What do you think?
Rate this book
Cruiser & Lex #1
Cruiser
Lex is the girl of Cruiser’s dreams. But his twin brother got to her first.
I’ve got a million voices telling me why I shouldn’t kiss her. She’s Rey’s girl and off limits. He’s been good to her. I know he will continue to be good to her. Look out for her, protect her. Lex’s been good to him, too. Only a jerk would try to break them up, and I’m no jerk.
But dammit, I want her.
I’ve got a million voices telling me why I shouldn’t kiss her. She’s Rey’s girl and off limits. He’s been good to her. I know he will continue to be good to her. Look out for her, protect her. Lex’s been good to him, too. Only a jerk would try to break them up, and I’m no jerk.
But dammit, I want her.
202 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 25, 2013
4 people are currently reading
345 people want to read
About the author
Dee J. Stone
47 books90 followersDee J. Stone is the pseudonym of two sisters who write YA and adult fiction. Their titles include the Keepers of Justice series, the Blue Masked Hero, the Cruiser & Lex series, the Merman's Kiss series, the Genie's Love series, Emily's Curse, and Chasing Sam.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
August 12, 2013
Before I begin, I was given a copy of this book for an honest review.
"My insides feel like seaweed. Yes, I remember how he hurt me. Yes, I remember the pain he caused my family. But since he came back, I've started feeling things. Deep things. Things I've never even come close to feeling with another person. My boyfriend's twin brother."
Gosh, this book!! I am just sitting here with a blank look on my face and my stomach in knots because of this book!! I am absolutely amazed at the addictive writing style, intense relationships among Cruiser, Rey, and Lex, and of course, the romance! Fans of Abbi Glines' Vincent Boys series will definitely love this book!
When I first read the blurb of this book, I knew I would be hooked! I love the forbidden/off-limits/do-not-violate-bro-code romances such as Cruiser and I loved it so much I read it in one sitting. I love how Dee uses alternating POVs between Lex and Cruiser. It really gave me an in-depth look at both of the characters' thoughts and added context that otherwise would have been missing if this story was just in Lex's POV.
I want her in so many ways, but mostly in an emotional way. To be able to tell her everything, share everything. Just like we did years ago. To give to her and expect nothing in return. Because she's my girl and I love her."
You can really tell Cruiser has had longtime feelings for Lex. Not just lust and attraction, but a deep, abiding love that transcends earthly desire. What I love about this story plot is that Dee doesn't just write about Lex and Cruiser's relationship after they got together; this story mainly tells about their struggles, their journey of forgiveness, and how they got together. The anger, the pain, the betrayal, the angst, the struggle, all of these emotions are there and to me, that's what makes this book stand out. It's important that they end up together, but their journey getting there is even more important.
"Truth is, I'm scared. Yeah, I'll admit it. When she was with Rey, she was only a dream. Now she's a possibility. A reality. I'm scared like hell."
It's really heartwarming when authors include minute details that stand out and point towards a deep bond between characters. Lex and Cruiser understand one another, completely, and no one, not even Rey, could break or intrude on that bond.
"This ship is Cruiser's prized possession. He kept it all these years, in the same spot. Something warm invades my heart. The feeling gets bigger and bigger and I'm scared my heart will explode. I touch the side of my case. The memory comes so clear it's like it just happened an hour ago."
There were many rough patches in the book and it just tore at my heart when Lex and Cruiser couldn't be together. In certain parts I wanted to smack some sense into Lex so I was really glad she had her best friend Dani to do that for me. On a side note, I love how this book doesn't just explore the dynamics of Lex and Cruiser's relationship, but also handles friendship and family relationships. I love that! Dani is probably one of the most honest and heartfelt secondary characters I have read, which only adds to her appeal.
"I'm worried I might grow too attached, give him my heart, and let it get crushed again. I'm worried he might turn out to be another abusive ass, like Jimmy. But mostly, I'm terrified I might screw up my chance with a great guy. I don't think I deserve him."
See what I mean? It is rare for characters to be so open and honest about their feelings so Dani is a real breath of fresh air, even if she isn't the heroine. As for Lex, yes I was annoyed at some of her immature decisions, yes I wanted to see her be decisive, but then again, this is what makes the book so strong. Without experiencing what Lex went through, she never would have been able to face her insecurities and move on. By the time I finished 80% of the book, Lex definitely matured, from the way she handled her breakup with Rey, her feelings for Cruiser, her future with her mom, and her love and support for Rosie.
"I'm in a better place than I was a month ago. I feel like I grew. I've learned to forgive myself for Rosie's accident. I helped paste my family back together. I know what I want to do with my life. What's best for me. I learned to open my heart once again."
