Gretchen McKay had a new job on TV's longest running soap opera. She had a lot riding on her career and falling in love would just be a distraction.
Joel Perrin had a different story. He was ready to fall in love… he just didn't want to fall in love with Gretchen.
Against better judgment, the pair keep finding themselves giving in to their undeniable chemistry. When their feelings for one another become overwhelming, they're faced with a choice...
I've always explored various artistic mediums but nothing has ever captivated me like the world of literature. I am truly grateful to all the authors who have inspired me, and only hope I can contribute to the wonderful craft of storytelling.
I like games and kids and red Starburst. I like tattoos and koi fish and tattoos of koi fish. I like fresh air and gardening and sushi. I'm sure you'll read about my other interests because I draw inspiration from things I enjoy.
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I received a copy from the author in exchange for my honest review*
Gretchen is an actress in a daytime soap opera, and Joel is a scientist who just made an important breakthrough with the plastic on goggles. (if you had read the first book you will understand) Joel doesn't think that being with an actress is good for him, cause he doesn't like sharing and he can't share her with her co-stars.
I loved the fact that even though he thinks they aren't compatable they can't seem to stay away from each other... But everytime they are together you can sense the chemistry and sexual vibe!
Don't want to give too much away but they have to overcome some obsticles. Gretchen finds herself in a bit of a situation and has to make a decision. In the end, she figures out what she really wants and she just has to go fot it.
What I like about Casey's books (the two that I read) is that its such sweet books and I love the happily ever after that you get from these books. I like the fact that when you read the last page you finish it with a happy 'sigh'.
Thanks for the opportunity to read this book and looking forward to reading more.
This wasn’t quite as bad as book 1, but it wasn’t far off.
Joel was so possessive over Gretchen when she wasn’t anything to him! If he was that bothered about who she was dating then he should maybe have considered dating her instead of making demands and getting jealous.
The storyline in this was okay, although several things were pretty predictable.
Anyway, this book was alright if you ignored how controlling Joel was, and how predictable the plot was. 6.25 out of 10 ["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>
This book was an alright read for me, I mean I powered through it. Joel he's kind of a jealous one, "I can't stand to see you with another guy," he said. "I'm not okay with seeing him put his hands on you." He's not one to hide things he's like a caveman like that wants the world to know Gretchen is his girl, "yes I would Gretchen. I'm not ashamed of kissing you. I want to do it again. If you'd let me. I'd take you out there so our audience can see a reenactment live and in person." He's a great guy with a good heart, "I don't think that, I just want it to be mine. I want you to be mine. I just asked because...it doesn't matter It's mine." He smiled at me. "You both are." As I said it was an okay read.
Meh....I don't like ditching someone's work, but it was weak story with immature characters. I was confused about age group of characters, plus felt like I jumped into middle of story, realized it was 2nd book, but still should have been more info given to get you up to speed. Hero was way to sensitive to her and other males, came across as he had some issues.
***I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review ***
I liked both Gretchen and Joel's characters in the first book, and I was looking forward to reading this one to see if, and how their relationship would develop.
Seeing Clearly, picks up where Three years Later ended Rachel best friend, and former assistant Gretchen, landed her dream job as a character on America’s top soap opera Paradise Island. All is going well except that she can’t stop thinking about Joel Perrin one of Rachel’s clients who makes the goggles that every swimmer wants to wear.
Gretchen and Joel have always been attracted to each other they, and everyone else can see that they have chemistry; however, Gretchen and Joel seem to think it’s best if they are just friends even though deep down they know this is not true, and both want more.
“I didn’t want to believe it, but something about that girl just tugged at my heart like invisible strings tied between us. I literally felt pulled to her by my chest.”~ Joel
“I was out of my head over heels for this guy. Something about him just did it for me, took my breath away” ~ Gretchen
I liked Gretchen, independent and funny, but she was indecisive, and keeps going back and forth on her feelings for Joel. Joel was a good guy he was sweet, caring, and had the alphas male qualities that I like, but I did think he was too overprotective at times. I did find myself getting frustrated at times by both Gretchen and Joel who clearly needed to have their heads banged together.
I enjoyed the storyline; it was a fun and quick easy read that wasn’t too high on the drama that I happily read it in one sitting. Without giving too much away, they do have their fair share of troubles that include jealousy, lack of communication and insecurities. Both need to make some sacrifices, and overcome some personal issues if they are going to make their relationship work.
Told from both points of views you get both sides of the story and an insight into what they are feeling, and the reason behind some of their choices. I really liked them as a couple, and was rooting that they would get there in the end.
The secondary characters were great both old and new. Loved seeing Rachel and Collin again, and that you get a snippet into their lives. Rachel is a great best friend always telling Gretchen the truth even when she didn’t want to hear it. I like both Caleb and Cail great additions to the story. I loved Betty she made me laugh so many times.
Overall I enjoy this book more so that the first as I felt that the characters were more developed, and the storyline was more realistic. Even though it was a short one I enjoyed the pace and didn’t feel the story was rushed.
I liked the ended, and I know that some people won’t as it ends the same way as the first suddenly, but it did make me smile as the question I was thinking Emily’s character asks, and Collin answer did make me laugh. I realized that this is Casey McMillin's format she doesn’t leave you with a cliffhanger, but she does leave you wanting more.
If you were looking for a quick romantic story that is sweet, and engaging then I would recommend this book. I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the series Second String that is Ethan and Emily’s story, and knowing that Gretchen, Joel, Rachel and Collin will also be in it.
Seeing Clearly gets 4 Stars from me.
A few more quotes
“From a marketing standpoint, he had a perfect face. From where I stood right now, I wanted to rearrange It.” ~ Joel
“I felt an electrical in my gut every time my hand touched his” ~ Gretchen
“If anyone in this God-forsaken world can understand girls, could they please contact me and tell me what the bloody hell she just said?” ~Joel
I have to say I loved Three Years Later, so I was very excited to read Seeing Clearly and find out what happens with not only Gretchen and Joel, but also Rachel and Collin! This is a New Adult Romance so while their are some very steamy scenes, it's not too much that it overcrowds the story and plot line. Casey has a very unique way of telling a story and she did not disappoint with her second book in the series. ;)
Now, first of all I'd like to say (in case you are thinking the same thing I was thinking when I read the blurb) that I loved Gretchen in the first book (hilarious assistant and friend to Rachel), but I didn't really connect with Joel so I was a little skeptic about him being the lead character. But I'm honest and I can admit when I'm wrong....and let me tell you just how wrong I was to doubt Casey's brilliant mind! She made me love Joel!
Joel and Gretchen had some chemistry and attraction going for them in the first book but they denied their true feelings for one another an kept their relationship as friends only. Now of course you had to know this wasn't going to last long with the passion and jealousy that was flaring between these two!
Their relationship does develop a little slowly at first but trust me the sparks that ignite are well worth the journey and will have you turning pages faster than you can read! lol. I couldn't put the dang book down and you won't be able to either!
I have to say a big part of why I love this book is being able to see Rachel and Collin and how things are working out for them after "Three Years Later" too! God I really loved them! *sigh*
Joel and Gretchen will not have a perfect relationship. Their journey will have some road blocks that have the power to ruin their new and fragile relationship. The question is how they choose to address their problems...together or alone? They have such a strong connection it will have you totally engrossed and loving every minute!
While you can read this book as a stand-alone, I HIGHLY suggest you read Three Years Later first! I love everything Casey writes and I cannot wait for her next book in the series Second String! Fellow Cajun Girl Casey McMillin will be revealing her cover exclusively on my blog (Jenee's Book Blog). I am truly honored she is allowing me this honor and I'm truly excited for Second String to be released!
Gretchen has just landed her dream job on a soap opera and is accompanying her handsome co-star to a friends party. While there she runs into the man her head tells her to stay away from but her heart is a different story.
Joel arrives at the party and sees Gretchen about to kiss her new co-star which sends Joel into a fit of jealousy. Gretchen isn't his to be jealous of but he can't help wishing she was even though she doesn't fit into what he wants for his love life.
The more Gretchen and Joel try to avoid each other and the chemistry between them, the more they find themselves thrown together. When they finally give in to their passion, Gretchen runs scared. Joel makes it his mission to talk her back to him while at the same time trying to come to terms with the parts of her life that don't fit.
When Gretchen is confronted with a life changing decision, she knows she has to choose between what her mind says and what her heart wants.
I really enjoyed this book. It is a great story with strong willed characters. I really enjoyed the alternating POVs between Joel and Gretchen. It really helped me to understand them both as characters and see where they are coming from.
My thoughts:
Character development: 4.5 Level of Romance between characters: 4.5 Passion/Heat level: 4(there are several sex scenes in this one, a couple are really short and a couple not so short. Not a lot of steam to any of them but they are well written and fit well with the story.) Angst/Heartbreak: 4 (Both characters create a lot of obstacles for themselves) Cliffhanger?: Nope, this is part of a series but these characters get their hard fought HEA.
Overall, I thought this one was great. Although you don't have to read the first book in the series before reading this one, it does help. Characters from the first book make an appearance in this book and the first book is a jumping off point for Gretchen and Joel. Can't wait for the next book in the series.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
This is book two in the In Too Deep series, it’s a stand-alone, however, reading book 1 will definitely give a little more insight to all that is Gretchen and Joel.
Gretchen A humanitarian who falls head over heels in love with Joel Perrien, however, she doesn’t feel like he views her as adequate so she spends most of the book defending herself against a “miscommunication”. Gretchen is absolutely wonderful. Does she have her “bleh” moments? YES! My goodness Gretchen I could not understand what the big issue was UNTIL Joel opened his mouth and so ineloquently expressed his feelings in the first chapter and then I had a freaking Gru moment… He came off as a prick.
Joel Perrin He didn’t have the expected silver spoon upbringing, but now he has the silver spoon, the silver knife, fork and the complete dish set. Oh, and he has the forge to make them on his own. The man has money. And with money comes power, sometimes that power creates an ego bigger than Kanye West’s temper tantrums…
But Joel Perrin is not that man, infact, he is just a man looking to make a life out of what he never had, and Gretchen, she definitely fits the mold.
“I’d prefer if you don’t call me Mr. Perrin again, Gretchen. If you do, I’m going to have to take you to my car and show you what happens to girls who do that.”
Over all there were some literal LOL moments, but the story itself did feel a little rushed, and it was too short; I wanted more Gretchen and Joel ESPECIALLY after what happened. I feel like my emotions have been royally played with! Lol
*Received a free copy from the author for an honest review.
Review:
This book is the second in the series, In Too Deep. I haven’t read the first one but I catch up quite quickly to what’s going on. This book is about Gretchen and Joel. Their relationship is very complicated. Clearly they love each other a lot but they can’t be with each other because Joel doesn’t want to be in a relationship with an actress and Gretchen likes her job as an actress. In a way, I feel just like Joel about my lover being an actor. I mean I am a jealous type just like him. I don’t want to share my lover with anyone even if it’s his job, he’s mine and mine alone! Maybe that’s selfish of me but I can’t watch my lover being with someone else. So yeah, Joel and I feel the same. But then again, Gretchen really loves being an actress so it’s hard for her to give up that to be with Joel.
Despite them trying to be away from each other, they find their way back to each other because they just can’t stand being apart from each other. The more they stay away, the more they want each other. Joel is very jealous of Gretchen being with other guys even though she isn't even his. But he can't get her out of his head. He even tries to date but he isn't satisfies unless it's Gretchen.
When Gretchen is faced with an important decision, she knows her career as an actress is over. Something happens to her and she can't continues to work as an actress. She decides to get back with Joel and tells him that she loves him. They are finally together! It feels good to read about them being so in love.
I’m so glad everything works out for them in the end. I love happy ending! It put a big smile on my face when I finished it. It’s a very good read for me. I enjoyed reading it. It’s very romantic and who doesn’t love a happy ending? I look forward to reading the next one in the series.
Gretchen and Joel are friends. They connected over a trip to Vegas but they both are trying to convince themselves that a relationship would never work between the two of them. Joel doesn't think he could handle Gretchen's career as an actress on Paradise Island, the longest running soap opera. Gretchen is also trying to convince herself that she is not attracted to Joel in ways more than just knowing that he is hot. That being said, they find themselves not being able to say no to their desires and it doesn't help that they are both friends with the same people, who also are rooting for them to get together. I liked Gretchen, she is a very lovable character. I also liked that this was different from the first book. The build up to their relationship was more gradual and there were a lot more details added to this one. Joel could be pretty possessive at times but not in an out of control kind of way like some alpha males tend to be. I also like the way Joel handled everything towards the end of the story. There was a lot of back and forth between the two main characters but it didn't get old. For the most part both of them were pretty straightforward about what was going on and the parts where they were in denial about their feelings didn't seem to drag out like I feel like can happen when two people are trying to deny their feelings for each other. All in all I would recommend Seeing Clearly to those who are looking for a good romance. It can be read as a stand alone but I would recommend reading the first book Three Years Later first since there will be some spoilers and the story continues from the first one.
I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I really really enjoyed this book; this is everything I want from a new adult romance! It had a great love story along with being very steamy.
When I saw what this book was about I have to say I was a little disappointed because I was expecting a continuation of the first book not another love story from characters from the first one. That being said I am so happy this is the route the author took!
In the first book, Three Years Later, Gretchen was the very likable best friend/assistant to Rachel.
So where the first book was very fast paced and suspenseful this one took a little longer for the relationship to form (don't get me wrong you will read it quickly and won't be able to put it down).
Gretchen and Joel meet in the first book and although it is clear there is an attraction between them they both seem to want to keep their relationship in the friend zone. When the second book starts it is clear that they both are still trying to keep things platonic but are struggling as jealousy is getting the better of them.
Once Gretchen and Joel finally start to realize how far they have really fallen they come across some very big obstacles that may be too big to overcome. The connection between the two alone kept me from being able to put this book down and of course that fact that we still get a glimpse into Rachel and Collin!!
Can't say enough how much I enjoyed this book! This author has hooked me as a fan and will be grabbing any book she puts out. It seems like she also set this book up so a third can be written so let's keep our finger crossed!
*I received a copy from the author in exchange for my honest review*
Actual rating 3.5-4 stars.
"Seeing Clearly" is the second book of the "In too Deep series"; we get a glimpse in Joel's and Gretchen's story in the first book of the series, "Three Years Later", and we get to experience their journey in this book. I guess it can be read as a standalone, but i recommend reading "Three years later" first because it will definitely make more sense.
Another sweet, quick, drama-free story from Casey McMillin which i enjoyed reading very much. Story-wised, this novel was an obvious improvement from the first one, since it made more sense to me. This was not an insta-love romance like the first one, but you could feel and sense the insta-attraction, which is more acceptable and real for me.
Gretchen is an actress in a daytime soap opera, and Joel is a scientist who just made an important breakthrough with the plastic on goggles (hence the connection with Collin and Rachel, the main characters of the first book). Gretchen used to work for Rachel, before she landed the acting job, and that's where she met Joel. Joel first notices Gretchen as more as Rachel's PA in Vegas, but that story takes place in the first novel. Joel's denial to take his feelings for Gretchen seriously, because he can't handle being involved with an actress due to his jealousy issues, causes some amount of drama and angst throughout the book since it's the only thing keeping those two apart.
I really enjoyed reading this book, i finished it in one sitting and i definitely recommend it as a sweet, quick, semi-steamy read.
Received an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
Seeing Clearly by Casey McMillin is the second book in the In Too Deep series. Seeing Clearly starts off right where Three Years Later ends, but where Three Years Later was Rachel and Collin’s story this is Joel and Gretchen’s. We first get introduced to Joel and Gretchen in the first book of the series. Though this novel can be read as a standalone I would recommend reading Three Years Later first so you understand how Joel and Gretchen get to the point they are at when Seeing Clearly begins.
Gretchen’s dreams of being an actress are starting to come true when she is cast in a daytime soap opera and doesn’t want a relationship to hold her back. Joel is a self-made millionaire scientist who feels the only thing now missing in his life is love. Joel can’t deny the strong chemistry Gretchen and he share, but he knows he is way to jealous to ever be in a relationship with someone who acts for a living. They try to stay away from each other, but neither can keep the other out of their head. Joel finally stops fighting his feelings and decides Gretchen is who he wants, but Gretchen is stubborn and pushes Joel away. It isn’t until Gretchen’s life takes an unexpected turn that she finally admits her feeling for Joel and fears it may be too late.
I loved Joel! He is such a giving person and would do anything for the people he loves. Gretchen annoyed me for a good part of the novel and I just wanted to slap her upside the head to make her see that the things Joel did where always for her and because he cared about her. I’m glad she finally saw things for how they were and they got their HEA.
What a sweet story about Gretchen and Joel. I loved Gretchens character in the first book and she is a loveable fiery red head that is very independent. Joel Perrin is the successful goggle inventor that seemed attracted to Gretchen from the start but both of them were hesitant to give into their attraction.
Joel pursues Gretchen from the start at Colline and Rachel's wedding party and it all starts with a kiss. Gretchen doesn't want to give into her growing feelings because Joel seems to make it clear he enjoys her company and he is jealous of her talking to any other man but doesn't seem the settling down type.
Gretchen and Joel end up together a few times but Gretchen withdraws herself from him each time. She finds out she is pregnant and at a crossroads of many decisions.
But a few days before Christmas she becomes clear headed and decides to give into her deep feelings for Joel and on Christmas Eve they have a heart to heart. He reveals he is going to help open and fund her dream of a non profit arts center in the South side of the city. And Gretchen reveals she is pregnant and basicallly they are going to live HEA.
Sweet story, good characters, and the alternating POV between Joel & Gretchen is good. I will continue this series...enjoying all the intertwined characters from one book in the series to the next. And I love how each story is independent and has closure and happy endings each time but each book in the series picks up on different characters from the previous books.
Thank you Casey for the fun stories, you have a forever fan.
Summary Gretchen McKay had a new job on TV's longest running soap opera. She had no time to fall in love. Joel Perrin had a different story. He was ready to fall in love...just not with Gretchen. Against better judgment, the pair keep finding themselves giving in to their undeniable chemistry. When their feelings for one another become overwhelming, they are faced with a choice. Jump in or move on.
I absolutely loved this book. It is great as a self read, but I suggest you read "Three Years Later" before you read this book. The chemistry and or love/hate relationship between Gretchen and Joel is wonderful. They both harbor underlying feelings for each other but choose to ignore the obvious. Joel has an image of the perfect mate in his mind, and Gretchen doesn't fit the build. He has jealous nature and her choice of occupation doesn't suit him. Gretchen just can't seem to fight her instant attraction to Joel. She's aware of his image of what the perfect mate should be and dislikes him for it.But their attraction to each other seems to bring together no matter what. The sexual encounters are sensual not too graphic. The perfect mix that will leave you wanting more. Gretchen finds herself in a bit of bind and has a difficult decision to make. In the end, she figures out that what she wants and needs and they find each and embark on a whole new journey together.
**** arc exchanged for an honest review **** (((spoilers)))
So guess what.... this book is NOT about Rachel and Collin but about her friend Gretchen and Joel. So that kind of sucks right? I mean if you read the first book you might want more of the first couple. So once i saw who our main characters were, i am not going to lie... i put this book down. I was NOT about to get into another book to be let down again. I read a couple other books instead but i had this nagging feeling like i had to finish what i started, mostly because i told the author i would by signing up for this book. So i picked it up again this time expecting some G+L love. Thank you to the nagging! I did enjoy this book. I was of course frustrated with our girl Gretch but come on isnt everyone who read this book? You have a great guy GO GET HIM.
Now i understand not wanting to give up your job for a man. I understand not wanting to give away who you are. But if you love him and he loves you to the core sacrifices sometimes have to be made. Thankfully he's RICH and financially you'll be ok right?!
This book gave me my drama i wanted and my happily ever after! Thank you !!!!
I have to say that I really enjoyed this book! It's the kind os story that makes you read the book non stop! This delicious romance happens between Gretchen and Joel. Gretchen finally lands a part as actress of a famous soap opera, she is living one of her dreams... Although Joel has a huge attraction for Gretchen, he vow himself not being able to date an actress, he can stand see her to kiss or make any love scene. But with mutual friends, they see each other all the time, and became more difficult each day, to hide their feelings . One of them has to make the first step to be together, Joel is the man for the case, but he feel Gretchen getting out each time. Something unexpected happens and Gretchen realizes her love for Joel, but will be he william to give them another chance? Very sweet , this a really good romance!
So, I was anxious to read this one after reading the first in the series and this did not disappoint!! You get more of the characters from the first book, more depth on their outcome, plus the main focus of this story, Gretchen. I enjoyed getting to know her and see if Joel was more than meets the eye. I felt the author gave a lot of story in this book and I was thrilled!! This book gives more of the characters and story, so I was totally satisfied by the end!! I really just love the world the author has created and I enjoyed the interactions among everyone and of course their were some sexy scenes that were hot!! I would recommend this book to anyone that loves a great sweet story with a side of sexy!! Can't wait to read more from this author !!
Seeing Clearly is the second book in the In To Deep series. Being Rachael's assistant was just a temporary stepping stone while Gretchen worked on getting her dream. Some times the thing you want is right in front of you but you can's see past your own goals. Joel has become very successful in his plastic that have changed goggles and and soon maybe more. Both are set in how they are but are fighting a growing attraction with each other. But being so stubborn is keeping them from having a relationship that even their friends see would be good for both of them. Will Gretchen and Joel open their eyes and see that they are made for each other or will they let their stubbornness keep them from their happily ever after?
Okay i have to say i didn't know how she was going to top book one because that was totally adorable... But book 2 was just as fantastic with character with even stronger personalities and hearts of gold. I like they was that they go out of here way to help others and hat no matter how much they fight the attraction the old adage LOVE CONQUERS ALL still prevails
I labelled this book under athlete lmao because Joel uses exercise as a form of a stress reliever or something ...
A MUST READ AND ANOTHER GOLD STAR EFFORT. I LOVE THAT GRETCHEN GOT HER PRINCE CHARMING AND HE WAS OH SOOOOOOOO CHARMING IN HIS BRUCE WILLIS HOUSE LMAO
Seeing Clearly is the second book in the In Too Deep series by Casey McMillin. I absolutely love this series, but again I hated the abrupt ending to this book. If the author could just do one more chapter or an epilogue then this book would easily be a five star book, but the way it ends I just can't give it 5 stars. That being said I still loved the storyline and the characters. I think Casey did a great job of keeping the past characters stories alive in this book, but still focused on the main characters. Love the chemistry and friendship all the characters have. Looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
This book was given to me in exchange for an honest review.
DNF
This book just wasn't that interesting to have me finish it. I usually don't like not finishing books but this was just really boring. And I really HATE the cover! I know you shouldn't judge a book by its cover but it really sucked. I don't have anything against half-naked men in covers. It's probably the combination of the colors.
Now let's talk about the book, I just didn't feel this book. I wasn't able to connect with the characters but maybe it's just me.
After reading the first book in this series I found it hard to believe I would enjoy any story as well as Collin and Rachel's, but was I wrong!! Joel and Gretchen's story grabbed me and held on from the first few pages. I don't want to spoil it for anyone else so I won't get into all my favorite parts of this story but I will say... READ THIS BOOK!! You will not be disappointed. Hurry up and finish book three Casey I want to read Ethan and Emily's story!!!!
Joel and Gretchen obviously have a chemistry and it frustrates me because they kept on denying the obvious fact that they like each or rather they love each other. I like the book, but it's just frustrating because every time something good is happening to them already Gretchen will always get away to Joel it's like a cat-mouse chasing story. Well overall, I like the book. And I'll definitely recommend this to my friends.
the only thing I did not like about this book was the way it ended. I'm assuming there will be an In Too Deep #3 that will focus on Emily and Ethan then also expand on the whole Joel and Gretchen situation. I really want to know what they are going to have and if they decide to get married before the baby is born.
This book was actually a lot different from the first book…Three years later. Not saying I didn’t like it because I loved this one just as much as the first. I rooted for Gretchen and Joel the whole book. The ending was a little predictable but I would recommend for anyone that’s looking for a quick romantance book to read.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review....i really loved the story of Gretchen and Joel. They seemed to think that the other thought they weren't good for each other, but not in the way that some books has you mad at the characters. I loved how the book took them from what seemed to hate each other to those sweet moments where they would be alone. Overall great story!
This book was good, not as great as the first book in this series though. It felt a little disjointed, and just didnʻt have the energy as the first book. The characters seemed disjointed and continually out of sorts and their coming together in the end seemed awkward, somewhat rushed, like an afterthought.