Hopeless For You

by Hayden Hill

"If I am more alive because love burns and chars me, as a fire, given wood or wind, feels new elation, it's that he who lays me low is my salvation, and invigorates the more, the more he scars me."
― Michelangelo

Ash Jensen, a squeaky-clean sophomore at the University of Tennessee, has a trail of baggage a mile long―she buried her fiancé only a year and a half ago. She swore she'd never love again but when she finds herself interned to a yummy Canadian conservation officer that promise is tested big-time. Kade Gyllenhahl sports wild tattoos, a rebellious attitude and a fohawk to die for. He's definitely the wrong man for her and she knows it.

Kade doesn't have time for a girl like her. She's a pretentious, unreadable princess who lives her life by her parents' rules. Kade knows nothing about her past and he'd prefer to keep it that way. Besides, he'll lose his job if he sleeps with Ash. Now if only he could get his mind off her.

When the two of them end up alone and isolated on a routine field trip in the woods, things get a little complicated...

One man afraid of commitment.
One woman afraid to love again.
Two lives.
Two hearts.
One life-changing journey.

Full length (74,000 word) New Adult Contemporary Romance.

Genres: New Adult, Romance, Contemporary, Contemporary Romance, College

215 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 19, 2013

About the author

Hayden Hill puts the MAN in roMANce. If you like hot, trouble bad boys, you've found your author!

Hayden lives in Canada, usually, and writes romance novels because they make the world a better place.

So there.

♥ y'all!

Reviews

[Glass · Rating 3 out of 5]

Review from Way Too Hot Books

Hopeless For You by Hayden Hill is perfect book for fans of sweet romance stories with just enough steam and hotness. All of you who love when fate intervenes into the life of your heroes will be in heaven.

Pro list. Considering that this year was probably golden phase of New Adult novels, we pretty much saw every possible plot. Even before we start reading new book, we usually have a good idea what to expect. You know that love is central motif (so far I still haven't found non-love NA). Hopeless For You is a love story - Kade is a bad boy with long line of broken hears behind and Ash is a good girl who finally decided to take control over her life. Both of them have their problems that have to be overcome and, how surprising, that could be only done if they are together. As I said sweet and predictable, but we do not expect anything else from this genre. What was different is setting - everything happens in wilderness of Canada and not in dark clubs or apartments. You have this whole "green peace", "save the nature" message which I found refreshing.

Con list. One thing I can not stand are instant love scenarios. From time to time I find book with this story that get my attention, but mostly I'm not their biggest fan. The way Kade and Ash fell in love was unbelievable and the whole thing with them feeling like fate brought them together was annoying as hall. There were a few lose ends of plot and I found secondary characters more intriguing.

Canadian version of truth or dare. Oh, my... that part of the story is my favorite. You have this few extra tasks that make the whole thing more spicier. I have to try it soon.

[TeriLyn · Rating 3 out of 5]

**ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review**

Hopeless for You is the sweet survival story of Kade and Ash. I enjoyed reading this and found the plot uniquely entertaining. The writing is simplistic and flows easily. It's an easy book to sit down and have read in a few hours. Kade and Ash are both scarred from previous, ill-fated relationships and could not be any more different from one another. However, instant attraction ensues and the two are paired together for the conservatory their working for in Canada. I did not feel a real connection to these characters. I wish there would have more dialogue between the two. And definitely more flirting and banter. It was like they went from zero to sixty in an hour. They are young and the "love at first sight" thing Kade has goin on, I found odd for some reason, like it completely went against his personality. However, I did like the theme of survival weaved throughout the book. Kade and Ash both are surviving both figuratively and literally. And the setting of their story is quite unique as well. When finally start opening up to one another and their vulnerability shows, the story picked up more for me. The secondary characters prove to be really intriguing as well. I woud like to know more about Blaine and Gina. Overall, Hopeless for Love is an enjoyable read and I would recommend it to anybody who's a fan a milder New Adult story.

[Ragatnia Clara · Rating 3 out of 5]

ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review

With Kade, I was home

Where should I start first?

Asha Jensen, or call her Ash, a premed student from Tennessee who gets internship in Canada with her best friend, Gina. She lost her fiance when she's nineteen years old. Since then, she never opens heart for new love. She's just like a dead walker, live but not alive. Then she meets Kade Gyllenhahl, a tattoo bad boy worker in the same office where Ash interns. It was love at the first photograph for Kade. Ash's eyes captive Kade in the gut. And when they meet...it's where it begins.

I was engaged from the first chapter. It attracted me and made me wonder how they both would end up together. But somehow, the story line went so slow it bored me a while. I could feel the chemistry between Ash and Kade. I liked the characters. I liked the happy ending! Because it's debut, I believe the author will make it better for her next upcoming book. Overall, it's a nice read.

[BookHookup · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was originally reviewed on The Book Hookup.

**We received a copy of this book, but that did not influence the review**

First Thoughts:
Celeste: 4 stars Oh, I loved Kade and Ash, what a great couple with fantastic chemistry. I’m always a sucker for the the tattooed manwhore bad boy who falls for the soft pretty girl. Every. Single. Time.
Ana: 3.5 stars. I enjoyed Kade and Ash’s story. And, of course, fell quite easily for the sexy and hot Kade right away…after all, he’s tatooed, he’s a bad boy and he’s Canadian. Really doesn’t get better than that! :)

Plot, Setting, Pacing and Style:
Celeste: Kade and Ash both felt like they didn’t fit in anywhere, but both found that studying the falcons out in the wilderness of British Columbia gave them both the peace they had been searching for. On top of that, neither one expected to find the deep attraction they had for one another. However, mother nature didn’t make the first instances of their relationship easy. From overflowing raging rivers to mudslides to wolves…they were up against a lot. However, I really loved the setting. I could feel the bitter and icy cold from the river and how damp their clothes were and how it chilled them to the bones. I read a ton of New Adult, so this was different and refreshing…no bar scenes, no college classes. The pacing was good, but a little quick. I’m not sure if the book should have been a little longer, or made into 2 books. What can I say? I love to draw things out and torture myself. This was told in alternating POVs by Kade and Ash.
Ana: The plot felt both comfortingly familiar – boy meets girl and falls in love – as well as very different from other books of it’s type. The setting was great and, of course, I loved that it took place in Canada. I thought the writing was very smooth and the pacing was good. This is the type of book that has just enough description to make you happy but not so much as to slow it down.

The MCs:
Celeste: Both Kade and Ash are the reasons I loved the story so very much. While they both had reasons for being a bit gun shy of a relationship, once they admitted to themselves it could work, they were both pretty open about it. I loved that they didn’t play games, especially when Kade tells Ash she is gorgeous almost from the beginning. One of the coolest parts about Ash was that she fought so hard to get Kade back to the base. She never gave up and did things that I’m sure were physically draining as she just couldn’t have been that strong. I admired her quite a bit.
Ana: I enjoyed both of these characters. Ash was a strong woman and, even though she might not have always believed it herself, she demonstrated it in her actions with Kade and, later in the book, with her parents. Kade was just the right mix of bad boy and caring guy. I loved the fact that he seemed pretty self-aware for the most part. He knew exactly what drove him to do things and seemed to understand his own needs and wants. To me, that made him a strong character as well. Because of this, both these characters could move beyond their pasts.

Romance /Chemistry:
Celeste: So this is where I both loved and cringed a bit. I should start by saying I was totally sold on Kade and Ash’s chemistry…it totally worked. Totally. The attraction was immediate and the pull towards each other was beyond magnetic, and frankly totally hot. However, Kade felt like he thought Ash’s eyes were haunting from one photo and soon fell in love….that was just a little too much. The same goes for the declarations of love. I wish they had said something along the lines of “I think you’re the girl I might end up falling in love with and marrying one day.” Now that would have been totally believeable. Even when he was out of it from the pain and the meds, that would have been better than what he said. I mean come on, it was 3 days of knowing each other! Then for Ash to return the “I love you” just as fast was ridicuous. Now, I truly still think their feelings were intense, it was just immature of them to make the declarations so early on.
Ana: The chemistry was great, there’s no doubt that their attraction was hot. But I have to agree with Celeste that this is where the story fell down a bit for me. I’m not a big fan of insta-love and this felt even faster than the typical insta-love to me. Kade’s “love at first look” was more than I wanted to see. I really wanted them to be more cautious and needed a bit more angst. I never doubted for a moment that their passion would overwhelm them or that they belonged together, I just would have liked to bask in possibilities a while longer.

Title/Cover:
Celeste: The title is great. I think it really shows that no matter what both Kade and Ash could never get over the other one. They really were hopelessly in love. The cover is pretty awesome too, in the rain, the hot steamy kiss…let’s be real…it’s what sold me in the first place. Yes, Kade kind of looks like he is wincing and there’s a reason for it!
Ana: The title makes perfect sense, two souls who collide with uncontrolable passion. I may have been the one to mention the wince when we first saw the cover but now I get it…I really do! Perfect cover.

Ending:
Celeste: I love happy endings and this was great. I was actually happy with Ash’s response to Kade, as it felt more real than her agreeing to all of it. (Secretive much? Yes, I don’t want to spoil!) I guess once they admitted their feelings and calmed down a bit the relationship took on a more mature and normal course.
Ana: I agree with Celeste. The ending was perfect and Ash’s decision was exactly what I could hope for. Both characters seemed to have matured as the book progressed and I have no doubt their passion lives on.

Gripes/suggestions:
Celeste: Eek, I have a few. Now, this story was really, really good, but my 2 cents here are what could have driven the book from a 4 star to a 5 star rating. The first major gripe was what I had mentioned above: the declarations of love when the two of them had hardly known each other. The feelings were real and intense, but putting labels on them so quickly was too much.

When they were playing truth or dare…the info that was extracted was also too much. While maybe it’s kind of sexy to find out each others personal grooming habits, there was no need for it. It felt like there was sexy info thrown in to make the book racier, but honestly it was fine without it. The sexual chemistry was there. The kiss on the forehead was perfect though~I loved that part.

The sex was hot, but some parts of that scene were almost described in a clinical way. I don’t need to see some words in a book I read ever. And I mean ever. The sex was hot enough without them. I knew it was hot and crazy and that almost made it feel forced and not natural, like the author was trying too hard. Sometimes less is more.
Ana: Ummm….ya, what she said. I think Celeste covered everything that I thought as I read the book. I feel silly restating them so just feel free to read her suggestions/gripes again! :)

Final Thoughts/Rec It?
Celeste: Absolutely. I loved this story, especially the romance. It was written in a way that sucked me in and had me rooting for these two from the first chapter.
Ana: Yes. This was a good read I loved the characters and I have no doubt that I’d like to read more about them and their adventures…or maybe their friends, Gina and Blaine, who I think would make a great second book (hint, hint, nudge, nudge)!!

[Kassiah · Rating 2 out of 5]

1-1/2 stars.

This review also appears on Steamy Guys After Dark.

I love New Adult, and watching characters make decisions that guide them from childhood to adults is one of my favorite parts about the genre. Hopeless for You had the potential to display that transition for both of the main characters. Unfortunately, it fell flat and left us with a watered down storyline and characters whose actions made little sense.

A week after proposing, college sophomore Ash Jensen's high-school sweetheart was killed in an accident, leaving her devastated and unable to even think of being with anyone else. Despite her parents' insistence that she be pre-med, she really wants to be a veterinarian and drags her friend to British Columbia, Canada to intern and study falcons. While there, she meets bad-boy loner conservationist Kade Gyllenhahl, who seems to be the total opposite of who Ash would ever go for.

Sparks immediately fly and there's definitely flirting going on, but a strict no-fraternization policy, along with both of them being afraid to take a chance, keep things at bay--until Ash and Kade end up alone for days after trekking through the forest to tend to some falcon habitats. Things happen.

...I wanted to reach out and hold her in my arms.

I could lose myself in those eyes.

I could lose myself in her.

It felt like I'd known her all my life. That I'd been waiting all these years to be united with the girl I was meant to be with since I was born.

When they get back to civilization, there's more hot and cold and then...the story ends. Pretty abruptly and with no clear idea of what's really going to happen or any of the loose ends tied up.

I liked parts of this book. The scenery was beautiful and Hill's descriptions made me feel like I was right there with them. The parts that I didn't like, however, far outweighed what I did like. Both Ash and Kade flip-flopped on the way they were feeling so fast and frequently, I thought I'd get whiplash. One moment they love each other, the next moment they have to stay away, one moment they're no good for each other, the next moment they want to get married. It was so much, even they noticed it.

"I don't get it. One second you're giving me a look like you'll eat me up and the next you're cold as ice. What is it with you?"

There are some words that I could have done without reading, like areola, vajayjay, moist slit, and labia. I hated her friend, Gina, and thought that her reactions were unrealistic, too. There were just so many things that didn't add up. This is without a doubt that would have benefited from having a professional editor. This book mentions having one, Bev Rosenbaum, and I hope for the sake of any writers that hire her that her advice was not followed, rather than non-existent. Authors, please get an editor who will actually edit your work!

The part that I hated the worst was by far the lemon. I don't want to spoil all the things, but Kade's knee was dislocated. Now, I've dislocated my knee twice and all I have to say is Kade is a better man than I am. LOL Add to that the fact that even though condoms were mentioned, they were only addressed as protection from pregnancy. Ash was concerned about Kade being a man-whore the entire book, and suddenly, they're not worried about that. There were some medical things that didn't make sense to me, like the fact that Ash knew how to make and effectively use a splint but didn't know that you're not supposed to let someone with a concussion go to sleep.

Like I said, the idea for this story was good, and there was definitely emotion with these characters. The errors and lack of clear direction just messed it up for me. To be fair, I think have an advance copy, so some of them may have been fixed, but it would have to be a lot of editing for me to recommend this book to you.

[Rebecca · Rating 4 out of 5]

'She was always there, no matter if I was awake or asleep, the idea of her lingering in the back of my mind. The way her cheeks dimpled when she smiled. The curve of her body. Her mysterious eyes. Her secrets.'

Plot

Ash Jensen is a Sophomore at the University of Tennessee. A year and a half ago, Ash buried her fiancé, and she swore she'd never love again. After her friend Gina persuades her to take an internship at a conservation site, Ash's promise to herself is tested when she meets Kade Gyllenhal, a yummy conservation officer. Ash knows he's the wrong man for her, with his wild tattoos and his playboy reputation.

Kade has his opinions on Ash before he meets her; he thinks she's a spoiled and pretentious princess from a wealthy family. Kade knows nothing about Ash's past and wants to keep it that way, but despite the risk of losing his job, he can't stop thinking about her.

When the two of them are isolated on a routine trip into the woods, both of them are tested as things start to get complicated.

My thoughts

I saw this book on NetGalley and thought it sounded interesting as I've never read a romance book with this sort of theme before. I was lucky enough to be accepted when I requested to read it, and got started within a few days. Although there are some problems with this book, such as formatting errors, I can definitely say that I enjoyed the story.

I've read a lot of Romance books but this one was different. I've never read a romance book which is set mostly in the woods before so this was an interesting one. The situation that the characters were in added an element of danger to the story, making it exciting and not all about the romance. There's also not tons of sex scenes in the book which does make a nice change. The romance aspect does move slowly, but I feel that this was important to the story as the characters are thrown into a dangerous situation and focusing on surviving is the most important thing.

It's great to see from both character's points of view in this story. Both of them have secrets that they keep from each other and seeing into each of their thoughts adds depth and character to them. There are still parts of the characters that are kept from us until the end, so there's also a lot of surprises, despite getting to know them throughout the story.

Overall, I really enjoyed this story. It had everything it needed to make it interesting and keep me coming back for more; mystery,suspense,danger and of course, romance. I'd recommend this to anyone looking for a new and exciting romance novel.

[Louise Seraphim Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

**I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review**

I was actually surprised by just how much i enjoyed this book. Not that i expected it to be a bad read, but just by how totally gripped i was by the storyline. The background to this romantic New Adult book was fantastic. The detail that went in to some of the parts was amazing. I was actually sat thinking, "Oh my goodness, if that was me in that situation I wouldn't know to do that!" It was just so intense and so well thought out, i was hooked by the storyline. The romance behind everything was also very intense and full of chemistry. The lead characters, Kade and Ash had some nasty baggage and a fair share of sadness that made them both incredibly vulnerable to each other but they were also perfect for each other. It made for some intense moments. The ending was perfect and just what i needed for a quick read!

[Shane · Rating 4 out of 5]

I don't know where to start. Hopeless For You had me on a world wind journey of two people not exactly trying to find themselves but ended up doing so regardless, experiencing a deep connection along the way.

Once the story opened up it painted a clear picture of the kind of life Kade was living. Beware, this book is not for the modest. Kade's behavior was nothing new, in fact, Hayden presented realistically well the attitude of a guy who was definitely using the carefree lifestyle as a protective wall. Then we meet Ash, who was doing the same thing in her way. Ash had been clinging on to guilt ever since losing someone dear to her. Both characters had a lot of emotional baggage; their pasts have left a mark on their lives so much that it kept them from finding happiness. And I liked how coming in contact with each other really brought out that vulnerable side and got them to open up once more.

Of course, the first encounter wasn't great but you'll understand why as their feelings pour out in the pages. And I liked that there's progression as well as stubbornness. Eventually, what began as a case of two people with undeniable intensity between them yet trying hard to dismiss the tension, are suddenly careened into a situation where they must depend on each other to survive. I must admit though, did not see nor expect that part coming but it was an interesting aspect nonetheless.

Aside from all that happened during their isolation and period of survival, I was looking forward to a new start from both characters. Whether it was Ash finally taking control of her lifelong dream and going after it, as well as Kade dropping the tough guy act and finally being honest with himself. Never imagined it would morph into something so difficult for both.

Hopeless For You had a great setting. I envisioned every scene as well as everything and everyone mentioned. When it rained in the chapters I could smell it in the air. That's how much I was entrapped in the story. It's also pretty fast paced and witty. Hayden Hill brought to a life a tale of what seemed like endless hurting to a future filled with joy. If you love new adult and anything romantic with a bit of adventure and side humor, this book is for you.

[twobrokegirls · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ash has been with the love of her life for 3 years Devon. He proposes to her At Christmas and of course she says yes, she loves him. Her whole life is centered around him but tragedy strikes them on New Years when Devon is hit by a drunk driver. After Ash becomes a shell of a person. She doesn't date, she has sat up blocks around her heart, she is in college pursuing a carter that she hates. When her friend signs her up for a internship in British Columbia she accepts although it has nothing to do with the pre med program she is in. She just is trying to escape.

Kade loves the wilderness, loves his summer job but when he is back in the city he is miserable. He drinks, smokes and sleeps with random women. He also has formed a barricade to his heart because of his ex who he got pregnant but she left him and married someone else never giving Kade a chance at love or being a father to his son.

Now the summer is beginning and Kade and Ash find one another drawn to each other. But Kade is being a real jerk at times. He's hot and cold and it pisses Ash off. But there is something about him and she wants to know more of him. Ash is killing Kade because he wants her but he is terrified of having his heart ripped out again.

During their journey the two open up and start to surrender to the attraction they share. They slowly let down their walls and build a trust in one another. They let to of their secrets and fall in love.

This was a really sweet story that I enjoyed. Two lost and sad souls who find themselves and heal each other. Even though Ash thought Devon was her one true love she was wrong. She would always love Devon but Kade had awaken her and given her hope. Kade let go of his fear and realized he sometimes needed to lean on others and that he too could love again.

[Cassandra Javier · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Love makes the impossible Possible."

Hopeless for you is the story of love between two broken people--Kade, who on the outside looks every bit the player and the bad guy, and Ash, who has that sad, sad look in her eyes that caught Kade's attention at first sight.

At first, they tried to avoid their intense attraction to each other until something happened that changed their lives for good. And, they also got to know more about each other and about who they really are. Their scars and the pains of their past come to the surface and it's up to them to decide whether to get stuck in the past or give love another chance.

I like how simple and easy to read this book is. Like a diamond in the rough, there are some stuff that has to be polished but otherwise, it's a good book with a lovely story and definitely very sexy scenes!

Another good thing I like about this book is the fact that there are some really funny, adorkable scenes! Such as Ash's worries about being unshaved (lol, sorry, spoiler), and all that stuff and I guess, that's what makes this book so realistic and nice to spend time on. There's also the fact that even the supporting characters like Gina and Blaine are given their turn in the spotlight--this makes the book more engaging and not boring.


And, the ending. Oh my god. I love how realistic that it and how it coincided with the story. Awesome, awesome ending.

So, yes, if you're into romance and books like this are your guilty pleasure, then by all means, read this one! You won't regret it.

[Erotica Book Club · Rating 3 out of 5]

**** EROTICA BOOK CLUB REVIEW ****

Hopeless For You
by Hayden Hill

When Ash Jensen's fiancé died in a car accident 18 months ago she has never got over the guilt of it, Kade Gyllenhahl also comes with baggage and guilt and when he sees Ash he is attracted to her but he doesn't do relationships. They come together when Ash's best friend convinces her to do an internship in British Columbia for the summer and when on a field trip Ash and Kade get stranded together.

I got into this book straight away and the more I read the more I got into it but it just didn't blow me away. I liked Kade but didn't at the same time I just think I expected him to be a proper bad boy so he was a little disappointing, He was just a little sappy for my liking and a little frustrating at times too but I do understand what the author was trying to do with his character.
I enjoyed the other characters too they were quite interesting but I just didn't feel the chemistry with this book. Don't get me wrong its not bad but an okay read.


I received a copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

3.5 stars for Amazon & 3.5 stars for Goodreads

~Jane~

[Flavs is Mrs David Gandy♥~♥’ · Rating 4 out of 5]

**I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review**

This book was for me so sad!
Ash just had tears in my eyes right through the book! What she went through must have been so painful and how do you cope with that.
How do you learn to move on, learn to love.

I guess that is where Kade comes in. He was just as vulnerable, had just as much issues as her.
Both of them has some baggage that they needed to deal with and I guess getting stranded in the middle of nowhere would help you deal with it.

If something like that happened to me, I have no idea how I would cope with or how do you get out of it.

Blaine and Gina what awesome friends, hopefully they will get their own story.

A nice Romantic book to read, definitely on my top lists of Romance for 2014.

Thank you for the copy!

[Alwaysreadingbooks - Reading Drinking and Relaxing · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book from the author for my honest review

This was a story of a bad boy with a past that falls for a good girl with a past. Sounds like the typical book but it's not. It was love at first sight but Kade was a major a**hole through the whole book to Ash. Than out of the blue something happens that makes him decide to actually admit how he feels and than the next thing you know he is an a**hole all over again. The thing I loved about this story is although they both experienced something bad in their lives and they both gave up on love it was still there and they found it in each other when they least expected it.

[Karen Goosie · Rating 5 out of 5]

this book was amazing!!! Ash is one tough girl except when it comes to her parents. she holds on to an ex but she soon realizes she has to move on. kade is a bad boy but when he looks at a picture of Ash he falls hard and hasn't even met her yet but when he does he tries to stay away and is rude to her. well due to unfortunate circumstances they have time to themselves and are able to talk and bond. just read the book. its a must read. picked this on a whim and was not disappointed. loom forward to more from hayden hill.

[Sofia The Great · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book just wasn't for me. I'm a huge fan of new adult books but I never really liked instant love between characters. That's exactly what happen in this book, the main guy Kade, felt an instant connection with Ash, the girl in this book, after just looking at her picture. I think I should have stopped reading then but I continued because it was such a short book. I just thought the romance was rushed and not believable at all.

I got this book from Netgalley for an honest review.

[Robin H · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars!!

It's cute and sweet. Not your typical NA romance. I feel the characters make a few more realistic decisions than what we normally see in this genre. It's a quick read for those who are pressed for time.

[Malisa - J&M's Book Diaries · Rating 5 out of 5]

Completely in love with this story.... Check out www.jmbookdiaries.com for my review.

[Heeta · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm Canadian and I even I didn't know there was a Canadian version of truth or dare, man I need to get out more.

[Celeste · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was originally reviewed on The Book Hookup.

**We received a copy of this book, but that did not influence the review**

First Thoughts:
Celeste: 4 stars Oh, I loved Kade and Ash, what a great couple with fantastic chemistry. I’m always a sucker for the the tattooed manwhore bad boy who falls for the soft pretty girl. Every. Single. Time.
Ana: 3.5 stars. I enjoyed Kade and Ash’s story. And, of course, fell quite easily for the sexy and hot Kade right away…after all, he’s tatooed, he’s a bad boy and he’s Canadian. Really doesn’t get better than that! :)

Plot, Setting, Pacing and Style:
Celeste: Kade and Ash both felt like they didn’t fit in anywhere, but both found that studying the falcons out in the wilderness of British Columbia gave them both the peace they had been searching for. On top of that, neither one expected to find the deep attraction they had for one another. However, mother nature didn’t make the first instances of their relationship easy. From overflowing raging rivers to mudslides to wolves…they were up against a lot. However, I really loved the setting. I could feel the bitter and icy cold from the river and how damp their clothes were and how it chilled them to the bones. I read a ton of New Adult, so this was different and refreshing…no bar scenes, no college classes. The pacing was good, but a little quick. I’m not sure if the book should have been a little longer, or made into 2 books. What can I say? I love to draw things out and torture myself. This was told in alternating POVs by Kade and Ash.
Ana: The plot felt both comfortingly familiar – boy meets girl and falls in love – as well as very different from other books of it’s type. The setting was great and, of course, I loved that it took place in Canada. I thought the writing was very smooth and the pacing was good. This is the type of book that has just enough description to make you happy but not so much as to slow it down.

The MCs:
Celeste: Both Kade and Ash are the reasons I loved the story so very much. While they both had reasons for being a bit gun shy of a relationship, once they admitted to themselves it could work, they were both pretty open about it. I loved that they didn’t play games, especially when Kade tells Ash she is gorgeous almost from the beginning. One of the coolest parts about Ash was that she fought so hard to get Kade back to the base. She never gave up and did things that I’m sure were physically draining as she just couldn’t have been that strong. I admired her quite a bit.
Ana: I enjoyed both of these characters. Ash was a strong woman and, even though she might not have always believed it herself, she demonstrated it in her actions with Kade and, later in the book, with her parents. Kade was just the right mix of bad boy and caring guy. I loved the fact that he seemed pretty self-aware for the most part. He knew exactly what drove him to do things and seemed to understand his own needs and wants. To me, that made him a strong character as well. Because of this, both these characters could move beyond their pasts.

Romance /Chemistry:
Celeste: So this is where I both loved and cringed a bit. I should start by saying I was totally sold on Kade and Ash’s chemistry…it totally worked. Totally. The attraction was immediate and the pull towards each other was beyond magnetic, and frankly totally hot. However, Kade felt like he thought Ash’s eyes were haunting from one photo and soon fell in love….that was just a little too much. The same goes for the declarations of love. I wish they had said something along the lines of “I think you’re the girl I might end up falling in love with and marrying one day.” Now that would have been totally believeable. Even when he was out of it from the pain and the meds, that would have been better than what he said. I mean come on, it was 3 days of knowing each other! Then for Ash to return the “I love you” just as fast was ridicuous. Now, I truly still think their feelings were intense, it was just immature of them to make the declarations so early on.
Ana: The chemistry was great, there’s no doubt that their attraction was hot. But I have to agree with Celeste that this is where the story fell down a bit for me. I’m not a big fan of insta-love and this felt even faster than the typical insta-love to me. Kade’s “love at first look” was more than I wanted to see. I really wanted them to be more cautious and needed a bit more angst. I never doubted for a moment that their passion would overwhelm them or that they belonged together, I just would have liked to bask in possibilities a while longer.

Title/Cover:
Celeste: The title is great. I think it really shows that no matter what both Kade and Ash could never get over the other one. They really were hopelessly in love. The cover is pretty awesome too, in the rain, the hot steamy kiss…let’s be real…it’s what sold me in the first place. Yes, Kade kind of looks like he is wincing and there’s a reason for it!
Ana: The title makes perfect sense, two souls who collide with uncontrolable passion. I may have been the one to mention the wince when we first saw the cover but now I get it…I really do! Perfect cover.

Ending:
Celeste: I love happy endings and this was great. I was actually happy with Ash’s response to Kade, as it felt more real than her agreeing to all of it. (Secretive much? Yes, I don’t want to spoil!) I guess once they admitted their feelings and calmed down a bit the relationship took on a more mature and normal course.
Ana: I agree with Celeste. The ending was perfect and Ash’s decision was exactly what I could hope for. Both characters seemed to have matured as the book progressed and I have no doubt their passion lives on.

Gripes/suggestions:
Celeste: Eek, I have a few. Now, this story was really, really good, but my 2 cents here are what could have driven the book from a 4 star to a 5 star rating. The first major gripe was what I had mentioned above: the declarations of love when the two of them had hardly known each other. The feelings were real and intense, but putting labels on them so quickly was too much.

When they were playing truth or dare…the info that was extracted was also too much. While maybe it’s kind of sexy to find out each others personal grooming habits, there was no need for it. It felt like there was sexy info thrown in to make the book racier, but honestly it was fine without it. The sexual chemistry was there. The kiss on the forehead was perfect though~I loved that part.

The sex was hot, but some parts of that scene were almost described in a clinical way. I don’t need to see some words in a book I read ever. And I mean ever. The sex was hot enough without them. I knew it was hot and crazy and that almost made it feel forced and not natural, like the author was trying too hard. Sometimes less is more.
Ana: Ummm….ya, what she said. I think Celeste covered everything that I thought as I read the book. I feel silly restating them so just feel free to read her suggestions/gripes again! :)

Final Thoughts/Rec It?
Celeste: Absolutely. I loved this story, especially the romance. It was written in a way that sucked me in and had me rooting for these two from the first chapter.
Ana: Yes. This was a good read I loved the characters and I have no doubt that I’d like to read more about them and their adventures…or maybe their friends, Gina and Blaine, who I think would make a great second book (hint, hint, nudge, nudge)!!

[Ana · Rating 4 out of 5]

The review was done in conjunction with Celeste at The Book Hookup!

First Thoughts:
Celeste: 4 stars Oh, I loved Kade and Ash, what a great couple with fantastic chemistry. I’m always a sucker for the the tattooed manwhore bad boy who falls for the soft pretty girl. Every. Single. Time.
Ana: 3.5 stars. I enjoyed Kade and Ash’s story. And, of course, fell quite easily for the sexy and hot Kade right away…after all, he’s tatooed, he’s a bad boy and he’s Canadian. Really doesn’t get better than that! :)

Plot, Setting, Pacing and Style:
Celeste: Kade and Ash both felt like they didn’t fit in anywhere, but both found that studying the falcons out in the wilderness of British Columbia gave them both the peace they had been searching for. On top of that, neither one expected to find the deep attraction they had for one another. However, mother nature didn’t make the first instances of their relationship easy. From overflowing raging rivers to mudslides to wolves…they were up against a lot. However, I really loved the setting. I could feel the bitter and icy cold from the river and how damp their clothes were and how it chilled them to the bones. I read a ton of New Adult, so this was different and refreshing…no bar scenes, no college classes. The pacing was good, but a little quick. I’m not sure if the book should have been a little longer, or made into 2 books. What can I say? I love to draw things out and torture myself. This was told in alternating POVs by Kade and Ash.
Ana: The plot felt both comfortingly familiar – boy meets girl and falls in love – as well as very different from other books of it’s type. The setting was great and, of course, I loved that it took place in Canada. I thought the writing was very smooth and the pacing was good. This is the type of book that has just enough description to make you happy but not so much as to slow it down.

The MCs:
Celeste: Both Kade and Ash are the reasons I loved the story so very much. While they both had reasons for being a bit gun shy of a relationship, once they admitted to themselves it could work, they were both pretty open about it. I loved that they didn’t play games, especially when Kade tells Ash she is gorgeous almost from the beginning. One of the coolest parts about Ash was that she fought so hard to get Kade back to the base. She never gave up and did things that I’m sure were physically draining as she just couldn’t have been that strong. I admired her quite a bit.
Ana: I enjoyed both of these characters. Ash was a strong woman and, even though she might not have always believed it herself, she demonstrated it in her actions with Kade and, later in the book, with her parents. Kade was just the right mix of bad boy and caring guy. I loved the fact that he seemed pretty self-aware for the most part. He knew exactly what drove him to do things and seemed to understand his own needs and wants. To me, that made him a strong character as well. Because of this, both these characters could move beyond their pasts.

Romance /Chemistry:
Celeste: So this is where I both loved and cringed a bit. I should start by saying I was totally sold on Kade and Ash’s chemistry…it totally worked. Totally. The attraction was immediate and the pull towards each other was beyond magnetic, and frankly totally hot. However, Kade felt like he thought Ash’s eyes were haunting from one photo and soon fell in love….that was just a little too much. The same goes for the declarations of love. I wish they had said something along the lines of “I think you’re the girl I might end up falling in love with and marrying one day.” Now that would have been totally believeable. Even when he was out of it from the pain and the meds, that would have been better than what he said. I mean come on, it was 3 days of knowing each other! Then for Ash to return the “I love you” just as fast was ridicuous. Now, I truly still think their feelings were intense, it was just immature of them to make the declarations so early on.
Ana: The chemistry was great, there’s no doubt that their attraction was hot. But I have to agree with Celeste that this is where the story fell down a bit for me. I’m not a big fan of insta-love and this felt even faster than the typical insta-love to me. Kade’s “love at first look” was more than I wanted to see. I really wanted them to be more cautious and needed a bit more angst. I never doubted for a moment that their passion would overwhelm them or that they belonged together, I just would have liked to bask in possibilities a while longer.

Title/Cover:
Celeste: The title is great. I think it really shows that no matter what both Kade and Ash could never get over the other one. They really were hopelessly in love. The cover is pretty awesome too, in the rain, the hot steamy kiss…let’s be real…it’s what sold me in the first place. Yes, Kade kind of looks like he is wincing and there’s a reason for it!
Ana: The title makes perfect sense, two souls who collide with uncontrolable passion. I may have been the one to mention the wince when we first saw the cover but now I get it…I really do! Perfect cover.

Ending:
Celeste: I love happy endings and this was great. I was actually happy with Ash’s response to Kade, as it felt more real than her agreeing to all of it. (Secretive much? Yes, I don’t want to spoil!) I guess once they admitted their feelings and calmed down a bit the relationship took on a more mature and normal course.
Ana: I agree with Celeste. The ending was perfect and Ash’s decision was exactly what I could hope for. Both characters seemed to have matured as the book progressed and I have no doubt their passion lives on.

Gripes/suggestions:
Celeste: Eek, I have a few. Now, this story was really, really good, but my 2 cents here are what could have driven the book from a 4 star to a 5 star rating. The first major gripe was what I had mentioned above: the declarations of love when the two of them had hardly known each other. The feelings were real and intense, but putting labels on them so quickly was too much.

When they were playing truth or dare…the info that was extracted was also too much. While maybe it’s kind of sexy to find out each others personal grooming habits, there was no need for it. It felt like there was sexy info thrown in to make the book racier, but honestly it was fine without it. The sexual chemistry was there. The kiss on the forehead was perfect though~I loved that part.

The sex was hot, but some parts of that scene were almost described in a clinical way. I don’t need to see some words in a book I read ever. And I mean ever. The sex was hot enough without them. I knew it was hot and crazy and that almost made it feel forced and not natural, like the author was trying too hard. Sometimes less is more.
Ana: Ummm….ya, what she said. I think Celeste covered everything that I thought as I read the book. I feel silly restating them so just feel free to read her suggestions/gripes again! :)

Final Thoughts/Rec It?
Celeste: Absolutely. I loved this story, especially the romance. It was written in a way that sucked me in and had me rooting for these two from the first chapter.
Ana: Yes. This was a good read I loved the characters and I have no doubt that I’d like to read more about them and their adventures…or maybe their friends, Gina and Blaine, who I think would make a great second book (hint, hint, nudge, nudge)!!

[Vanessa azcune · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cute

[Pretty Sassy Cool · Rating 2 out of 5]

2 stars.

I love New Adult, and watching characters make decisions that guide them from childhood to adults is one of my favorite parts about the genre. Hopeless for You had the potential to display that transition for both of the main characters. Unfortunately, it fell flat and left us with a watered down storyline and characters whose actions made little sense.

A week after proposing, college sophomore Ash Jensen's high-school sweetheart was killed in an accident, leaving her devastated and unable to even think of being with anyone else. Despite her parents' insistence that she be pre-med, she really wants to be a veternarian and drags her friend to British Columbia, Canada to intern and study falcons. While there, she meets bad-boy loner conservationist Kade Gyllenhahl, who seems to be the total opposite of who Ash would ever go for.

Sparks immediately fly and there's definitely flirting going on, but a strict no-fraternization policy, along with both of them being afraid to take a chance, keep things at bay--until Ash and Kade end up alone for days after trekking through the forest to tend to some falcon habitats. Things happen.

...I wanted to reach out and hold her in my arms.

I could lose myself in those eyes.

I could lose myself in her.

It felt like I'd known her all my life. That I'd been waiting all these years to be united with the girl I was meant to be with since I was born.

When they get back to civilization, there's more hot and cold and then...the story ends. Pretty abruptly and with no clear idea of what's really going to happen or any of the loose ends tied up.

I liked parts of this book. The scenery was beautiful and Hill's descriptions made me feel like I was right there with them. The parts that I didn't like, however, far outweighed what I did like. Both Ash and Kade flip-flopped on the way they were feeling so fast and frequently, I thought I'd get whiplash. One moment they love each other, the next moment they have to stay away, one moment they're no good for each other, the next moment they want to get married. It was so much, even they noticed it.

"I don't get it. One second you're giving me a look like you'll eat me up and the next you're cold as ice. What is it with you?"

There are some words that I could have done without reading, like areola, vajayjay, moist slit, and labia. I hated her friend, Gina, and thought that her reactions were unrealistic, too. There were just so many things that didn't add up. This is without a doubt that would have benefited from having a professional editor. This book mentions having one, Bev Rosenbaum, and I hope for the sake of any writers that hire her that her advice was unfollowed, rather than non-existent. Authors, please get an editor who will actually edit your work!

The part that I hated the worst was by far the lemon. I don't want to spoil all the things, but Kade's knee was dislocated. Now, I've dislocated my knee twice and all I have to say is Kade is a better man than I am. LOL Add to that the fact that even though condoms were mentioned, they were only addressed as protection from pregnancy. Ash was concerned about Kade being a manwhore the entire book, and suddenly, they're not worried about that. There were some medical things that didn't make sense to me, like the fact that Ash knew how to make and effectively use a splint but didn't know that you're not supposed to let someone with a concussion go to sleep.

Like I said, the idea for this story was good, and there was definitely emotion with these characters. The errors and lack of clear direction just messed it up for me. To be fair, I think have an advance copy, so some of them may have been fixed, but it would have to be a lot of editing for me to recommend this book to you.

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For more reviews and bookish talk, visit our blog at Pretty Sassy Cool

[Nina · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received an e-copy of this from Shane of Itching For Books in exchange for an honest review.

I was so excited to read this one because I like the idea of the female character trying to get over a dead partner. I wonder as to what extent will she stay loyal to his dead guy. Interestingly enough, she did it until someone woke her soul. But I was a little disappointed because I thought this would have high emotional stake for me. Sadly, it didn't. And really, I had high expectations of this. I'm glad I even finished liking it. I hate to not love a book, you know.

From the very first page, I was able to feel how Kade's voice was so honest. Brutally honest in a way. I was pretty sure I'd love him, you know? Despite the fact that he was honest, he was also scarred and sort of scared to risk things. He'd rather get hurt than settle for happiness. I guess that's normal when someone feels like he/she is a failure. But things went a little downhill for me when he fell instalove with Ash's picture. Don't even get me started. I know, when we see a picture of someone from the opposite sex who is attractive or gorgeous or beautiful, we get attracted, right? It was different with Kade's experience anyway. He instantly felt that connection, that feeling that he had to secure Ash and the idea of forever with her. Man, that was only a picture. He can say that it was destiny but still. It was somehow weird to hear about. I just didn't feel it. So I was a little hesitant already to read through since I didn't start to feel their connection. Yet I decided to move forward with it.

Well, Kade wasn't the only one. When Ash saw Kade, she instantly felt it too. So maybe they were really destined for each other. Sad thing I wasn't able to feel it. There was obviously a tension between the two of them and neither wanted to admit that. Especially with Ash since she doesn't want to betray Devon. But Fate has its own surprises and they were grouped together with Gina (Ash's friend) and Blaine (Kade's friend).

So yes, their adventure turned into an encounter neither Kade nor Ash wanted to happen. But it did. Hello again, Fate! They were forced to work together and survive together. I can actually say that somehow, this part of the book made it for me. They were able to grow behind their pasts. Yes, both of them had a baggage. At first, they weren't sure they can past through that. But they did together. Hooray, right?

And hey, I really love Kade. He was sweet, really. Especially with that one scene with Ash. Too bad, I just didn't feel their chemistry. I think it started on the wrong foot with me. If it had been different, I'd probably like this more. But still, I liked the way they were able to get through their pasts. I also liked how Ash was able to accept that she has to move on with her life even it means loving someone other than Devon. I guess she realized that Kade was really different with Devon anyway.

I'd love to read about Blaine and Gina's story! I don't know but I have a feeling that Gina is really one hell of a strong female character. It'll be interesting to have them together as a couple.

Hopeless For You is a light read for me. It'll show you that everyone deserves a second chance and that everyone shall not be afraid of happiness. If you're a hardcore NA fan, I think you'd like this more!

Originally posted at The Bookish Confections

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

I first got wind of this book when Hayden reached out to me to participate in her cover reveal. I gladly accepted! I am a big contemp romance fan and this one sounded just up my alley! I hate that it took me so long to read and review this one because I REALLY enjoyed it! I need to quit my job and just read and review all day.


The setting in this book is one of my favorites to date. I love that it took place in Canada and in the wilderness for the most part! There's really nothing sexier than being stranded with a hot guy who is a bit of an ass, but really is just afraid of taking the plunge.


Kade is definitely not a one woman kind of guy. He is a player and seems like your typical tatted up bad boy. However, Kade is much more than he seems. He has been hurt in the past and is afraid of what will happen if he actually falls for another girl again. Upon meeting Ash, he knows he has to be careful around her. He is immediately attracted to her and upon just seeing her picture wants to be the one to protect her and chase the sadness from her eyes. Therefore, Kade plays the role of the detached mentor- acting rudely and sticking his foot in his mouth on more than one occasion.


Ash is the complete opposite of Kade. She's sweet and kind, but has also been hurt by the past. She knows the pain of true loss and hasn't opened herself back up to love since. Not only is she hurting, but she also feels incredibly guilty over losing her fiancé. Little things still upset her and my heart really went out to her. She doesn't see herself as strong, even after everything she does for Kade while trapped in the wilderness. She thinks she is weak emotionally and feels that moving forward with someone new is a betrayal to her late fiancé's memory.


Thankfully, she has her best friend Gina there with her. Gina is a good, loyal friend to Ash and where Ash is on the shyer side, Gina has no problem letting loose and going after what she wants. She is interested in Blaine, Kade's friend, and has no problem making her intentions known. I felt Blaine and Gina's storyline was left a bit unresolved so I am hoping Hayden decides to write their story next!


Kade is an enigma to Ash. One minute she could see his attraction to her and the next the cold façade would come over him and she didn't know what to think. However, after being stranded together in the Canadian wilderness, secrets are revealed, desires are made known, and the two discover just how right things could actually be even in the worst of circumstances.


While this seems like your typical NA romance, the setting is what really make this one stand out. It certainly makes an impression on Ash, who is originally pre-med, but secretly longs to be a veterinarian. Kade loves his job at the wilderness center and working with falcons. He might spend his time away from the center being reckless, but when it comes to work he takes it very seriously.


These two have their issues to work through and insecurities to overcome, but everyone knows love isn't easy. Love takes sacrifice and compromise and being able to admit when you're in the wrong. Sometimes it takes letting the one person you love the most go in order for them to realize that and then make their way back to you.

*Received a copy of this from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review.*

[Anaïs · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Stars leaning towards 4
ARC granted in exchange for honest review.

I very briefly read the blurb for this book and the idea of a road trip seemed interesting. But in the end, it was something totally different from what I expected, with a total different, new and fresh setting!

To sum it up, Ash and Gina (two pre-med students) have decided to intern at an outdoor nature camp specialized in the saving of falcons over the summer. That’s where they meet their mentors Blaine and Kade – two young nature-driven guys who regularly work at the centre. Gina bonds with Blaine at the very first moment but Ash doesn’t seem to get along with Kade. However, when Ash and Kade get lost in the woods for a couple of days, they soon find out that they are in fact not that different from each other: both have commitment issues, scarred pasts and have lost all hope…

Let me tell you what I least liked about this book: it felt to me that at the beginning, Hayden Hill was simply trying too hard. Trying too hard to create a mystic atmosphere, underlining the secrets each of the characters have and emphasizing the sadness that surrounds them and their past. The reader is constantly reminded that this book (or its characters) is supposed to hold secrets and shattered pasts. Kade for example just needs to see Ash’s photo to notice the sadness in her eyes, to feel that she is lost in thoughts, and keeps informing the reader that he is wanting to rescue her… Yes, and the same goes for Ash. So to me the way this was done was a bit clumsy.

And actually, things turned out perfectly well in the end. I mean the story was really good as it was, so no need to over-sell it with angsty bits here and there. There will be enough of these in the last part of the book, I assure you!

This book was actually a real breath of fresh air and I’ll tell you why in a moment.

First of all, the main characters are… different! And in my humble opinion not very attractive as such: Kade is heavily tattooed (including on the neck and on the fingers – both a total no go for me) and wears spiked hair / a faux Mohawk. Ash on the other hand is a natural blonde and had her hair dyed black (seriously? there’s nothing worse!), and she is more of an outdoors/nature person ie. doesn’t shave too often, obviously doesn’t care for her hair and likes her occasional large sweatpants. But then again, it’s a change from all the perfect book boyfriends and neatly groomed hotties. It probably makes things more believable and adds to the story. Plus this is written in a Dual POV, so all the more interesting.

I was very impressed by the storyline, the setting and by the descriptive details. I loved the fact that this was not set in the US, but in the backwoods of Vancouver, Canada. It felt different and it felt good. And it brought along what made the story so suspenseful in the first place. Let me just say that almost the whole second half of the book is taking place in pure wilderness, and does have some really tense parts to it, which I really did enjoy because – again – it was different from what I am used to.

The end was a bit hurried, as was the whole relationship between Ash and Kade (and character-wise I still think that they are emotional lunatics), but I nevertheless enjoyed this read and would definitely read other Hayden Hill novels.

[The Book Cove · Rating 3 out of 5]

Overall, this Hopeless For You was a good romance full of adventure and excitement and I enjoyed the different outdoorsy setting of the book. However, I wish more research had been done when developing some of the events and I could have used a little more emotional insight to Kade in particular.

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What I liked:
I liked the development of all of the characters during the first 70% or so of the book. You start out in Kade's POV and waking up from another one of his one night stands. His devil may care attitude and cynical outlook on life really sets the tone for the book.

A majority of the book takes place out in the wilderness. I find rugged men of the land extremely sexy, and Kade was no different. His expertise and obvious love of his job made Hopeless For You enjoyable to read simply because he had found something happy in his life that was otherwise in the gutter - and it's not always that you find a person's job to be what makes them most happy.

There was also a very nice adventure theme. Kade, Ash and their two friends take off on a work related adventure to go tag and monitor falcons. This requires them to camp out in the extreme wilds of Canada where everything from bears to wolves to extreme weather conditions has the potential to be thrown at them. This exciting excursion was a fresh breath of air in the romance genre - especially in the New Adult group.

What I didn't like:
Some of the events were very exaggerated and inaccurate. There's an event where the river flow ends up taking Kade and Ash an estimated "20 miles" downstream in a matter of minutes. That's closer to a Boeing's pre-cruising speed, and if a river is moving at about 300+ miles an hour...damn.

Secondly, Kade's and Ash's experiences with the wildlife had me feeling like I was watching The Grey: Part 2 and I was left shaking my head in annoyance. Don't get me wrong, I'm all for creative freedom. I don't think that everything in a fiction book should read like real life. I get that there is a difference (and I'll save the topic of how using "unrealistic" to describe fiction books irks me for another time). But when the main characters are in a very real and dangerous situation - and I find myself laughing at the way the story is written, well, that's probably not a good thing. The saving grace of these events where that they were not drawn out and as a reader I could move on from those ridiculous situations pretty quickly.

Plot progression in relation to character development was another issue I had. While the first half or so of the book I thought was great, it gradually went down hill for me. I loved Kade and Ash's relationship development at first. Then it was suddenly like their relationship on this freight train headed straight to the alter and the harder I tried to throw the breaks down the faster they moved. Given Kade and Ash's respective grievances, the speed in which they seemed to get over their past and move on to each other seemed out of place. There was little insight on the inner conflict resolution - especially on Kade's part - and thus I was left pretty emotionless throughout their relationship.

Find more reviews at www.thebookcove.com

[Faye · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars

Hopeless For You tells a dual POV of both are hero and heroine. Ash is a premed student who lost her fiancé a year and half ago vowed that she would never love again. Kade is a Canadian conservation officer who is your typical bad boy, muscled, with an attitude, and don't forget the tattoos. He too has a past and never wants to experience love again until he and Ash meets. Their promise not love again is being put to test especially after they were stranded together.

I'd say like all NA either H/h have a past or both and this case both. I enjoyed reading both the characters point of view and it is easier to understand them although I like the secondary characters more. Both Kade and Ash didn't have a good relationship at the early part but that's because they've been avoiding feeling things. I guess in a way, this is what you call love at first sight but lust as well. I like the pace of their relationship especially that it has not too many sexual scenes. Although it's a bit fast feeling something for someone you met and denying until they get stranded together and that's the start of their relationship. Both Ash and Kade were scared when they returned to their normal routine but Kade although he was late in telling how he feels about Ash was still able to convey his feelings except saying the three words. Ash on the other hand, couldn't think straight and decided to just leave because she believed that she moved on only to find out weeks later after going back home nothing felt the same. It took some thinking and three words for her to start living and getting back to Kade.

It always takes the last minute for either H/h to convey what they want to say. Ash has a problem with always playing the blame game with herself and while Blake always thinks he's not good enough for her. Luckily, they have friends who supports them.

Also, I just noticed that Ash's past reminds of the Greek tragedy wherein she feels that something bad is going to happen and because she wanted to avoid that feeling, she upped the process of her wedding but that itself is how her fiancé died.

An interesting read but I felt off with the characters.

I received an arc from the author in exchange for an honest review.

[Lyndsey O'Halloran · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked the sound of Hopeless For You as soon as I read the synopsis. What makes this book so different from other New and Young Adult books is the setting, which was fantastic. Protagonist Ash and her best friend Gina head off to Vancouver, Canada to be interns at a conservation. The woodland setting was fantastic and certainly interesting. It also provided quite a few exciting but dangerous situations for the characters.

Hopeless For You is told in alternating chapters from both Ash and Kade’s point of view. Ash suffered the loss of her fiancé only a year and a half ago and hasn’t really been herself since. Kade has a past and is known for being a player and a bit of a bad boy back at home and he does not want a girlfriend at all. Both characters were great to get to know mainly because they had such complicated pasts. Neither character was exactly who I thought they’d be and I really enjoyed seeing more of their true personalities come out over the course of the book.

Although both have their secrets and feel as though they don’t really fit anywhere, they manage to find that in common with one another and sparks fly. Also, neither wants a relationship of any kind so the attraction to each other is certainly unexpected. The actual romance of this book is pretty predictable, but then it wouldn’t be a romance book otherwise really would it? The predictability with Ash and Kade didn’t really bother me too much not only because I was expecting it but the plot had enough excitement going on at the same time.

As the book is set around a conservation setting, a lot of the plot takes place out in the woods where Ash and Kade, along with two others, are on the lookout for hawks there. But, some bad and unexpected things happen along the way and Ash and Kade find themselves cut off from their travel companions. This is where the plot really gets exciting. Ash and Kade are stranded in the middle of the woods with few ways to get back and food running out very quickly. I couldn’t believe some of the things that happened in this book and I held my breath so many times.

While this book is predictable, it is also a really good read. I thoroughly enjoyed it.

[Alessandra · Rating 3 out of 5]

Review copy received through Itching for Books for review

Ash Jensen is a rule-abiding pre-med sophomore from Tennessee. Together with her best friend Gina, she spends a summer interning at a Canada conservation reserve. There, she meets Kade, a tattoed, bad-boy member of the staff with a heart of gold. It's attraction at first sight, but they both repress it; Kade because staff isn't supposed to sleep with the interns; and Ash because her fiancé died eighteen months before, and she's afraid to love again.

When Ash and Kade are stranded together in the woods during a field trip gone wrong, things change between them.

First of all, I found this book very compelling and raced to find out the ending. It was very readable, in spite of some flaws. The biggest issue I had with it was insta-love. I can understand instant lust, but insta-love? Kade practically falls in love with Ash after seeing her picture from the intern application. Who falls in love with a picture? (He wonders about that himself.) Especially since it was a work-related picture, not a photograph of her in a skimpy bikini.

Ash has always followed all the rules. Her parents are somewhat controlling, and pushed her into a premed program while her dream was to become a veterinarian. She still feels guilty about her fiancé's death in a drunk-driver accident and is punishing herself by staying well away from other men. At first, Kade is almost rude to her, but then she understand it's because he's actually attracted to her.

The core of the novel is about Ash and Kade going on a field trip, and finding themselves alone against a thunderstorm, an almost-flood, the wild animals, and a couple injuries. They get close pretty quickly, but it might be just the adrenaline and the situation talking. As a matter of fact, when they're rescued, Kade acts very distant from Ash and she's heartbroken.

I liked this book, and the field trip provided original among the sea of new adult novels. It abided to all the other tropes of the genre, though. Can we have a guy in a new adult novel who isn't a tattoed bad boy? What's with tattoos anyway? I don't find them sexy in the slightest.

[Elena Love · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'll have to start this review with saying that the characters in this book were easy to like and the writing was great.Hopeless For You follows the story of two young people trying to find their way...trying to find who they are.When they meet for the first time,they deny the attraction they so obviously feel for each other and just pretend.Pretend that they don't feel anything because they're both afraid to love.And there's the fact that they're complete opposites.Ash has been doing things to please her parents and Kade is of course the bad ass player.Will they let themselves love and be loved?

I have to admit that I loved Kade and Ash's relationship!They deserved to find their happily ever after and I'm glad they ended up as a couple.The secondary characters were great as well and I fell in love with them from the beginning.I also loved the fact that Ash finally found the courage to do what she wanted in her life and not follow someone else's dreams for her.Kade was an amazing character as well.He went through some things in his life and didn't want to get hurt again.The fact that he kept pushing Ash away was understandable but so frustrating.The plot was really interesting and it was easy to understand what the characters felt and why they did what they did.

This was a book I really enjoyed but didn't fall in love with.The character development was good but the story was really predictable and sometimes,it went from interesting to predictable.Does that even make sense?I didn't expect the story to develop that way...but maybe it's the fact that I expected something different.And it felt like everything was a bit rushed.

With that being said,Hopeless For You was a great and enjoyable read.The characters and plot development and the book in general was great,except from the fact that the story felt a bit predictable at times.Because who doesn't love second chances and happily ever afters?

I received a free copy of this book for and honest review.