Another aspect I loved about this book was the relationship between Rey and Cruiser. They, too, have a deep bond that only comes from being twin brothers, and nothing, not even Lex, could shake their foundation. I felt bad for Rey since he shouldered a lot of his parents' expectations but he, too, matured by the end of the book.
"When you came back, I knew you liked her. I knew you wanted her. It made me feel good to have something you wanted. This was the first time a girl chose me over you. I knew you wanted her, but I didn't care. You've always been there for me, always put yourself before me. And I kept the one thing you really wanted away from you, just to boost my ego."
Dee does it again! This kind of honesty is just SO rare and really shows how strong Rey and Cruiser's bond is for Rey to be so open with Cruiser and wish he and Lex have a lasting relationship.
This book really tugged at my heartstrings. I enjoyed the plot, the character development, and the incredibly real family issues portrayed in the book. This book truly is a gem!
5 STARS!!!
"My insides feel like seaweed. Yes, I remember how he hurt me. Yes, I remember the pain he caused my family. But since he came back, I've started feeling things. Deep things. Things I've never even come close to feeling with another person. My boyfriend's twin brother."
Gosh, this book!! I am just sitting here with a blank look on my face and my stomach in knots because of this book!! I am absolutely amazed at the addictive writing style, intense relationships among Cruiser, Rey, and Lex, and of course, the romance! Fans of Abbi Glines' Vincent Boys series will definitely love this book!
When I first read the blurb of this book, I knew I would be hooked! I love the forbidden/off-limits/do-not-violate-bro-code romances such as Cruiser and I loved it so much I read it in one sitting. I love how Dee uses alternating POVs between Lex and Cruiser. It really gave me an in-depth look at both of the characters' thoughts and added context that otherwise would have been missing if this story was just in Lex's POV.
I want her in so many ways, but mostly in an emotional way. To be able to tell her everything, share everything. Just like we did years ago. To give to her and expect nothing in return. Because she's my girl and I love her."
You can really tell Cruiser has had longtime feelings for Lex. Not just lust and attraction, but a deep, abiding love that transcends earthly desire. What I love about this story plot is that Dee doesn't just write about Lex and Cruiser's relationship after they got together; this story mainly tells about their struggles, their journey of forgiveness, and how they got together. The anger, the pain, the betrayal, the angst, the struggle, all of these emotions are there and to me, that's what makes this book stand out. It's important that they end up together, but their journey getting there is even more important.
"Truth is, I'm scared. Yeah, I'll admit it. When she was with Rey, she was only a dream. Now she's a possibility. A reality. I'm scared like hell."
It's really heartwarming when authors include minute details that stand out and point towards a deep bond between characters. Lex and Cruiser understand one another, completely, and no one, not even Rey, could break or intrude on that bond.
"This ship is Cruiser's prized possession. He kept it all these years, in the same spot. Something warm invades my heart. The feeling gets bigger and bigger and I'm scared my heart will explode. I touch the side of my case. The memory comes so clear it's like it just happened an hour ago."
There were many rough patches in the book and it just tore at my heart when Lex and Cruiser couldn't be together. In certain parts I wanted to smack some sense into Lex so I was really glad she had her best friend Dani to do that for me. On a side note, I love how this book doesn't just explore the dynamics of Lex and Cruiser's relationship, but also handles friendship and family relationships. I love that! Dani is probably one of the most honest and heartfelt secondary characters I have read, which only adds to her appeal.
"I'm worried I might grow too attached, give him my heart, and let it get crushed again. I'm worried he might turn out to be another abusive ass, like Jimmy. But mostly, I'm terrified I might screw up my chance with a great guy. I don't think I deserve him."
See what I mean? It is rare for characters to be so open and honest about their feelings so Dani is a real breath of fresh air, even if she isn't the heroine. As for Lex, yes I was annoyed at some of her immature decisions, yes I wanted to see her be decisive, but then again, this is what makes the book so strong. Without experiencing what Lex went through, she never would have been able to face her insecurities and move on. By the time I finished 80% of the book, Lex definitely matured, from the way she handled her breakup with Rey, her feelings for Cruiser, her future with her mom, and her love and support for Rosie.
"I'm in a better place than I was a month ago. I feel like I grew. I've learned to forgive myself for Rosie's accident. I helped paste my family back together. I know what I want to do with my life. What's best for me. I learned to open my heart once again."
Another aspect I loved about this book was the relationship between Rey and Cruiser. They, too, have a deep bond that only comes from being twin brothers, and nothing, not even Lex, could shake their foundation. I felt bad for Rey since he shouldered a lot of his parents' expectations but he, too, matured by the end of the book.
"When you came back, I knew you liked her. I knew you wanted her. It made me feel good to have something you wanted. This was the first time a girl chose me over you. I knew you wanted her, but I didn't care. You've always been there for me, always put yourself before me. And I kept the one thing you really wanted away from you, just to boost my ego."
Dee does it again! This kind of honesty is just SO rare and really shows how strong Rey and Cruiser's bond is for Rey to be so open with Cruiser and wish he and Lex have a lasting relationship.
This book really tugged at my heartstrings. I enjoyed the plot, the character development, and the incredibly real family issues portrayed in the book. This book truly is a gem!
5 STARS!!!
August 18, 2013
Copy provided by author for an honest review. Thank you!
What I loved about the book:
1. I love the Cover.
2. Cruiser's name and why he got this name. (not his real one)
3. Dual POV
4. Fast paced
5. Loved the second half of the book.
6. Dani- one of the best book BFFs I've seen in a book in a long time.
7. A few tingling blushing kissing scenes.
8. How Cruiser was with Rosie.
9. Cruiser's gift to Lexi.
10. Their first official date.
11. Lexi's mature talk with Rey at his house.
12. Cruiser's support for Lexi in regards to her dance squad.
13. The good flash backs of the twins being friends with Lexi.
14. The twins had a very close and good relationship.
15. I appreciated the hard scene Lexi had to make happen with Rey and that she wasn't a chicken or wishy washy about it.
16. I liked how the ending played out.
Lexi feels guilty for Rosie's unfortunate accident. She's so consumed by it that it affects her daily. She also incorrectly places all the blame on Cruiser. However, she's not the only one consumed by guilt. There are two others who feel just as much of the blame that Lexi feels.
Cruiser feels hurt and guilt for the accident with Rosie and how Lexi was towards him after it happened. He starts acting out and being stupid which causes more pain for Lexi because of some of his choices. He's now home and he wants Lexi back. However, he's torn between his brother and the love of his life. He doesn't want them hurt or to break up yet at the same time he really wants them to break up. He's not sure what to do or how to be around Lexi but he tries to be a good brother and support Rey in regards to Lexi.
Rey is Cruisers twin brother. He's the perfect son and Cruiser is the "messed up" one. He feels all of this pressure but no one seems to notice. He's got his first girlfriend, Lexi , and he's pretty sure he's in love with her. He does know one thing, he's finally got a girl that Cruiser doesn't.
Dani is Lexi's best friend. She was so awesome; I loved her. She gave out the best advice that made Lexi, and Cruiser, decide the final out come all on their own with no biased opinions from Dani. She gave her advice straight up with out prejudice and whatever came from it was on that person making the decision. I was also pleased to see that she too changes some things in her life towards the end.
Both sets of parents, and the twins father's parents, weren't all that great. The twins parents were horrible with Cruiser. Lexi's parents didn't see all the hurt they were causing their daughters. I was pleased to see they tried to straighten up their acts eventually.
At the start of the book Cruiser moves back home after a year away for bad behavior. Lexi and his twin, Rey, are dating. Cruiser had no idea and feels blind sided. Lexi treats Cruiser to her anger for awhile. Rey is clueless but he's also consumed by pressures in other parts of his life. Lexi and Cruiser fight their attraction towards each other until they can't anymore. Lexi and Cruiser have to decide what's best for them and how their relationship with Rey will be affected.
I really loved the second half of the book the most. I liked the first half as we needed to go through all we did to get to best part, Lexi and Cruiser. ;) I loved Dani and her advice and involvement as a best friend. I felt Cruiser was a good person and a very good brother and no one seemed to see this about him but Lexi and Rey. Cruiser takes the heat for Rey when he shouldn't but that just proves he would do anything for Rey.
I would have liked an epilogue to see a little bit in to their future. Maybe around college years? :)
Content: language. Light drinking and drug use.
What I loved about the book:
1. I love the Cover.
2. Cruiser's name and why he got this name. (not his real one)
3. Dual POV
4. Fast paced
5. Loved the second half of the book.
6. Dani- one of the best book BFFs I've seen in a book in a long time.
7. A few tingling blushing kissing scenes.
8. How Cruiser was with Rosie.
9. Cruiser's gift to Lexi.
10. Their first official date.
11. Lexi's mature talk with Rey at his house.
12. Cruiser's support for Lexi in regards to her dance squad.
13. The good flash backs of the twins being friends with Lexi.
14. The twins had a very close and good relationship.
15. I appreciated the hard scene Lexi had to make happen with Rey and that she wasn't a chicken or wishy washy about it.
16. I liked how the ending played out.
Lexi feels guilty for Rosie's unfortunate accident. She's so consumed by it that it affects her daily. She also incorrectly places all the blame on Cruiser. However, she's not the only one consumed by guilt. There are two others who feel just as much of the blame that Lexi feels.
Cruiser feels hurt and guilt for the accident with Rosie and how Lexi was towards him after it happened. He starts acting out and being stupid which causes more pain for Lexi because of some of his choices. He's now home and he wants Lexi back. However, he's torn between his brother and the love of his life. He doesn't want them hurt or to break up yet at the same time he really wants them to break up. He's not sure what to do or how to be around Lexi but he tries to be a good brother and support Rey in regards to Lexi.
Rey is Cruisers twin brother. He's the perfect son and Cruiser is the "messed up" one. He feels all of this pressure but no one seems to notice. He's got his first girlfriend, Lexi , and he's pretty sure he's in love with her. He does know one thing, he's finally got a girl that Cruiser doesn't.
Dani is Lexi's best friend. She was so awesome; I loved her. She gave out the best advice that made Lexi, and Cruiser, decide the final out come all on their own with no biased opinions from Dani. She gave her advice straight up with out prejudice and whatever came from it was on that person making the decision. I was also pleased to see that she too changes some things in her life towards the end.
Both sets of parents, and the twins father's parents, weren't all that great. The twins parents were horrible with Cruiser. Lexi's parents didn't see all the hurt they were causing their daughters. I was pleased to see they tried to straighten up their acts eventually.
At the start of the book Cruiser moves back home after a year away for bad behavior. Lexi and his twin, Rey, are dating. Cruiser had no idea and feels blind sided. Lexi treats Cruiser to her anger for awhile. Rey is clueless but he's also consumed by pressures in other parts of his life. Lexi and Cruiser fight their attraction towards each other until they can't anymore. Lexi and Cruiser have to decide what's best for them and how their relationship with Rey will be affected.
I really loved the second half of the book the most. I liked the first half as we needed to go through all we did to get to best part, Lexi and Cruiser. ;) I loved Dani and her advice and involvement as a best friend. I felt Cruiser was a good person and a very good brother and no one seemed to see this about him but Lexi and Rey. Cruiser takes the heat for Rey when he shouldn't but that just proves he would do anything for Rey.
I would have liked an epilogue to see a little bit in to their future. Maybe around college years? :)
Content: language. Light drinking and drug use.
August 17, 2013
A copy Kindly provided by Author in exchange for an honest review
RATING CLARIFICATION : 3.5 STARS
I have some mixed feelings about this book. For the most part I did enjoy this book but I think it took to long to get to that part of the book. The beginning of the book seemed kind of slow going for me. I understand that the beginning of the book was meant to set up the story but to me it dragged a little without a whole lot of character development. Once I hit the 50% mark the book turned into one I really liked. The real meat of the story started to come out around this point in the book. I just wish the connection between Cruiser and Lex could of come out sooner. Once those two started to open up to each other, the story became really interesting, to the point that I couldn't put it down. I wanted to see how everything was going to turn out. Besides this being a love story/triangle between Lex and Twin brothers, Cruiser and Rey, it was about two families trying to figure things out. This was truly a sweet love story, plus a story about forgiveness and realizing you need to put oneself first and make yourself happy. This book has been kind of compared to Abbi Glines The Vincent Boys and I see where the connection comes in with the love triangle but to me thats where it stops. This is truly a story in its own.
I will say that I did have a slight problem connecting with the characters. Lex drove me crazy in the first half of the book. She was very wishy washy about how she felt about both Rey and Cruiser. I didn't understand why she placed all the blame on Cruiser for the accident that happened over a year ago. When Cruiser comes back into town I truly think that they really needed to sit down and talk things out. Plus she kept saying how she wanted things to go back to normal in her house, but she was guilty of changing things as well, she was willing to give up something she loved for something she thought would help her sister. I was glad to see as the story went on that she changed her mind and decided that the way to get back to normal is to accept the current situation for what it is and still do what she loved. I felt her character grew quite a bit throughout the story. Now Rey and Cruiser....I don't know exactly how I feel about them. I don't think their characters were developed enough for me to connect to either one. I always felt like Rey was hiding something and was waiting for his secret to come out, but come to find out that was all in my head....LOL :) Cruiser I think had the potential to be a great hero. He was definitely my pick throughout the whole story. I loved when he would call Lex Darlin'...made me tingle. I wish we would have gotten more of that through out the whole story. I will say I was extremely happy with how this story turned out, I agree with who Lex ends up with. I am not going to say who, you'll need to read the book to find out. I will say that I never questioned the feelings that all three characters had for each other. I really felt that they were genuine. I'll even say that there were a couple scene that were kind of steamy and made me blush.
There was only one main secondary character, besides the parents, which was Dani. I thought she was a great bff to Lex. She showed her support and gave her advice without actually telling her what to do. She made sure that Lex knew that what ever decision she made she made by herself for herself. I was also glad to see Dani grow as a character as well, when it came to handling things in her own life. In regards to the parents...I have to say I didn't like any of them. I thought they were horrible to their kids, I wanted to smack all of them and say wake up!!!!!
With all that said, I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a sweet YA love triangle story. This story was truly a story about love, loss, forgiveness and finding ones true self. I am glad that I got the chance to read this book.
RATING CLARIFICATION : 3.5 STARS
I have some mixed feelings about this book. For the most part I did enjoy this book but I think it took to long to get to that part of the book. The beginning of the book seemed kind of slow going for me. I understand that the beginning of the book was meant to set up the story but to me it dragged a little without a whole lot of character development. Once I hit the 50% mark the book turned into one I really liked. The real meat of the story started to come out around this point in the book. I just wish the connection between Cruiser and Lex could of come out sooner. Once those two started to open up to each other, the story became really interesting, to the point that I couldn't put it down. I wanted to see how everything was going to turn out. Besides this being a love story/triangle between Lex and Twin brothers, Cruiser and Rey, it was about two families trying to figure things out. This was truly a sweet love story, plus a story about forgiveness and realizing you need to put oneself first and make yourself happy. This book has been kind of compared to Abbi Glines The Vincent Boys and I see where the connection comes in with the love triangle but to me thats where it stops. This is truly a story in its own.
I will say that I did have a slight problem connecting with the characters. Lex drove me crazy in the first half of the book. She was very wishy washy about how she felt about both Rey and Cruiser. I didn't understand why she placed all the blame on Cruiser for the accident that happened over a year ago. When Cruiser comes back into town I truly think that they really needed to sit down and talk things out. Plus she kept saying how she wanted things to go back to normal in her house, but she was guilty of changing things as well, she was willing to give up something she loved for something she thought would help her sister. I was glad to see as the story went on that she changed her mind and decided that the way to get back to normal is to accept the current situation for what it is and still do what she loved. I felt her character grew quite a bit throughout the story. Now Rey and Cruiser....I don't know exactly how I feel about them. I don't think their characters were developed enough for me to connect to either one. I always felt like Rey was hiding something and was waiting for his secret to come out, but come to find out that was all in my head....LOL :) Cruiser I think had the potential to be a great hero. He was definitely my pick throughout the whole story. I loved when he would call Lex Darlin'...made me tingle. I wish we would have gotten more of that through out the whole story. I will say I was extremely happy with how this story turned out, I agree with who Lex ends up with. I am not going to say who, you'll need to read the book to find out. I will say that I never questioned the feelings that all three characters had for each other. I really felt that they were genuine. I'll even say that there were a couple scene that were kind of steamy and made me blush.
There was only one main secondary character, besides the parents, which was Dani. I thought she was a great bff to Lex. She showed her support and gave her advice without actually telling her what to do. She made sure that Lex knew that what ever decision she made she made by herself for herself. I was also glad to see Dani grow as a character as well, when it came to handling things in her own life. In regards to the parents...I have to say I didn't like any of them. I thought they were horrible to their kids, I wanted to smack all of them and say wake up!!!!!
With all that said, I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a sweet YA love triangle story. This story was truly a story about love, loss, forgiveness and finding ones true self. I am glad that I got the chance to read this book.
August 16, 2013
3.5 Stars
This was a decent book. It wasn’t horrible, but I didn’t love it so much that I couldn’t put it down. But, it was a satisfactory read.
I really liked Cruiser. He’s your typical bad boy that was trying to change, to be better. But he was a genuinely decent guy. He loved his brother and he loved a girl. Unfortunately, the girl was his brother’s girlfriend.
Lex…I’m not sure what to say. Overall, she was just ok. But to start out, I really didn’t like her. I get that she had been through a lot but her attitude was off the charts horrible. She was off-putting. When her attitude started to change, my feeling about her changed. I didn’t lover her, but I warmed up to her.
Rey. I didn’t like him. It’s as simple as that. He was the “perfect” brother. He could do no wrong in the eyes of his parents. But he was also a jerk and a coward. He let his brother take the fall for things he did and granted, in the book there weren’t many (but a few), but one was one too many. He never manned up and accepted responsibility. However, he did finally admit that .
Ok…the accident/drama…I was disappointed in it. From the way the book started, I thought for sure that Cruiser was driving the car when the accident happened. Lex blamed him so that had to be it. But that wasn’t it. He was blamed for something he didn’t do. Something he had no part in. He was blamed for being there with Lex when it happened. And I’m not talking about the parents, I’m talking about Lex blaming him. It really boiled down to Lex couldn’t handle her own guilt for not paying attention to her sister so she blamed Cruiser. And it was extreme. Just seeing him at her house (for a perfectly logical reason) had her threatening to call the police. It was just…off putting.
So, overall, this was a decent story, with a great guy (Cruiser) who was in love with a girl who felt so guilty she blamed him and took it out on him. There’s definitely some drama but not a lot of angst, which I was happy about. I would definitely say this is a book worth checking out. And I would definitely read more from the author.
Copy provided by author in exchange for an honest review.
This was a decent book. It wasn’t horrible, but I didn’t love it so much that I couldn’t put it down. But, it was a satisfactory read.
I really liked Cruiser. He’s your typical bad boy that was trying to change, to be better. But he was a genuinely decent guy. He loved his brother and he loved a girl. Unfortunately, the girl was his brother’s girlfriend.
Lex…I’m not sure what to say. Overall, she was just ok. But to start out, I really didn’t like her. I get that she had been through a lot but her attitude was off the charts horrible. She was off-putting. When her attitude started to change, my feeling about her changed. I didn’t lover her, but I warmed up to her.
Rey. I didn’t like him. It’s as simple as that. He was the “perfect” brother. He could do no wrong in the eyes of his parents. But he was also a jerk and a coward. He let his brother take the fall for things he did and granted, in the book there weren’t many (but a few), but one was one too many. He never manned up and accepted responsibility. However, he did finally admit that .
Ok…the accident/drama…I was disappointed in it. From the way the book started, I thought for sure that Cruiser was driving the car when the accident happened. Lex blamed him so that had to be it. But that wasn’t it. He was blamed for something he didn’t do. Something he had no part in. He was blamed for being there with Lex when it happened. And I’m not talking about the parents, I’m talking about Lex blaming him. It really boiled down to Lex couldn’t handle her own guilt for not paying attention to her sister so she blamed Cruiser. And it was extreme. Just seeing him at her house (for a perfectly logical reason) had her threatening to call the police. It was just…off putting.
So, overall, this was a decent story, with a great guy (Cruiser) who was in love with a girl who felt so guilty she blamed him and took it out on him. There’s definitely some drama but not a lot of angst, which I was happy about. I would definitely say this is a book worth checking out. And I would definitely read more from the author.
Copy provided by author in exchange for an honest review.
July 11, 2014
Free download. This was a sweet romance, but just happens to be a love triangle. Lex, Rey & Cruiser have been friends since they were 5, Lex was always closer to Cruiser. Cruiser and Rey are twins but very different. Lex is a sweet, caring person but an accident causing her sister's paralysis, changes things for Lex and Cruiser. Guilt eats at them both, pushing them apart. Cruiser leaves, breaking Lex's heart and eventually pushing her toward Rey. When Cruiser returns home the situation changes again but will the trio have a HEA or will their feelings hurt them even more. This story was told from Lex and Cruisers point of view, I enjoyed the way you get 2 perspectives. The story is nice, dealing with the usual teenage angst but also an unusual love triangle. The characters are cute, but meaningful for the story. I enjoyed this read, it's not too complicated and look forward to reading it's sequel.
July 3, 2013
I was blessed to have been able to beta read this book and even get a chance to read snippets on a forum. I LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE CRUISER!!! I fell in love with both main characters' story. I felt for them the entire way through and kept wanting them to get together ASAP but of course they had a big problem - Lex was dating Cruiser's brother, Rey. Honestly, I was sucked into this story. If I wasn't reading it a couple chapters at a time, I'd have finished the entire thing in one day! It's that brilliant. I only wish I could have more of their story to read!
I highly recommend this book by a good writer friend! GO GET IT NOW!
I highly recommend this book by a good writer friend! GO GET IT NOW!
August 18, 2013
i was kindly provided with this book for an honest review and i can honestly say that I really enjoyed this book
I loved, loved, loved cruiser!!! I felt like he was as genuinely decent guy but no one saw this side of him, except his twin brother rey. He really cared for lex but having come back from being in new York for 6 months they only problem is that lex is now dating rey. as the story progressed I felt sorry for rey but the connection between cruiser and lex. I really liked finding out how cruiser got his name as I was confused when he kept getting called Elvis. alternating POV's are always favourites of mine too. well done, would recommend :)
I loved, loved, loved cruiser!!! I felt like he was as genuinely decent guy but no one saw this side of him, except his twin brother rey. He really cared for lex but having come back from being in new York for 6 months they only problem is that lex is now dating rey. as the story progressed I felt sorry for rey but the connection between cruiser and lex. I really liked finding out how cruiser got his name as I was confused when he kept getting called Elvis. alternating POV's are always favourites of mine too. well done, would recommend :)
August 13, 2013
I think this was an absolutely amazing book. I wouldn't say it was one of my favorites, but I enjoyed this book from the cover to the very last page. This book had two things that I look for in a book, a love triangle and the bad boy. I easily would have given this book a 5 star review if there would have been something at the end telling me that there was another book coming to tell me Rey's story of going away to school and how Cruisers relationship turned out with both his parents and with Lex.
August 8, 2013
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
This is a YA book. In this book we meet Rey, Cruiser and Lex. They are all friends until Rosie (Lex's sister) has an accident that leaves her in a wheelchair. That accident changes the dynamic of their friendship.
I loved this book. It was well written. The author draws you into the story right from the beginning. When you start reading it make sure you have time to read because you won't want to put it down.
This is a YA book. In this book we meet Rey, Cruiser and Lex. They are all friends until Rosie (Lex's sister) has an accident that leaves her in a wheelchair. That accident changes the dynamic of their friendship.
I loved this book. It was well written. The author draws you into the story right from the beginning. When you start reading it make sure you have time to read because you won't want to put it down.
July 3, 2013
It’s been a long journey working on Cruiser (over three years) and I knew this story was one I couldn’t give up on. I’m so glad to finally be able to share it with everyone. I hope you enjoy it! :)
July 17, 2013
I really really loved reading this story! I love the characters! My emotions were all over the place while reading this book!!
February 27, 2020
DNF, characters were too one dimensional.
The writing was terrible aswell,
exhibit A (actual quote from book)
"It takes all my damn willpower not to leap over over the counter and kiss those Rice Krispy eyes"
Ew gross.
Not a read for SpecialBooks
The writing was terrible aswell,
exhibit A (actual quote from book)
"It takes all my damn willpower not to leap over over the counter and kiss those Rice Krispy eyes"
Ew gross.
Not a read for SpecialBooks
July 24, 2014
Cruiser was a bit frustrating at times. Lex was annoying at times, but she is also a teenager so...I don't know. it was a bit too much drama for me and too much wishy washy emotions.
Cruiser, Rey, and Lex have always been best friends. Lex has always been closer to Cruiser, but then there was an accident involving Lex's sister that leaves the sister in a wheelchair and Lex blames Cruiser. Since Lex shut him out, and he is the "bad" son, he goes away for a bit. When he comes back Lex and Rey are an item, and Cruiser tries not to do anything to break them up. Cruiser has always been the one to take the blame for everything, helping his twin, Rey, not get in trouble. Rey is the perfect son, the one who does everything right. Cruiser thinks Rey and Lex are in love, so he tries to stay out of it even though it kills him to see them together.
Lex is ridiculous when it comes to Cruiser. When you find out what really happened the night of the accident it is just like wait what? Lex blames Cruiser so I just assumed he was driving the car that hit Rosie, Lex's sister. Nope. It was just....Lex cannot handle that she is to blame as well so she just lashes out at Cruiser for no reason. When she sees Cruiser in her house talking with Rosie she loses it! She is so nasty to him, so hurtful, so ridiculous I didn't get it. She just....at the same time she still has feelings for him. It was just not written in a way that I enjoyed, it just made me annoyed with Lex.
Lex also doesn't seem to be really happy with Rey. Sure she loves him, he was there for her after the accident and after Cruiser left, but there is not the passion and desire like there is for Cruiser. Once Cruiser comes back Lex realizes that things with Rey really aren't working. Does she do something about this? Well not really, other than blame herself for him not wanting to hang out, or make out, or spend time with her. She should be more supportive of all of his activities and things he does instead of spending time with her. I just...obviously she wasn't in love with him, and he wasn't in love with her. They didn't work like that, and Rey didn't really make an effort to be there for Lex so it was just like when is this going to be over already? Obviously she likes Cruiser, obviously Rey knows this, but he wants to keep her because Cruiser wants her. It was just...
I didn't like Rey much in this book either. He is supposed to be the perfect son, but he just lets Cruiser take the blame for things he does. He is so weak and cowardly it was just a put off. Cruiser on the other hand I really enjoyed. I wanted him to be happy and get what he wanted. I wanted him to have everything, especially since he had a terrible home life. His parents were never there for him, he had Lex but then she blames him for something that isn't his fault and pulls away, so the only one he has left is Rey, who just is not that great of a brother to him. Cruiser seemed like a great guy. Sure, everything didn't come as easily to him as it did to Rey, but he wasn't stupid. He had different desires and needs and his parents just wanted him to be a second Rey, which doesn't work. Without liking Cruiser as much as I did I would not have enjoyed this book. I am glad he figures out a way to make everything work. I am glad he finally calls Lex out on her ridiculous anger toward him and the way she treats him. I am glad he got his happy ending.
This review was originally posted to Jen in Bookland
Cruiser, Rey, and Lex have always been best friends. Lex has always been closer to Cruiser, but then there was an accident involving Lex's sister that leaves the sister in a wheelchair and Lex blames Cruiser. Since Lex shut him out, and he is the "bad" son, he goes away for a bit. When he comes back Lex and Rey are an item, and Cruiser tries not to do anything to break them up. Cruiser has always been the one to take the blame for everything, helping his twin, Rey, not get in trouble. Rey is the perfect son, the one who does everything right. Cruiser thinks Rey and Lex are in love, so he tries to stay out of it even though it kills him to see them together.
Lex is ridiculous when it comes to Cruiser. When you find out what really happened the night of the accident it is just like wait what? Lex blames Cruiser so I just assumed he was driving the car that hit Rosie, Lex's sister. Nope. It was just....Lex cannot handle that she is to blame as well so she just lashes out at Cruiser for no reason. When she sees Cruiser in her house talking with Rosie she loses it! She is so nasty to him, so hurtful, so ridiculous I didn't get it. She just....at the same time she still has feelings for him. It was just not written in a way that I enjoyed, it just made me annoyed with Lex.
Lex also doesn't seem to be really happy with Rey. Sure she loves him, he was there for her after the accident and after Cruiser left, but there is not the passion and desire like there is for Cruiser. Once Cruiser comes back Lex realizes that things with Rey really aren't working. Does she do something about this? Well not really, other than blame herself for him not wanting to hang out, or make out, or spend time with her. She should be more supportive of all of his activities and things he does instead of spending time with her. I just...obviously she wasn't in love with him, and he wasn't in love with her. They didn't work like that, and Rey didn't really make an effort to be there for Lex so it was just like when is this going to be over already? Obviously she likes Cruiser, obviously Rey knows this, but he wants to keep her because Cruiser wants her. It was just...
I didn't like Rey much in this book either. He is supposed to be the perfect son, but he just lets Cruiser take the blame for things he does. He is so weak and cowardly it was just a put off. Cruiser on the other hand I really enjoyed. I wanted him to be happy and get what he wanted. I wanted him to have everything, especially since he had a terrible home life. His parents were never there for him, he had Lex but then she blames him for something that isn't his fault and pulls away, so the only one he has left is Rey, who just is not that great of a brother to him. Cruiser seemed like a great guy. Sure, everything didn't come as easily to him as it did to Rey, but he wasn't stupid. He had different desires and needs and his parents just wanted him to be a second Rey, which doesn't work. Without liking Cruiser as much as I did I would not have enjoyed this book. I am glad he figures out a way to make everything work. I am glad he finally calls Lex out on her ridiculous anger toward him and the way she treats him. I am glad he got his happy ending.
This review was originally posted to Jen in Bookland
May 11, 2015
Cruiser was what I would consider a young adult book. It was a pretty good read and was everything you'd expect from a young adult novel. It kept me interested and invested up thoughout the book. Cruiser is about two twin boys and the girl next door Lex. Reagan is the great and wonderful twin who can do no wrong leaving Cruiser (Elvis) to be the dissapointment. Lex, their childhood friend and girl next door has always seen the best in Cruiser. Always their to support him and eventually fall for him. But, a major catastrophe happens causing her to run from Cruiser into the arms of his brother. This book is well written and has an interesting storyline that keeps you reading easily. I wish it had a little more smut and teenage filled angst to give it a four star, but all in all it was a good read.
January 1, 2015
Oof. I feel awful giving a 1-star review, and I almost never do it. But reading this made me appreciate how difficult it is to write a convincing romance.
The story mostly just ended up feeling really contrived, because the romance was a bit too central. Even a book that's shelved as romance usually has some side elements in the plot, and this one really didn't. The writing and dialogue was at times really stilted and awkward. I ended up skimming most of the book, and never really caring too much what happened.
The story mostly just ended up feeling really contrived, because the romance was a bit too central. Even a book that's shelved as romance usually has some side elements in the plot, and this one really didn't. The writing and dialogue was at times really stilted and awkward. I ended up skimming most of the book, and never really caring too much what happened.
August 15, 2013
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. So here goes: I did not like this book. The chapters were too short and it just didn't seem releastic to me. I also felt like Lex and Cruiser had too many wishy washy emotions. That being said it was very well written and to the point. The summary sounded too great too pass up, but it just wasn't a book for me. Maybe one day I'll be able to pick it up again and give it a better review.
July 23, 2013
Too kiddish for me but it was alright I suppose. I think the teens in the novel were way too young to connect to.
October 17, 2013
I loved this book! The story and writing style were addictive and flowed easily. My chest was in knots for the main characters and their situation. A great romance overall <3
July 22, 2014
Is a great book to read
February 1, 2014
Sweet book for a freebie!!
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews