he's right. If your boyfriend accused you of cheating you shouldn't be initiating kisses with someone you know you'll get naked with if he kisses you back. For me the further she committed to not realizing he wanted her and then assuming he didn't at the end; It just wasn't believable enough for me and I got more frustrated and I started out on such a high and then pft. It just kinda sunk.
The boyfriend was done well though. It wouldn't be a good tale if the lead didn't stay with the man she knows is wrong for her on the hopes she might be able to make it right. He'll change, after ten years not likely, but I get it. The only thing I didn't get was the end. If your man ambushes you at a party you are throwing for the competition, and does the one thing he's never ever done for you, and then does the other one thing you wanted him to do as well, and then you say to the second guy right before the kiss that shouldn't have happened, don't you think it's convenient that knowing I'd be there he picked that time to do all of this. Sigh. If she's smart enough to see he's playing her, then why not act like he's playing her. It just didn't make sense to me.
And if you're single and in a triangle then yes, one of the guys needs to step up their game. But as it was very, very well done in this novel, when you are not single, it's the woman's decision to stay or leave. What the second guy did, by making his intentions known but not pushing too far was the right thing to do. Expecting him to stake claim on you like your boyfriend would mean he's the type of guy who likes to move in and steal other peoples women, and who wants to date that. Her using that fact of not claiming her as her soul reason for believing he obviously doesn't want her was ridiculous, especially with all the previously stated evidence. There's much more evidence in the book too.
And lastly I saw the end of this book coming, for me that's a problem, but most people who read books like this thrive on the anticipation. Who will she choose, what will she do, why wont she just go with this guy. And so on. In that regard this book is brilliant, I'd go so far as to say it's excellent. But there's something to do with driving and drinks and so forth and I just knew where it was going, and it kinda brought me down a bit. I ignored it and just enjoyed the story once I got an idea of where it was going.
That's pretty much it. I just couldn't find her denial of the fact that she felt like ripping his clothes of every time she saw him, or all the signs from him and her friends, as believable. It just didn't work for me. That's why as perfectly crafted this novel is I did give it 9 because it's a great book in it's genre. But for me I started of at a perfect eleven and slowly started to climb down. Too bad cause it's a really well written book. And again I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys reading these types of novels, this book is definitely not a miss.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 28, 2014
Lauren’s a mortgage underwriter at a bank and has just received a promotion to be the Director of Underwriting. It’s a position she wants and has been groomed for it, but requires her to move 2 hours away from her hometown in Indianapolis. Not only will she need to move away from her dad and best friend, but she’ll also be moving away from her boyfriend.
Lauren and Eric started dating in high school at age 16 so they’ve been together for 10 years now. Eric went to college out of town, so they had a long distance relationship then. After college, he got a job as a salesman and is out of town a lot. This is the first time that Lauren will be moving from their home base of Indianapolis, though, and Eric isn’t taking it well.
Instead of renting an apartment in her new town, Lauren finds a room for rent. She becomes fast friends with Blake, the homeowner, and Matthew, Blake’s brother. Matthew doesn’t live with Blake, but he is there a lot. It’s pretty obvious to anyone around that Lauren and Matthew are seriously attracted to each other. Matthew and Lauren make a few flirtatious comments (like Matthew refers to Lauren as ‘gorgeous’ or ‘sweetheart’ constantly), but there are no overt comments and neither makes any moves to take action on the attraction. Lauren is very clear about the fact that she has a boyfriend.
The problems that existed in Lauren and Eric’s relationship when they were in Indy escalate with her move. Eric’s lack of affection and his inability to express his love are compounded when he breaks promised and makes asinine compromised to make their relationship work. Instead of making the relationship work, he ends up driving a wedge between them. Matthew ends up filing the role that Eric isn’t more often than not.
Matthew’s life isn’t all rainbows and daisies. He’s made some mistakes in his past that have left him guilt-ridden and broken inside. Blake also struggles with some of the same issues, so these siblings don’t expect love or acceptance easily. They rely almost exclusively on each other.
When Eric finally offers a compromise that works and includes things that Lauren has been wanting for years, she has to make a decision. Can she leave the life she’s built and walk away from her new friends and the attraction she has with Matthew to create the future with Eric that she’s always wanted?
Yes, I am aware that my summary is pretty lengthy. I REALLY tried to leave out my feelings about things to just let you know what this is all about though. I also realize that quite a bit of this is included in the author’s blurb, but sometimes those are pretty cryptic.
It took me a few minutes to really put together my thoughts after reading this book. I mean I LOVED this book. It does end in a cliffhanger, but I am pretty sure that Lauren’s story wraps up in book 2 – Shattered, which is already available. That’s important to note, because I am seriously impatient and you will need to read book 2 after book 1. I have ants in my pants just trying to write this review! Sometimes a story is okay or pretty good and you aren’t dying to start reading more immediately. That isn’t the case here. It ends in a pretty major point too and you have no real idea what is going to happen next. It’s actually pretty beautifully written if you ask me. Speaking of the writing, I am happy to report that the editing errors are minimal at most. I won’t say they didn’t exist, but I can’t recall any, so there wasn’t anything terribly glaring that would distract from the story.
That leads me to our main characters…..
Lauren – Lauren is annoyingly realistic. She’s only ever been with Eric and she’s never not been with him. I am sure that sounds like the same thing, but it’s not. She has no experience with other men and she’s never been alone. Even though she’s done the long distance thing, she’s always had him. My point is that she isn’t just going to throw away a relationship that she’s been in for 10 years. Even though things aren’t perfect with Eric, he’s constant and comfortable. If you are like me, you will want to yell at her at times. “Why are you taking up for him?” “How can you just ignore that?”
Eric – I want to say a bunch of mean stuff about Eric, but mostly I think he was just slow and stupid. I WANT to feel like he is unrealistic, but I know that isn’t true. I’ve met guys like this. Eric is that guy that doesn’t realize what he has until he thinks he’s about to lose it. Maybe he even does realize it, but he takes advantage of it. You need to make up your own opinions about him, but I do think he loves Lauren and his heart is probably in the right place.
Gracie – Gracie was the character that said what we were all thinking- I seriously laughed out loud at some of her comments! “Did you seriously say that with a straight face?” Loved it!
Blake – Blake has some layers and we really don’t see a lot of those until the 2nd half of the book. I liked her almost instantly. She’s only of those genuinely kind people and she cares easily. She shows her feelings by doing things for people (like designing Lauren’s bedroom and office) rather than with her words. Her only real constant has been her brother and she’s really protective of him. It’s the kind of thing that makes me glad I’m not an only child.
Matthew – Matthew was super cute. I loved his nicknames and flirty comments. All of the little things that he did for Lauren and Blake really warmed my heart. When he cancelled his plans to comfort Lauren, I fell a little in love with him and I totally swooned when he took up for Lauren at Thanksgiving and at his Christmas present. Matthew officially became my current book boyfriend, though, when I read his POV in the epilogue. This was genius on the author’s part!
Chris – Chris isn’t really a main character, but I felt the need to comment that I can not wait to read his and Blake’s story. This is book 3 in the series – Designed, which is also currently available. The few comments we get about Chris and the short time he has with Lauren hint that he isn’t over Blake, but the comment from Matthew’s POV in the epilogue *sigh* will melt your heart.
Reviewing on behalf of Fierce and Fabulous Book Diva – check us out at http://www.fierceandfabbookdiva.com/.
Complimentary copy provided for honest review.
Lauren and Eric started dating in high school at age 16 so they’ve been together for 10 years now. Eric went to college out of town, so they had a long distance relationship then. After college, he got a job as a salesman and is out of town a lot. This is the first time that Lauren will be moving from their home base of Indianapolis, though, and Eric isn’t taking it well.
Instead of renting an apartment in her new town, Lauren finds a room for rent. She becomes fast friends with Blake, the homeowner, and Matthew, Blake’s brother. Matthew doesn’t live with Blake, but he is there a lot. It’s pretty obvious to anyone around that Lauren and Matthew are seriously attracted to each other. Matthew and Lauren make a few flirtatious comments (like Matthew refers to Lauren as ‘gorgeous’ or ‘sweetheart’ constantly), but there are no overt comments and neither makes any moves to take action on the attraction. Lauren is very clear about the fact that she has a boyfriend.
The problems that existed in Lauren and Eric’s relationship when they were in Indy escalate with her move. Eric’s lack of affection and his inability to express his love are compounded when he breaks promised and makes asinine compromised to make their relationship work. Instead of making the relationship work, he ends up driving a wedge between them. Matthew ends up filing the role that Eric isn’t more often than not.
Matthew’s life isn’t all rainbows and daisies. He’s made some mistakes in his past that have left him guilt-ridden and broken inside. Blake also struggles with some of the same issues, so these siblings don’t expect love or acceptance easily. They rely almost exclusively on each other.
When Eric finally offers a compromise that works and includes things that Lauren has been wanting for years, she has to make a decision. Can she leave the life she’s built and walk away from her new friends and the attraction she has with Matthew to create the future with Eric that she’s always wanted?
Yes, I am aware that my summary is pretty lengthy. I REALLY tried to leave out my feelings about things to just let you know what this is all about though. I also realize that quite a bit of this is included in the author’s blurb, but sometimes those are pretty cryptic.
It took me a few minutes to really put together my thoughts after reading this book. I mean I LOVED this book. It does end in a cliffhanger, but I am pretty sure that Lauren’s story wraps up in book 2 – Shattered, which is already available. That’s important to note, because I am seriously impatient and you will need to read book 2 after book 1. I have ants in my pants just trying to write this review! Sometimes a story is okay or pretty good and you aren’t dying to start reading more immediately. That isn’t the case here. It ends in a pretty major point too and you have no real idea what is going to happen next. It’s actually pretty beautifully written if you ask me. Speaking of the writing, I am happy to report that the editing errors are minimal at most. I won’t say they didn’t exist, but I can’t recall any, so there wasn’t anything terribly glaring that would distract from the story.
That leads me to our main characters…..
Lauren – Lauren is annoyingly realistic. She’s only ever been with Eric and she’s never not been with him. I am sure that sounds like the same thing, but it’s not. She has no experience with other men and she’s never been alone. Even though she’s done the long distance thing, she’s always had him. My point is that she isn’t just going to throw away a relationship that she’s been in for 10 years. Even though things aren’t perfect with Eric, he’s constant and comfortable. If you are like me, you will want to yell at her at times. “Why are you taking up for him?” “How can you just ignore that?”
Eric – I want to say a bunch of mean stuff about Eric, but mostly I think he was just slow and stupid. I WANT to feel like he is unrealistic, but I know that isn’t true. I’ve met guys like this. Eric is that guy that doesn’t realize what he has until he thinks he’s about to lose it. Maybe he even does realize it, but he takes advantage of it. You need to make up your own opinions about him, but I do think he loves Lauren and his heart is probably in the right place.
Gracie – Gracie was the character that said what we were all thinking- I seriously laughed out loud at some of her comments! “Did you seriously say that with a straight face?” Loved it!
Blake – Blake has some layers and we really don’t see a lot of those until the 2nd half of the book. I liked her almost instantly. She’s only of those genuinely kind people and she cares easily. She shows her feelings by doing things for people (like designing Lauren’s bedroom and office) rather than with her words. Her only real constant has been her brother and she’s really protective of him. It’s the kind of thing that makes me glad I’m not an only child.
Matthew – Matthew was super cute. I loved his nicknames and flirty comments. All of the little things that he did for Lauren and Blake really warmed my heart. When he cancelled his plans to comfort Lauren, I fell a little in love with him and I totally swooned when he took up for Lauren at Thanksgiving and at his Christmas present. Matthew officially became my current book boyfriend, though, when I read his POV in the epilogue. This was genius on the author’s part!
Chris – Chris isn’t really a main character, but I felt the need to comment that I can not wait to read his and Blake’s story. This is book 3 in the series – Designed, which is also currently available. The few comments we get about Chris and the short time he has with Lauren hint that he isn’t over Blake, but the comment from Matthew’s POV in the epilogue *sigh* will melt your heart.
Reviewing on behalf of Fierce and Fabulous Book Diva – check us out at http://www.fierceandfabbookdiva.com/.
Complimentary copy provided for honest review.
October 24, 2017
Lauren has just received the promotion she has worked so hard to achieve. The problem - she must move two hours away from home. Lauren is ready for this big change in her life. Eric, her boyfriend of ten years, is less than supportive.
Lauren finds a room to rent in her new location. Blake is an interior designer. Blake’s brother, Matthew lives not far from her. He is often at her home. Blake and Matthew had been disowned by their parents years ago. They rely on each other for moral support. Lauren gets along with both of them. It’s not long before she falls for Matthew.
Eric keeps begging Lauren to come home, yet he never says the right words. Matthew picks up the mess that Eric has left in Lauren’s life.
I enjoyed the characters. They are well-developed. Their personalities shine through with the author’s writing. I didn’t want the book to end where it ended. The cliffhanger has me eager to start the next book in the series. I need to be back into the lives of these characters.
The book is great for those who enjoy a wholesome romance. Young Adult readers will enjoy it, too. I highly recommend this book.
Lauren finds a room to rent in her new location. Blake is an interior designer. Blake’s brother, Matthew lives not far from her. He is often at her home. Blake and Matthew had been disowned by their parents years ago. They rely on each other for moral support. Lauren gets along with both of them. It’s not long before she falls for Matthew.
Eric keeps begging Lauren to come home, yet he never says the right words. Matthew picks up the mess that Eric has left in Lauren’s life.
I enjoyed the characters. They are well-developed. Their personalities shine through with the author’s writing. I didn’t want the book to end where it ended. The cliffhanger has me eager to start the next book in the series. I need to be back into the lives of these characters.
The book is great for those who enjoy a wholesome romance. Young Adult readers will enjoy it, too. I highly recommend this book.
June 9, 2018
I'm sorry but this book was tedious. It took me forever to finish. Lauren repeated the same thought process throughout the whole book, nobody actually told her (not Gracie, not her dad) to break it off with Eric. When Matthew flat out told her he likes her like a milion times, five minutes later she was having the same overdone loves me love me not inner monologue. Ugh, I know I won't be reading any thing else from this author. Repetitive and honestly sad to be read as a woman. This is the bad kind of chick lit. Sorry, but hard no.
May 10, 2017
First time reader but I like this book. The ending had me dying for the next in the series.
September 19, 2014
5 Amazing Wonderful Stars
I was given this book for my honest review
What happens when you meet someone and lightning strikes? Do you ignore it and just pretend that it didn’t or do you do something about it to keep the light?
Blake-pretty, silly and scared interior designer
Matthew- Blake’s brother and a hotter than hot stud
Lauren-sweet, kind, pretty
Eric-Lauren’s boyfriend
This is a journey that has should be written in the history romance books if there was one. This amazing read is nothing but admirable, sensual and a conundrum.
Lauren has the opportunity of a lifetime and is so sure that she should go where her heart leads but is the heart always right? She thinks of her longtime boyfriend Eric of 10 years and winces at memories that are both being made and some that have yet to begin. Can she take the leap that is needed to be the one person she knows deep in her heart she is meant to be?
Eric has issues with Lauren going off to another adventure even though he has his own adventures ahead and is not always the tentative boyfriend that she deserves. He is faithful and secure when he is in town.
Blake is a designer and doesn’t like to live alone. She likes having a companion around to feel safe with. She has hidden deep secrets that can’t be revealed and is afraid that the one man that she has loved for like forever would not understand completely. She has a guarded heart.
Matthew is Blake’s brother whom has issues that are his own. He is a scared but loving man that has a bright future but getting close to someone has never been a complete option for him. He has the fear that if anyone gets near that they will not accept him in the manner that he so richly deserves. He keeps his heart protected and will be the first to turn in the other direction before anyone can near.
When Matthew and Lauren meet for the first time LIGHTENING strikes there is no doubt. But with all that is going on can these two come together and find true happiness? Eric is Lauren’s boyfriend and she knows that in her heart that what she just felt can only be imaginary but is it? Can Lauren and Matthew be just friends or can it be more? And what about Eric is he the man that Lauren is meant to be with or is it Matthew with the touch of lightening?
This author wrote and awesome conundrum that is for sure in this reviewer’s opinion. These questions that I have put in this review can all be answered once you pick up this amazing book. It is so worth the read and so much more. I look forward to reading more from this author.
Happy Reading
I was given this book for my honest review
What happens when you meet someone and lightning strikes? Do you ignore it and just pretend that it didn’t or do you do something about it to keep the light?
Blake-pretty, silly and scared interior designer
Matthew- Blake’s brother and a hotter than hot stud
Lauren-sweet, kind, pretty
Eric-Lauren’s boyfriend
This is a journey that has should be written in the history romance books if there was one. This amazing read is nothing but admirable, sensual and a conundrum.
Lauren has the opportunity of a lifetime and is so sure that she should go where her heart leads but is the heart always right? She thinks of her longtime boyfriend Eric of 10 years and winces at memories that are both being made and some that have yet to begin. Can she take the leap that is needed to be the one person she knows deep in her heart she is meant to be?
Eric has issues with Lauren going off to another adventure even though he has his own adventures ahead and is not always the tentative boyfriend that she deserves. He is faithful and secure when he is in town.
Blake is a designer and doesn’t like to live alone. She likes having a companion around to feel safe with. She has hidden deep secrets that can’t be revealed and is afraid that the one man that she has loved for like forever would not understand completely. She has a guarded heart.
Matthew is Blake’s brother whom has issues that are his own. He is a scared but loving man that has a bright future but getting close to someone has never been a complete option for him. He has the fear that if anyone gets near that they will not accept him in the manner that he so richly deserves. He keeps his heart protected and will be the first to turn in the other direction before anyone can near.
When Matthew and Lauren meet for the first time LIGHTENING strikes there is no doubt. But with all that is going on can these two come together and find true happiness? Eric is Lauren’s boyfriend and she knows that in her heart that what she just felt can only be imaginary but is it? Can Lauren and Matthew be just friends or can it be more? And what about Eric is he the man that Lauren is meant to be with or is it Matthew with the touch of lightening?
This author wrote and awesome conundrum that is for sure in this reviewer’s opinion. These questions that I have put in this review can all be answered once you pick up this amazing book. It is so worth the read and so much more. I look forward to reading more from this author.
Happy Reading
December 29, 2014
The cover does not do this book justice. The cover don't look all that great but the story itself is just WOW.
Lauren Jefferies had it hard growing up with just her dad as she lost her mum from a very young age. At 16 Lauren met a boy called Eric and instantly they fell in love and still together 10 years later. Lauren has worked very hard for where she has gotten herself and finally has landed the role of her dreams in the bank. Only problem is she has to move two hours aways for her new job. Lauren and Eric's relationship is very unique where he is very successful and travels out of time a lot. Lauren has put a lot of things on hold for Eric but now she is putting her foot down and following her dreams. She moves two hours away into a house where a room is for rent. Blake and Lauren become instant friends. Blake has a brother called Matthew and meets him on the very first day she moves into Blakes.
Matthew Snyder has a lot of dark demons and only has his sister Blake Snyder. Both of them have only each other and don't have anything to do with their parents. Matthew struggles with a lot and feels he just doesn't deserve anything. Blake tries to help him see the great things in him and his life but that is just not enough until Lauren Jefferies comes into his life.
Sparks fly between both Lauren and Blake and A LOT of sexualtention but both fight very hard to ignore their feelings. Lauren hopes she can bring her life from home into her new life which doesn't go so well, Eric... Eric puts a lot more pressure on Lauren which conflicts her feelings for him and Matthew included. With this extra pressure will Eric and Lauren last or will it break them??? What will happen with Matthew and her feelings that she has been trying to fight and had warnings from Blake?!?!
I must say I found this a very different read from most other books I have read. I have read similar story lines to this but the way Alicia has captured the characters and written the story is by far one of the best stories I have read in quite awhile.
I really, really enjoyed how you see the emotional side of the story with the sexualtention. Sometimes it is really nice to read just a book without the actual sex. To feel all emotions without the physical contact is sometimes just enough. Yes there is physical contact but not quite what you think lol so please don't be too disappointed.
This story does end on a cliffhanger so make sure you have the second book handy straight away because you will wanna know where both Lauren and Matthew end up!!!
Lauren Jefferies had it hard growing up with just her dad as she lost her mum from a very young age. At 16 Lauren met a boy called Eric and instantly they fell in love and still together 10 years later. Lauren has worked very hard for where she has gotten herself and finally has landed the role of her dreams in the bank. Only problem is she has to move two hours aways for her new job. Lauren and Eric's relationship is very unique where he is very successful and travels out of time a lot. Lauren has put a lot of things on hold for Eric but now she is putting her foot down and following her dreams. She moves two hours away into a house where a room is for rent. Blake and Lauren become instant friends. Blake has a brother called Matthew and meets him on the very first day she moves into Blakes.
Matthew Snyder has a lot of dark demons and only has his sister Blake Snyder. Both of them have only each other and don't have anything to do with their parents. Matthew struggles with a lot and feels he just doesn't deserve anything. Blake tries to help him see the great things in him and his life but that is just not enough until Lauren Jefferies comes into his life.
Sparks fly between both Lauren and Blake and A LOT of sexualtention but both fight very hard to ignore their feelings. Lauren hopes she can bring her life from home into her new life which doesn't go so well, Eric... Eric puts a lot more pressure on Lauren which conflicts her feelings for him and Matthew included. With this extra pressure will Eric and Lauren last or will it break them??? What will happen with Matthew and her feelings that she has been trying to fight and had warnings from Blake?!?!
I must say I found this a very different read from most other books I have read. I have read similar story lines to this but the way Alicia has captured the characters and written the story is by far one of the best stories I have read in quite awhile.
I really, really enjoyed how you see the emotional side of the story with the sexualtention. Sometimes it is really nice to read just a book without the actual sex. To feel all emotions without the physical contact is sometimes just enough. Yes there is physical contact but not quite what you think lol so please don't be too disappointed.
This story does end on a cliffhanger so make sure you have the second book handy straight away because you will wanna know where both Lauren and Matthew end up!!!
November 14, 2014
I was provided with a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This was a cool and breezy romance. Lauren is at a breakthrough point in her career, having won a promotion after years of slogging away as an underwriter. She is understandably eager and happy with herself. Things cannot look better, except for one point - she needs to move two hours away from the place she has known as home all her life. This wedges up her already "almost-in-doldrums" 10-year relationship with Eric. Blake comes into Lauren's life as a breath of fresh air, taking away the loneliness and the bleakness that could fill up the life of a young workaholic executive, and also fills the void the absence her best friend from hom, Gracie, leaves in her life. Lauren gets more than she bargained for, when she finds a very good friend in Matthew, Blake's elder brother. Added to this, Lauren, Blake and Matthew are all battling demons from their pasts. Would Matthew stay just the chivalrous friend, or would he prove to be a formidable rival to Eric, is what the story builds up to.
This not a twist-in-the-tale style book with heart-lurching plot changes. The plot is predictable and one knows where Lauren is headed, but there is a soothing ease in the predictability. Lauren is just like any of us, and it's easy to empathise with her. Blake and Gracie are both thoroughly enjoyable characters, making one long for such loyal friendships. Eric, as a self-centred egotist forms the perfect foil for the ever-attentive Matthew. Overall, the bunch forms a delightful mix and endear themselves to the reader.
This was a nice and relaxing read - a good companion for a rainy day and a hot cup of coffee. I would certainly recommend this book to lovers of romance and drama. I definitely liked the book and I am looking forward to reading the sequel.
My rating for this book: 4 stars
Review Links
http://simpliread.blogspot.com/2014/1...
https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/3...
http://www.amazon.com/gp/pdp/profile/...
This was a cool and breezy romance. Lauren is at a breakthrough point in her career, having won a promotion after years of slogging away as an underwriter. She is understandably eager and happy with herself. Things cannot look better, except for one point - she needs to move two hours away from the place she has known as home all her life. This wedges up her already "almost-in-doldrums" 10-year relationship with Eric. Blake comes into Lauren's life as a breath of fresh air, taking away the loneliness and the bleakness that could fill up the life of a young workaholic executive, and also fills the void the absence her best friend from hom, Gracie, leaves in her life. Lauren gets more than she bargained for, when she finds a very good friend in Matthew, Blake's elder brother. Added to this, Lauren, Blake and Matthew are all battling demons from their pasts. Would Matthew stay just the chivalrous friend, or would he prove to be a formidable rival to Eric, is what the story builds up to.
This not a twist-in-the-tale style book with heart-lurching plot changes. The plot is predictable and one knows where Lauren is headed, but there is a soothing ease in the predictability. Lauren is just like any of us, and it's easy to empathise with her. Blake and Gracie are both thoroughly enjoyable characters, making one long for such loyal friendships. Eric, as a self-centred egotist forms the perfect foil for the ever-attentive Matthew. Overall, the bunch forms a delightful mix and endear themselves to the reader.
This was a nice and relaxing read - a good companion for a rainy day and a hot cup of coffee. I would certainly recommend this book to lovers of romance and drama. I definitely liked the book and I am looking forward to reading the sequel.
My rating for this book: 4 stars
Review Links
http://simpliread.blogspot.com/2014/1...
https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/3...
http://www.amazon.com/gp/pdp/profile/...
January 16, 2015
Mousiey has a book for you today - It is called INTOXICATED and by ALICIA RENEE KLINE. I re'd this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review. This is mousieys very honest opinion of Ms Kline's amazing and yummy book. She has a gift with bringing her characters to life, and having them fit together in situations. Her scenes are so detailed that you can actually see everything she has written. I found this book to be a true edge of the seat , nail biter as you didn't know what was going to happen next
Now as I go on, remember readers that this is just a nibble of the story.
As our story starts out we find Lauren at her good-bye party. She has taken a promotion in another city. Her boyfriend is not happy with her. He doesn't understand why she has to move away. She can stay right there and do her job - they can continue on as they have been doing. Lauren wants more-she wants isn't happy. During the party Eric calls asking where she is. She tells him that she is at home. HE tells her that she isn't as he is there. Oops she is caught- she rushes home. Walking through the piles of boxes she finds him. He demands to know where she was. Lauren tells him she was out with her friend partying for one last time before she leaves. Eric gets mad and leaves. The next day her father and best friend help her load all her stuff up and away she goes.Now in the new town , Blake is having an argument with her brother Matthew over the fact that she has advertised for a roommate. Matt states that she could of continued to live with him and not need one. She says she wants her own place. He storms off. Lauren shows up at Blakes door - they meet each other. And become roomies. Now Eric lets Lauren down several times promising to come and take her out and then backs out. Matthew picks up the pieces. It brings Lauren and Matt closer together. But Matt has a secrete. Ok ... The story gets really good!!! It has lots of twists and turns in it!! I would recommend this book for those over the age of 16. Mousiey gives it a firm rating of 30 out 5 stars.I am looking forward to seeing what happens next !!! NOW DRIVE AND GET YOUR COPY TODAY!!
Now as I go on, remember readers that this is just a nibble of the story.
As our story starts out we find Lauren at her good-bye party. She has taken a promotion in another city. Her boyfriend is not happy with her. He doesn't understand why she has to move away. She can stay right there and do her job - they can continue on as they have been doing. Lauren wants more-she wants isn't happy. During the party Eric calls asking where she is. She tells him that she is at home. HE tells her that she isn't as he is there. Oops she is caught- she rushes home. Walking through the piles of boxes she finds him. He demands to know where she was. Lauren tells him she was out with her friend partying for one last time before she leaves. Eric gets mad and leaves. The next day her father and best friend help her load all her stuff up and away she goes.Now in the new town , Blake is having an argument with her brother Matthew over the fact that she has advertised for a roommate. Matt states that she could of continued to live with him and not need one. She says she wants her own place. He storms off. Lauren shows up at Blakes door - they meet each other. And become roomies. Now Eric lets Lauren down several times promising to come and take her out and then backs out. Matthew picks up the pieces. It brings Lauren and Matt closer together. But Matt has a secrete. Ok ... The story gets really good!!! It has lots of twists and turns in it!! I would recommend this book for those over the age of 16. Mousiey gives it a firm rating of 30 out 5 stars.I am looking forward to seeing what happens next !!! NOW DRIVE AND GET YOUR COPY TODAY!!
October 26, 2014
*I received a copy in exchange for an honest review*
Lauren was 26 and had been dating her high school sweetheart Eric, since they were 16. After receiving a new job promotion, requiring her to move 2 hours away to Fort Wayne, which does not make Eric happy.
When Lauren moves to Fort Wayne, she befriends Blake, which becomes her new roommate and Matthew, her older brother with a troubled past.
I'll be honest, I HATED Eric. I thought he was arrogant, didn't actually care about Lauren, and was more focused on his job or whatever else he had going on in his life. I didn't like the way he talked about Matthew and immediately judged him because of his past. And how could he not say "I Love You?" It made me sick reading how Lauren loved him and wanted so hard to make things work but he can't even say I love you.
I liked Matthew though.
He was real and genuine. He actually cared about Lauren and was always there to pick up the pieces when Eric let her down. You could tell there was major tension between the two of them, but sexual tension. Throughout the whole book I was waiting for that one moment where they would kiss and when they did I was so excited. But Matthew was right not to further it because Lauren did still have a boyfriend.
The ending had me guessing! I can't wait to find out what happens for Lauren next and who she chooses...
Lauren was 26 and had been dating her high school sweetheart Eric, since they were 16. After receiving a new job promotion, requiring her to move 2 hours away to Fort Wayne, which does not make Eric happy.
When Lauren moves to Fort Wayne, she befriends Blake, which becomes her new roommate and Matthew, her older brother with a troubled past.
I'll be honest, I HATED Eric. I thought he was arrogant, didn't actually care about Lauren, and was more focused on his job or whatever else he had going on in his life. I didn't like the way he talked about Matthew and immediately judged him because of his past. And how could he not say "I Love You?" It made me sick reading how Lauren loved him and wanted so hard to make things work but he can't even say I love you.
I liked Matthew though.
He was real and genuine. He actually cared about Lauren and was always there to pick up the pieces when Eric let her down. You could tell there was major tension between the two of them, but sexual tension. Throughout the whole book I was waiting for that one moment where they would kiss and when they did I was so excited. But Matthew was right not to further it because Lauren did still have a boyfriend.
The ending had me guessing! I can't wait to find out what happens for Lauren next and who she chooses...
April 17, 2015
This story just pulled me in, if I could have spent a whole day just reading it I would have. As I was getting towards the end of the book, I could not put it down, made me think of calling in to work even!
I really enjoyed the authors description of the characters, I felt like I knew them. I could feel their highs and their lows. The story revolves around Lauren, who has had to move in order to move up in her career, her boyfriend Eric is not sympathetic towards her, he does not want her to move or she thinks to even improve her life. She does end up moving, with both of them compromising, but little did she know what or who was waiting for her around the corner.
Next we meet her roommate Blake and her brother Matthew, she has an instant connection with him and feels that he understands her so much more than her boyfriend. As they spend more and more time together, she begins to have feelings toward him, but what about her boyfriend who has not even said those special three words a girl wants to hear from her guy.
What an ending to this story, I did not expect it. Just as she gets something from her boyfriend that she had envisioned for quite some time, she is torn in her feelings. What will she decide, who will she want in her life? I can’t wait to read the next book to find out some of those questions.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review
I really enjoyed the authors description of the characters, I felt like I knew them. I could feel their highs and their lows. The story revolves around Lauren, who has had to move in order to move up in her career, her boyfriend Eric is not sympathetic towards her, he does not want her to move or she thinks to even improve her life. She does end up moving, with both of them compromising, but little did she know what or who was waiting for her around the corner.
Next we meet her roommate Blake and her brother Matthew, she has an instant connection with him and feels that he understands her so much more than her boyfriend. As they spend more and more time together, she begins to have feelings toward him, but what about her boyfriend who has not even said those special three words a girl wants to hear from her guy.
What an ending to this story, I did not expect it. Just as she gets something from her boyfriend that she had envisioned for quite some time, she is torn in her feelings. What will she decide, who will she want in her life? I can’t wait to read the next book to find out some of those questions.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review
January 23, 2015
Intoxicated (The Intoxicated Books, #1)
By Alicia Renee Kline
I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for a honest review,
This story is about a young woman named Lauren. Lauren is a mortgage underwriter who just received a promotion 2 hours away from her hometown. Lauren is so excited about her new position but wasn’t ready for how her world falls apart once she accepts it.
Lauren has been with her longtime boyfriend Eric for 10 years who she leaves behind to take the job position. She sees it as no big deal since Eric job keeps him on business trips anyway until she meets Blake Snyder and her brother Matthew when she accepts Blake’s room for rent. Once moved in Lauren must try and figure out how to balance her friends and family from back home with her new life.
I felt the book was a little slow however at the same time it made me want to punch the boyfriend. For the most part the characters are very realistic and the situations they encounter happen in relationships and in life in general.
By the time I finished I had to down load the second book because I have to know what happens next.
July 4, 2016
An amazing, very easy to read book that kept me interested to the very last page. Though I expected an ordinary romance story, it turned out to be much more. Each character is unique, none of them are perfect, yet I had a feeling I would really enjoy their company. Even Eric who seems to be a totally negative character somehow turns out into a more tolerable one. And Lauren, at some points I really got frustrated with her for not kicking his ass. Overall, what I liked about all those people is the fact that they seemed so real, almost like people I know. True, they do belong to a different culture, have more money than people I socialise with, yet there are mundane things they do, like cooking or worrying about what other people think about them. And above all, though I believed I saw a very predictable ending at the very beginning, there was a surprise element, too.
My compliments to the author for an extremelly well written story. She proved that everyday ordinary things can be used to write a good book full of interesting moments and that good writing and character elaboration can be found in romantic stories as well (though I think this book is much more than that).
My compliments to the author for an extremelly well written story. She proved that everyday ordinary things can be used to write a good book full of interesting moments and that good writing and character elaboration can be found in romantic stories as well (though I think this book is much more than that).
September 4, 2014
At first thought Laura was a wee bit of a pushover. Eric just took her for granted and she let him. Not sure if it was because she was afraid, insecure or what but it wasn't pretty. She begins to show some gumption when she moves but she still stays with Eric. Why? Again don't know.
When she meets Matthew there is instant chemistry. Can feel it coming off the pages. These two sizzled but Matthew was afraid and withdrew. He became more her support system so that everytime Eric was a douchecanoe, he was there to help her. Despite what matthew thought of himself, he was kind and sweet. He was also madly in love with Laura who was oblivious because she only wanted Eric. Again why no clue.
Over time Laura wasn't sure what she wanted and this caused confusion even for Matthew. Poor guy so didn't need this.
A wonderfully written book on love and what one wants. About finding who you are and finding support where you least expected it.
When she meets Matthew there is instant chemistry. Can feel it coming off the pages. These two sizzled but Matthew was afraid and withdrew. He became more her support system so that everytime Eric was a douchecanoe, he was there to help her. Despite what matthew thought of himself, he was kind and sweet. He was also madly in love with Laura who was oblivious because she only wanted Eric. Again why no clue.
Over time Laura wasn't sure what she wanted and this caused confusion even for Matthew. Poor guy so didn't need this.
A wonderfully written book on love and what one wants. About finding who you are and finding support where you least expected it.
November 21, 2014
Intoxicated (book 1 in the series) by Alicia Renee Kline. Lauren Jeffries, a bank mortgage underwriter who's life has just changed. She has gotten a promotion to corporate and is leaving her long time boyfriend (who I wanted to smack a few times), and her father and best friend when she moves 2 hours away.
Lauren finds a room for rent with Blake Snyder. The 2 become fast friends along with Blake's brother, Matthew. This is the story of her attempting to mesh those 2 worlds together.
The characters you are supposed to like, you will fall in love with and some you just want to shake. It actually seem so real - who doesn't act stupid at some point in their life about love.
I will warn you it has an ending that makes you scream and you will have to run and get the next installment to find out what happens - so not a fan of cliffhangers - make sure to get book 2 Shattered.
Lauren finds a room for rent with Blake Snyder. The 2 become fast friends along with Blake's brother, Matthew. This is the story of her attempting to mesh those 2 worlds together.
The characters you are supposed to like, you will fall in love with and some you just want to shake. It actually seem so real - who doesn't act stupid at some point in their life about love.
I will warn you it has an ending that makes you scream and you will have to run and get the next installment to find out what happens - so not a fan of cliffhangers - make sure to get book 2 Shattered.
December 28, 2015
This is my first read by Alicia Renee Kline and boy did she suck me in. I have so many thoughts and questions after finishing Intoxicated I cannot wait to Shattered! Oh and just so you know my review may be a bit biased because this girl is totally team Matthew! I was a little shocked how abrupt Lauren was when it came to Lauren and Matthew and what she thought of their friendship. I would have also thought Lauren's dad would hate Eric just as much as everyone else in her life. And Eric uhh there is just something wrong with him and I want to know what it is. Is he a cheater? Does he have some sort of ulterior motive for being with Lauren for so long. And Lauren really you are with someone who in 10 YEARS hasn't put a ring on it or even said I love you and throws a hissy fit you are moving 2 hours away. I'm not even going to go into all the other things we learn in this book. Great job, great writing.I look forward to continuing this series!
January 19, 2014
This was a great love story that reminded me what love is. Love is caring for each other and not waiting until you ignore your partner so much that they find happiness in the arms of another. Lauren was stuck in the middle of a love triangle. She did not know what path to choose. She was torn between her boyfriend and her room mate's brother. Eric did not support Lauren and that is what drove her into the arms of another man. Does he really have the right to try to get her back? I will not find out until the next book what she chooses to do. I really liked this story. While the concept of a love triangle is not new, the way the author incorporated Lauren's room mate and her home into the mix was a fun take. I am giving this book a 3/5. I was given a copy to review fro OrangeBerry Book Tours, however all opinions are my own.
October 3, 2014
I probably would have been able to follow the book better had I known it was the second book in the series. That being said, I absolutely loved this book. It is the perfect curl up in a blanket, and get lost in a great book on a rainy day kind of read. The characters are written so well you cannot help but feel a kind of kindred drawl to the story. And although like most romances now days, the book is filled with a lot of angst at the beginning it is not enough to turn you off, or to have you broken down in ugly tears. It does however pave the perfect road for Lauren and Matthews happily ever after. The author’s words about love, destiny and the what if’s in life were spot on and so beautifully written it will leave you wishing for your own happily ever after. This was one of the best feel good books I’ve read all year. I cannot wait to start the next book in the series.
October 17, 2014
This book was great. Okay not so great, but I am hooked. Lauren Jeffries is 26, newly promoted, moving away from "home", and in a dead end relationship. She meets her new landlord/roommate and knows they'll be good friends, maybe. Then she meets the brother Matthew. As time goes on they become closer and she becomes conflicted, stay with what she knows or go where the grass is greener?
I had a hard time with this character because really, you are not happy in your relationship yet you won't leave? Lauren is a practical girl, so why is she staying with such a douche? Then when she makes her big play for Matthew, she basically says "I'll only leave him if I get a better offer". And she wonders why he doesn't jump on that?
All that aside, I want to find out what happens and I want to know if/how Blake and Chris get back together.
I had a hard time with this character because really, you are not happy in your relationship yet you won't leave? Lauren is a practical girl, so why is she staying with such a douche? Then when she makes her big play for Matthew, she basically says "I'll only leave him if I get a better offer". And she wonders why he doesn't jump on that?
All that aside, I want to find out what happens and I want to know if/how Blake and Chris get back together.
December 21, 2014
I really enjoyed this book. It was a down to earth sweet story with a girl in a love triangle with one of the guys not deserving her love while the other she doesn't even know or give herself credit to be loved by this guy. The book has an amazing storyline that slowly unfolds into many of the character's past. I cannot stand Eric and cannot wait to read the next installment of this series to find out what happens with him in this book. I do not want not give any spoilers so I will just say there were times I wanted to take Lauren and smack her around and say "Snap out of it!" Most of the characters are really likable and even loveable. I would definitely recommend this book to others that enjoy the lighter side of romance.
July 20, 2014
This story has had me so emotional. I’ve laughed and cried on the same page but loved every minute of it. This book has a great loving connection between characters without all the graphic sex scene details.
Big changes are in Lauren’s life and she is handling them the best she can. She is making decisions that don’t always make everyone happy. To be in Lauren’s situation and have to choose between two hot men, WOW! Though the choice is clear, she is torn between what is and what could be.
Received this book as an ARC for an honest review and I am glad I did. Alicia Renee Kline is a great author and I am looking forward to the next in this series.
Big changes are in Lauren’s life and she is handling them the best she can. She is making decisions that don’t always make everyone happy. To be in Lauren’s situation and have to choose between two hot men, WOW! Though the choice is clear, she is torn between what is and what could be.
Received this book as an ARC for an honest review and I am glad I did. Alicia Renee Kline is a great author and I am looking forward to the next in this series.
July 25, 2014
This story has had me so emotional. I’ve laughed and cried on the same page but loved every minute of it. This book has a great loving connection between characters without all the graphic sex scene details.
Big changes are in Lauren’s life and she is handling them the best she can. She is making decisions that don’t always make everyone happy. To be in Lauren’s situation and have to choose between two hot men, WOW! Though the choice is clear, she is torn between what is and what could be.
I am glad that read this book. Alicia Renee Kline is a great author and I am looking forward to the next in this series.
Reviewed by: Rachel Farradzs
Big changes are in Lauren’s life and she is handling them the best she can. She is making decisions that don’t always make everyone happy. To be in Lauren’s situation and have to choose between two hot men, WOW! Though the choice is clear, she is torn between what is and what could be.
I am glad that read this book. Alicia Renee Kline is a great author and I am looking forward to the next in this series.
Reviewed by: Rachel Farradzs
May 4, 2015
I received this book for an honest review from Book Enthusiasts. Intoxicated will draw you into the story so fast that you won't be able to put it down.
Lauren, Eric, Matthew and Blake were such wonderful characters brought to life on the pages of this book. Their lives seemed so real and just jumped off the pages. But you need to read this book to know their story.
It will be worth it to become a part of this fantastic story.
My only disappointment was that it left you with a cliffhanger. I love book series, but I prefer each book is complete.
Lauren, Eric, Matthew and Blake were such wonderful characters brought to life on the pages of this book. Their lives seemed so real and just jumped off the pages. But you need to read this book to know their story.
It will be worth it to become a part of this fantastic story.
My only disappointment was that it left you with a cliffhanger. I love book series, but I prefer each book is complete.
November 15, 2014
I was given this book for an honest review.
I really enjoyed this book. The author did a great job at drawing me in to the life Lauren Jefferies! I was moved by her out look on the new people in her life's past. I love that Lauren is not judgmental. I was swept up in how she was planning to get out of the situation she finds herself in. The one thing I hated about this book is that it is a cliffhanger. I recommend this book as long as you grab the second book at the same time!
I really enjoyed this book. The author did a great job at drawing me in to the life Lauren Jefferies! I was moved by her out look on the new people in her life's past. I love that Lauren is not judgmental. I was swept up in how she was planning to get out of the situation she finds herself in. The one thing I hated about this book is that it is a cliffhanger. I recommend this book as long as you grab the second book at the same time!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews