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The Perfect Distraction
***For Mature Readers 18+***
When Katherine “Kate” leaves for her freshmen year at college, a grounded and stable piece of her is missing. She pushes away the ghosts of her past, determined to start her college life single, carefree and distracted.
Throughout high school Kate was reserved and shy, with little experience. Now, on her own, with little holding her back, Kate is ready to branch out. She bonds with a tight knit group of friends and even starts casually dating. What starts out as innocent flirting on the tennis courts slowly turns into a friendship and eventually something more complex. Reed comes into her life giving her the distraction she craves more than anything; but is she ready to give her heart away so easily?
Things get complicated when Kate’s ex-boyfriend and first love continues to pursue her. Kyle deeply regrets breaking her heart when he left for college the year before and is now on a mission to reclaim her. Kyle’s persistence and relentlessness is nothing short of obsessive. He will stop at nothing to win her back and prove his love.
Kate finds herself torn between her past and the unknown of the future. Her determination to stay distracted may just be her downfall or the beginning of something new and wonderful.
***For Mature Readers 18+***
When Katherine “Kate” leaves for her freshmen year at college, a grounded and stable piece of her is missing. She pushes away the ghosts of her past, determined to start her college life single, carefree and distracted.
Throughout high school Kate was reserved and shy, with little experience. Now, on her own, with little holding her back, Kate is ready to branch out. She bonds with a tight knit group of friends and even starts casually dating. What starts out as innocent flirting on the tennis courts slowly turns into a friendship and eventually something more complex. Reed comes into her life giving her the distraction she craves more than anything; but is she ready to give her heart away so easily?
Things get complicated when Kate’s ex-boyfriend and first love continues to pursue her. Kyle deeply regrets breaking her heart when he left for college the year before and is now on a mission to reclaim her. Kyle’s persistence and relentlessness is nothing short of obsessive. He will stop at nothing to win her back and prove his love.
Kate finds herself torn between her past and the unknown of the future. Her determination to stay distracted may just be her downfall or the beginning of something new and wonderful.
***For Mature Readers 18+***
Kindle Edition
First published September 28, 2013
41 people are currently reading
1620 people want to read
About the author
Melissa Rolka
5 books218 followersMelissa Rolka grew up in the Chicagoland area all of her childhood and has always had a love of writing. She started by keeping a journal at a young age and then in high school she started writing poetry. A couple poems were published anonymously. Then in college she majored in Philosophy, which required lots and lots of writing. After graduating from Marquette University she traveled west to Los Angeles. There she worked for the Writers Guild of America and found herself submerged in the writers world. She worked on small writings, but never pursued them. On the side she became involved with a small theater group. Eventually she made her way back to the Midwest, where her heart belongs, and worked in business for several years. She found love, got married and has two beautiful children. Being at home has allowed her to keep following her love of reading and writing.
The Perfect Distraction is her first full length novel. A second continuation of this story is in the works with hopes for a third. When Melissa is not writing she is caring for, playing with and loving her two kids. In between taking care of her family and writing she almost always has her nose buried in her Kindle.
The Perfect Distraction is her first full length novel. A second continuation of this story is in the works with hopes for a third. When Melissa is not writing she is caring for, playing with and loving her two kids. In between taking care of her family and writing she almost always has her nose buried in her Kindle.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 142 reviews
October 28, 2014
I cry foul on that ending!
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I love reading, and I love ARCs because I love getting a preview before a bunch of reviews go up…but there’s also a downside…a dark side. It’s very hush hush and rarely talked about. (Ok, not really but go with me a moment). The dark side of ARCs is there is no warning of oncoming cliffs.
I'm starting to feel like all cliff hangers should come with this warning:
This book sounded awesome...
But I found (for me) that there wasn't much of a friendship between Kate and Reed (guy on tennis courts). It was promised in the description, and while I was told that they were friends, but I only saw a few games between them and only a little flirting along with it.
I've never been one to complain about telling instead of showing (honestly, if I see it, it hasn't bothered me before), but this time, it did bother me. Example:
That might not seem like a big deal, but I would have rather seen him lean in to give the kiss instead of being told he did it.
My other issue with the book was Kyle. I hated him. No, I didn't hate him. I loathed him with the burning fires of h*ll. I seriously wanted to sentence him to
When Kate agreed to see him over her holiday break, I literally said
But, she didn't listen to me. And it didn't turn out well for her.
Another issue I had was the descriptions of some of the characters. They just didn't seem to fit.
I don't think many homecoming queens or cheerleaders that could be described as "mousy".
Last time I checked, boyish figures didn't have C cups.
This book could have been really good. The relationship between Kate and Reed could have been great. I was happy with it once it happened, but I would have loved to see more build up and more of their friendship.
And it really sucks that the book ended in a cliffhanger because I was really looking forward to seeing Reed and Kate end up together. I liked him at the first mention of his beautiful blue eyes and couldn’t wait for more of him. And I have to say, Reed was the sweetest thing in the world. The way he finally made his move on Kate combined with the way he took care of her after she was injured definitely earned Reed a spot on my fictional boyfriend list.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
[image error]
I love reading, and I love ARCs because I love getting a preview before a bunch of reviews go up…but there’s also a downside…a dark side. It’s very hush hush and rarely talked about. (Ok, not really but go with me a moment). The dark side of ARCs is there is no warning of oncoming cliffs.
I'm starting to feel like all cliff hangers should come with this warning:
This book sounded awesome...
When Katherine “Kate” leaves for her freshmen year at college, a grounded and stable piece of her is missing. She pushes away the ghosts of her past, determined to start her college life single, carefree and distracted.
Throughout high school Kate was reserved and shy, with little experience. Now, on her own, with little holding her back, Kate is ready to branch out. She bonds with a tight knit group of friends and even starts casually dating. What starts out as innocent flirting on the tennis courts slowly turns into a friendship and eventually something more complex. Reed comes into her life giving her the distraction she craves more than anything; but is she ready to give her heart away so easily?
Things get complicated when Kate’s ex-boyfriend and first love continues to pursue her. Kyle deeply regrets breaking her heart when he left for college the year before and is now on a mission to reclaim her. Kyle’s persistence and relentlessness is nothing short of obsessive. He will stop at nothing to win her back and prove his love.
Kate finds herself torn between her past and the unknown of the future. Her determination to stay distracted may just be her downfall or the beginning of something new and wonderful.
But I found (for me) that there wasn't much of a friendship between Kate and Reed (guy on tennis courts). It was promised in the description, and while I was told that they were friends, but I only saw a few games between them and only a little flirting along with it.
I've never been one to complain about telling instead of showing (honestly, if I see it, it hasn't bothered me before), but this time, it did bother me. Example:
Once I get to the car Derek opens the back door for me and tells me that I look good. He also gives me a soft kiss on the cheek.
That might not seem like a big deal, but I would have rather seen him lean in to give the kiss instead of being told he did it.
My other issue with the book was Kyle. I hated him. No, I didn't hate him. I loathed him with the burning fires of h*ll. I seriously wanted to sentence him to
When Kate agreed to see him over her holiday break, I literally said
But, she didn't listen to me. And it didn't turn out well for her.
Another issue I had was the descriptions of some of the characters. They just didn't seem to fit.
my roommate, Quinn Danner. She is a petite brown haired mousy looking girl. She really is cute as a button. She definitely looks and sounds like she may have been captain of the cheerleading squad and Homecoming Queen.
I don't think many homecoming queens or cheerleaders that could be described as "mousy".
I, Katherine Rose Monroe, am tall and have a boyish figure, although I was blessed with a solid C cup.
Last time I checked, boyish figures didn't have C cups.
This book could have been really good. The relationship between Kate and Reed could have been great. I was happy with it once it happened, but I would have loved to see more build up and more of their friendship.
And it really sucks that the book ended in a cliffhanger because I was really looking forward to seeing Reed and Kate end up together. I liked him at the first mention of his beautiful blue eyes and couldn’t wait for more of him. And I have to say, Reed was the sweetest thing in the world. The way he finally made his move on Kate combined with the way he took care of her after she was injured definitely earned Reed a spot on my fictional boyfriend list.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
November 9, 2013
The perfect distraction, well it certainly lives up to its name this was the perfect distraction for me from; housework, laundry, even x-factor! I know I can hear everyone thinking omg! X-factor but I have to say that this story is remarkable. It’s about a young girl who was previously in a misguided relationship and is now about to embark on a journey of experiences and understanding, little did she realize she would become the girl who everyone wants.
Kate is a wonderful character and reminds me of myself in many ways hiding emotions and not wanting to deal with things head on. Melissa has done an amazing job in building this character and making you understand everything about her and the rationale behind why she does the things she does. Kate believes she is a weak individual who has been manipulated many times before. Wow, when she does go for it you start rooting for her and telling her she can do it! I don’t want to give too much away but she meets a drop dead gorgeous player Reed *sighs*. I won’t tell you too much more about the plot because you would truly miss out on this story.
I love the writing style to this book; Melissa does a wonderful job. Stepping back in time at crucial periods, which enhance on your feelings towards Kate. I however would recommend you having the air con on or windows open when they get down to the steamy scenes because my god it is written beautifully as if you were there in that intimate moment.
I have to say before I started reading this book I didn't realize it was a series and I can tell it doesn't show throughout the book; as many of you know sometimes when reading a series the first book is generally slow so that you can get to engage and understand the characters this was not the case with The Perfect distraction and I was more than gutted when the end dawned and there was a cliff-hanger!
Melissa how could you do that to me!!! I do have to say though that it has a very good plot and is consistently captivating. I have managed to read this book in around 7 hours as I have struggled to put it down. Each time I went to put the book down to try and get some of my housework done it distracted me all over again and I needed to know more! I now feel a book hangover coming on. Thank you, Melissa for the opportunity to read this prior to its release.
Please check out my blog for Melissa's exclusive interview and Melissa's new cover reveal and i have to say its brilliant!
http://www.francesscas-romance-review...
Kate is a wonderful character and reminds me of myself in many ways hiding emotions and not wanting to deal with things head on. Melissa has done an amazing job in building this character and making you understand everything about her and the rationale behind why she does the things she does. Kate believes she is a weak individual who has been manipulated many times before. Wow, when she does go for it you start rooting for her and telling her she can do it! I don’t want to give too much away but she meets a drop dead gorgeous player Reed *sighs*. I won’t tell you too much more about the plot because you would truly miss out on this story.
I love the writing style to this book; Melissa does a wonderful job. Stepping back in time at crucial periods, which enhance on your feelings towards Kate. I however would recommend you having the air con on or windows open when they get down to the steamy scenes because my god it is written beautifully as if you were there in that intimate moment.
I have to say before I started reading this book I didn't realize it was a series and I can tell it doesn't show throughout the book; as many of you know sometimes when reading a series the first book is generally slow so that you can get to engage and understand the characters this was not the case with The Perfect distraction and I was more than gutted when the end dawned and there was a cliff-hanger!
Melissa how could you do that to me!!! I do have to say though that it has a very good plot and is consistently captivating. I have managed to read this book in around 7 hours as I have struggled to put it down. Each time I went to put the book down to try and get some of my housework done it distracted me all over again and I needed to know more! I now feel a book hangover coming on. Thank you, Melissa for the opportunity to read this prior to its release.
Please check out my blog for Melissa's exclusive interview and Melissa's new cover reveal and i have to say its brilliant!
http://www.francesscas-romance-review...
September 30, 2013
In "The Perfect Distraction" we meet the kind, caring, damaged, loving, scared, sweet, oh the list is endless, but we meet Katherine "Kate". You can not help but to fall in love with Kate! She stole my heart!
Kate, in high school was with Kyle, the boy who she thought she would spend her life with. Things don't always work out the way we plan however. Kyle decides he want to go to college single and breaks Kate's heart. On top of a broken heart Kate is also dealing with issues in her home life.
Kate decides that once she heads off to college she will push everything away and live carefree and distracted. She meets new friends, starts casually dating, and tries to move on.
While attending a party she meet the OMG Sexy as Sin, Blue eyed God that is Reed! Ok can we say SWOON!! I soooo need me a Reed!! He is just OMG Yummy!
This start out as friend with Reed and Kate but turn into Much More as time goes on, However while Kate is trying to move on in her life, her ex is still trying to take what he believes is his... Her.
This is a story that will grab you and wont let you go. It will put your heart on an emotional ride you wont forget. The things that Kate goes though just breaks your heart and you just want to help her along the way.
This book does have a cliffhanger however it is such a worthy read! It will take you in so many emotional direction it will leave your head spinning! This is a book i know I will read over and over again!
Do I recommend this book?? Is the sky Blue?? YES YES YES 1000 times Yes I recommend this book! It is totally worthy of a 5 star rating and you just HAVE to pick up this book!!
Thank you Melissa for an amazing story that had wonderful flow and great characters that where easy to connect with! Job well Done for You!!
Kate, in high school was with Kyle, the boy who she thought she would spend her life with. Things don't always work out the way we plan however. Kyle decides he want to go to college single and breaks Kate's heart. On top of a broken heart Kate is also dealing with issues in her home life.
Kate decides that once she heads off to college she will push everything away and live carefree and distracted. She meets new friends, starts casually dating, and tries to move on.
While attending a party she meet the OMG Sexy as Sin, Blue eyed God that is Reed! Ok can we say SWOON!! I soooo need me a Reed!! He is just OMG Yummy!
This start out as friend with Reed and Kate but turn into Much More as time goes on, However while Kate is trying to move on in her life, her ex is still trying to take what he believes is his... Her.
This is a story that will grab you and wont let you go. It will put your heart on an emotional ride you wont forget. The things that Kate goes though just breaks your heart and you just want to help her along the way.
This book does have a cliffhanger however it is such a worthy read! It will take you in so many emotional direction it will leave your head spinning! This is a book i know I will read over and over again!
Do I recommend this book?? Is the sky Blue?? YES YES YES 1000 times Yes I recommend this book! It is totally worthy of a 5 star rating and you just HAVE to pick up this book!!
Thank you Melissa for an amazing story that had wonderful flow and great characters that where easy to connect with! Job well Done for You!!
September 30, 2013
Warning: Blues eyes aka Reed Harper is completely swoon worthy! Melissa Rolka does an outstanding job with Kate (Katherine). In The Perfect Distraction you start with Kate leaving for her freshman year at college and from that point you follow her path to new found freedom, which comes when one leaves “the nest” of their parents. New friendships are made and crushes develop within the small knit group of new friends. She has a wonderful cast of supporting characters and you never get confused on whose who, while falling in love with each one.
As Kate comes into her own, living the life of a carefree college student, she has underlying problems involving a persistent past boyfriend trying to get her back and a mom she feels deserted her. Reed’s casual demeanor and subtle flirtatiousness makes the reader love him right from the start! You can’t help but feel for Kate. She just wants to start her life fresh and carefree but some don’t want to let her go. You will feel every emotion Kate does through Melissa’s well-written novel.
I can’t say much more about this story without giving anything away. Just click it and read the amazing story and characters by Melissa Rolka. You won’t regret it!!!
Favorite Quote: “You can breathe Kate; I’m not going to kiss you…yet.”
Given an ARC for an honest review.
As Kate comes into her own, living the life of a carefree college student, she has underlying problems involving a persistent past boyfriend trying to get her back and a mom she feels deserted her. Reed’s casual demeanor and subtle flirtatiousness makes the reader love him right from the start! You can’t help but feel for Kate. She just wants to start her life fresh and carefree but some don’t want to let her go. You will feel every emotion Kate does through Melissa’s well-written novel.
I can’t say much more about this story without giving anything away. Just click it and read the amazing story and characters by Melissa Rolka. You won’t regret it!!!
Favorite Quote: “You can breathe Kate; I’m not going to kiss you…yet.”
Given an ARC for an honest review.
October 1, 2014
The characters are masterfully written in this novel so you feel their emotions and get completely wrapped up in their thoughts. With every turn of the page you want more of them. The author beautifully captures friendship, love, hardship, and longing. The sexual chemistry will make your pulse quicken, while the love story melts your heart and makes you fall in love. This story is relatable with twists and turns that keep you excited and engaged throughout the entire book. I not only recommend this book, but I am confident this will be an author to watch. I am highly anticipating book 2, and look forward to her future publications.
December 19, 2016
LOVE TRIANGLE, yep, says enough
October 7, 2013
I received this book as an arc for an honest review so here it is:
I am HOOKED!!
Start the music, throw the panties out and rip the bra off because Reed is a man of big blue eyes desire and I begin to wonder if any women including Katherine “Kate” is worthy of him!
This book is amazing and traumatizing all at the same time..
Lets start with Kate, she is a bit of a whiner but you love her, she needs strength and I think Reed is the man to give it to her, she has a bit of a jerk off of a ex boyfriend and she really is trying to just start a new in college and be all independent but she comes across as the girl who twist her ankle typically in the woods while running away from the Vampire.. HOWEVER, I will let out a little secret.. she comes into her own and THAT I love, I love seeing her grow and that’s awesome!
The Ex- KYLE- Just hate him right now and as you read the book you will get what I am saying so don’t go all swoony over him because he loves her yada yada whatever he needs to go away he is the boil on the butt of humanity and needs to be burned out!
You have the best friends like Maggie and the roommate in College like Quinn(which don’t hate her she will make you love her) Maggie has a mouth and well im mouthy so that works well for me, I always love the mouthy best friends, many other friends join in..
Derek- I love this character, he kind of hangs in the back but he has that swoon worthy love about him..
Marco- oh I wish there was more of him because I think we all have a bit of a crush on him.
The guys in this book will just melt you but the best, oh the best one REED!!
REED REED REED, I will chant this over and over again, he is a blue eyed play boy at its best, but damn can the boy melt a women with one line. He is strong and stands his ground but not in that you will do it my way or I will torture you kind of way, he also melts easy and just wants to be a good guy oh sigh.. love this man!
SO peeps go one click, YES it will leave you wanting more but I know that the author is working on book 2 (I got a little taste of book 2 you are going to love it even more then book 1) DO NOT WAIT you need Reed in your life today!
Thank you for allowing me to read and be part of this series it is one not to be missed
I am HOOKED!!
Start the music, throw the panties out and rip the bra off because Reed is a man of big blue eyes desire and I begin to wonder if any women including Katherine “Kate” is worthy of him!
This book is amazing and traumatizing all at the same time..
Lets start with Kate, she is a bit of a whiner but you love her, she needs strength and I think Reed is the man to give it to her, she has a bit of a jerk off of a ex boyfriend and she really is trying to just start a new in college and be all independent but she comes across as the girl who twist her ankle typically in the woods while running away from the Vampire.. HOWEVER, I will let out a little secret.. she comes into her own and THAT I love, I love seeing her grow and that’s awesome!
The Ex- KYLE- Just hate him right now and as you read the book you will get what I am saying so don’t go all swoony over him because he loves her yada yada whatever he needs to go away he is the boil on the butt of humanity and needs to be burned out!
You have the best friends like Maggie and the roommate in College like Quinn(which don’t hate her she will make you love her) Maggie has a mouth and well im mouthy so that works well for me, I always love the mouthy best friends, many other friends join in..
Derek- I love this character, he kind of hangs in the back but he has that swoon worthy love about him..
Marco- oh I wish there was more of him because I think we all have a bit of a crush on him.
The guys in this book will just melt you but the best, oh the best one REED!!
REED REED REED, I will chant this over and over again, he is a blue eyed play boy at its best, but damn can the boy melt a women with one line. He is strong and stands his ground but not in that you will do it my way or I will torture you kind of way, he also melts easy and just wants to be a good guy oh sigh.. love this man!
SO peeps go one click, YES it will leave you wanting more but I know that the author is working on book 2 (I got a little taste of book 2 you are going to love it even more then book 1) DO NOT WAIT you need Reed in your life today!
Thank you for allowing me to read and be part of this series it is one not to be missed
October 28, 2013
Starting her first year in college, Kate seems to have a bounty of men at her feet, all willing to hand her the world. Derek, the sweet friend, Marco, the smart senior, and Reed, the sexy ladies man. But Kate can't seem to get over her ex Kyle who dumped her a year ago to go off to college single. When he came home the following summer, he began to pursue her in attempt to win her affections back.
After months of phones calls, when Kate heads back home for winter break, she takes him back. But their relationship is far from perfect. Kyle is controlling and manipulative. Kate has always been weak to his charm and avidly avoids confrontation. When she goes back to school, his possessive nature becomes alarming and Kate isn't sure how to handle it.
On top of relationship drama, Kate is struggling to deal with the fact that her mom has some mental issues and abandoned her family. She's not sure if she can forgive her and once again uses her distraction techniques to not think about it.
Over the course of the year and a half, she manages to build a friendship with Reed. Their Saturday morning tennis matches, his arresting ocean blue eyes and mild flirtation is the perfect distraction from her troubles.
Kate is a lot like me in the way she handles problems, which I should probably be ashamed to admit but I'm not. Distraction until it's absolutely time to deal with the issue. Perhaps even after it's too late. Confrontation sucks so I can totally relate to her in that regard. Sometimes I wanted to smack her though because it's her weakness that I see as the real problem. She gives in to pressure from Kyle when it would be better to hold firm.
Overall I really enjoyed this story though the voice felt more story telling then live action. It hindered my ability to get completely lost in the story. But the story's not over yet. Gotta keep our eyes pealed for the next installment.
After months of phones calls, when Kate heads back home for winter break, she takes him back. But their relationship is far from perfect. Kyle is controlling and manipulative. Kate has always been weak to his charm and avidly avoids confrontation. When she goes back to school, his possessive nature becomes alarming and Kate isn't sure how to handle it.
On top of relationship drama, Kate is struggling to deal with the fact that her mom has some mental issues and abandoned her family. She's not sure if she can forgive her and once again uses her distraction techniques to not think about it.
Over the course of the year and a half, she manages to build a friendship with Reed. Their Saturday morning tennis matches, his arresting ocean blue eyes and mild flirtation is the perfect distraction from her troubles.
Kate is a lot like me in the way she handles problems, which I should probably be ashamed to admit but I'm not. Distraction until it's absolutely time to deal with the issue. Perhaps even after it's too late. Confrontation sucks so I can totally relate to her in that regard. Sometimes I wanted to smack her though because it's her weakness that I see as the real problem. She gives in to pressure from Kyle when it would be better to hold firm.
Overall I really enjoyed this story though the voice felt more story telling then live action. It hindered my ability to get completely lost in the story. But the story's not over yet. Gotta keep our eyes pealed for the next installment.
October 4, 2013
I started to read this book and I have struggled to put it down ,,, gripped from the first page to the very last ,,, cursing everyday objectives getting in my way of reading this book!!! ,,, am I being serious your asking yourself ,,, hell yeh ,,, seriously ,,, and now that I am finished ,,, how I need the next one
Kate (or Katherine) is a character that you will undoubtedly fall in love with ,,, wanting to grab her and pull her into a hug and then tell her that she so deserves better than she thinks
Kyle ,,, OMG Kyle ,,, WTF ,,, this guy is a total douche ,,, I just wanna reach into the book and slap him around a little (or a lot)
Then there is Reed ,,, Reed ,,, mmmm ,,, Ok so Reed is definitely the guy that's the one you ladies wanna be looking out for ,,, oh don't worry you wont miss this one that's for sure ;)
Kate has been left alone, dumped and crushed by the one guy she thought she loved and loved her in return ,,, not there through a tough time in her life to support her, he was off being 'single' at college ,,, only to realise that it isn't quite working out how he had planned and wants Kate
Now trying to move on with her own life and wanting to start college single herself she doesn't want to reconnect with Kyle ,, he broke her ,,, left her and had no contact with her ,,, why should she take him back ,, Hey Kyle go bury yourself balls deep into some other chick mate coz Kate doesn't want you anymore!! ,,, or does she?
Kate has her new friends at college ,,, she is a beautiful girl and is gaining the attention of a few of the college guys ,,, but there is one that has truly caught her eye ,,, Reed ,,,, but he is off limits, her friends have warned her about him, he has a number of girls interested in him, and there is no way he would ever go for a girl like Kate
Reed and Kate form a friendship although both obviously attracted to the other ,,, but Kate is still being pulled back into her past with her insanely frustrating ex Kyle
Should she move on from Kyle or give him another chance??
Kate has been manipulated and degraded so often that she feels undeserving of a great future with someone that treats a woman exactly how they should be ,,, conditioned into submitting to someone elses wants and desires ,,, but how long can she keep it up knowing how wrong that it feels?
Before she can fully be whole she needs to find herself again ,,, she is lost ,,, parts of her have been selfishly taken from her ,,, she needs to find Katherine again ,,, continuously needing distractions to get through life is no longer an option
Can she finally get a HEA that she deserves?? I hope so
Kate (or Katherine) is a character that you will undoubtedly fall in love with ,,, wanting to grab her and pull her into a hug and then tell her that she so deserves better than she thinks
Kyle ,,, OMG Kyle ,,, WTF ,,, this guy is a total douche ,,, I just wanna reach into the book and slap him around a little (or a lot)
Then there is Reed ,,, Reed ,,, mmmm ,,, Ok so Reed is definitely the guy that's the one you ladies wanna be looking out for ,,, oh don't worry you wont miss this one that's for sure ;)
Kate has been left alone, dumped and crushed by the one guy she thought she loved and loved her in return ,,, not there through a tough time in her life to support her, he was off being 'single' at college ,,, only to realise that it isn't quite working out how he had planned and wants Kate
Now trying to move on with her own life and wanting to start college single herself she doesn't want to reconnect with Kyle ,, he broke her ,,, left her and had no contact with her ,,, why should she take him back ,, Hey Kyle go bury yourself balls deep into some other chick mate coz Kate doesn't want you anymore!! ,,, or does she?
Kate has her new friends at college ,,, she is a beautiful girl and is gaining the attention of a few of the college guys ,,, but there is one that has truly caught her eye ,,, Reed ,,,, but he is off limits, her friends have warned her about him, he has a number of girls interested in him, and there is no way he would ever go for a girl like Kate
Reed and Kate form a friendship although both obviously attracted to the other ,,, but Kate is still being pulled back into her past with her insanely frustrating ex Kyle
Should she move on from Kyle or give him another chance??
Kate has been manipulated and degraded so often that she feels undeserving of a great future with someone that treats a woman exactly how they should be ,,, conditioned into submitting to someone elses wants and desires ,,, but how long can she keep it up knowing how wrong that it feels?
Before she can fully be whole she needs to find herself again ,,, she is lost ,,, parts of her have been selfishly taken from her ,,, she needs to find Katherine again ,,, continuously needing distractions to get through life is no longer an option
Can she finally get a HEA that she deserves?? I hope so
October 3, 2013
I really and truly loved this book. I loved Kate from the beginning. She is going threw some things at the start involving her family but I won't say what,but it involves her mam. Kate just wants to ignore it,that's what she's good at. You'll notice that reading this book,but ignoring things can sometimes cause more harm then not. So Kate is off to college for her first year,and wants to enjoy some single life and doesn't want to think of things she's avoiding back home. Like family drama and an ex that doesn't want to stay an ex. Why you may ask? Well that's simple because her ass of a boyfriend the year before dumped her when he was off to college,wanting to play the field and have the full college life. Well after a while of sowing his wild oats(getting laid and then some) he realizes that none of these girls will ever be his Kate that he so willingly gave up. After that he decide's he wants her make and he will stop at nothing to get her either. Well our girl Kate has other idea's. A does of his own medicine,she is set on not taking him back and heads to her first year free and single. When she gets there she loves it. She is this new free Kate not one she could ever be around her ex Kyle. And yes,she does catch the eye of MORE then a few hottie's at this new college. And she makes friends. At one of these party's meets Blue Eye's aka Reed. And he is just *sigh* dreamy. Her and Reed get close,but just as friends. She finds out he loves tennis just as much as her,so she get's herself to the tennis court every Saturday for her Reed time. But others get to her first,and so she start's dating. She is having a great time,enjoying party's,dating been a proper happy college person. Until she goes home for winter break. Were she is not safe from the jackass (and that's been nice) can get into her mind,and get her to give him another chance. The Kate at home isn't as strong as the college going Kate. But I won't tell you more. I don't want to ruin the book,but please buy it! It was such a good book. I've never wanted to inflict pain on someone so much as I did with Kate's ex. But I suppose that's what the author wanted. You know they've done an amazing job when they get every emotion you have ruining threw your veins reading this :) So again,BUY it. You will love it as much as I did :)
October 15, 2013
Review of The Perfect Distraction
Category Blushing Reviews
The Pefect Distraction
By Melissa Rolka
Released: 9/29/2013
Amazon Link: http://tinyurl.com/kgletck
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorMeliss...
Goodreads: http://tinyurl.com/mfk69az
Our Ratings:4 Stars!
***For Mature Readers 18+***
The Perfect Distraction lived up to its name! It will distract you from everyday life! The characters are well developed, and feel like old friends. Kate, aka Katherine, is a young woman breaking out on her own. She making a new life for herself away from everything and everyone she knows. Is she stronger than she gives herself credit for? Or will old habits grab hold of her and pull her back to a way of life that she desperately wants to leave behind her? Can she learn to forgive and let go of things that are out of her control? Will she be able to take charge of her life and live it the way she want to live? Can’t wait for the second book to be released!
When Katherine “Kate” leaves for her freshmen year at college, a grounded and stable piece of her is missing. She pushes away the ghosts of her past, determined to start her college life single, carefree and distracted.
Throughout high school Kate was reserved and shy, with little experience. Now, on her own, with little holding her back, Kate is ready to branch out. She bonds with a tight knit group of friends and even starts casually dating. What starts out as innocent flirting on the tennis courts slowly turns into a friendship and eventually something more complex. Reed comes into her life giving her the distraction she craves more than anything; but is she ready to give her heart away so easily?
Things get complicated when Kate’s ex-boyfriend and first love continues to pursue her. Kyle deeply regrets breaking her heart when he left for college the year before and is now on a mission to reclaim her. Kyle’s persistence and relentlessness is nothing short of obsessive. He will stop at nothing to win her back and prove his love.
Kate finds herself torn between her past and the unknown of the future. Her determination to stay distracted may just be her downfall or the beginning of something new and wonderful.
Category Blushing Reviews
The Pefect Distraction
By Melissa Rolka
Released: 9/29/2013
Amazon Link: http://tinyurl.com/kgletck
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorMeliss...
Goodreads: http://tinyurl.com/mfk69az
Our Ratings:4 Stars!
***For Mature Readers 18+***
The Perfect Distraction lived up to its name! It will distract you from everyday life! The characters are well developed, and feel like old friends. Kate, aka Katherine, is a young woman breaking out on her own. She making a new life for herself away from everything and everyone she knows. Is she stronger than she gives herself credit for? Or will old habits grab hold of her and pull her back to a way of life that she desperately wants to leave behind her? Can she learn to forgive and let go of things that are out of her control? Will she be able to take charge of her life and live it the way she want to live? Can’t wait for the second book to be released!
When Katherine “Kate” leaves for her freshmen year at college, a grounded and stable piece of her is missing. She pushes away the ghosts of her past, determined to start her college life single, carefree and distracted.
Throughout high school Kate was reserved and shy, with little experience. Now, on her own, with little holding her back, Kate is ready to branch out. She bonds with a tight knit group of friends and even starts casually dating. What starts out as innocent flirting on the tennis courts slowly turns into a friendship and eventually something more complex. Reed comes into her life giving her the distraction she craves more than anything; but is she ready to give her heart away so easily?
Things get complicated when Kate’s ex-boyfriend and first love continues to pursue her. Kyle deeply regrets breaking her heart when he left for college the year before and is now on a mission to reclaim her. Kyle’s persistence and relentlessness is nothing short of obsessive. He will stop at nothing to win her back and prove his love.
Kate finds herself torn between her past and the unknown of the future. Her determination to stay distracted may just be her downfall or the beginning of something new and wonderful.
October 11, 2013
Although this might not be my usual genre I loved this book! It really caught my attention from beginning to end. Kate is on her way to college but has some family issues and her ex, Kyle, heavy on her mind. She is hoping that college will prove to be a distraction for her. Once there she finds several distractions...new friends...a couple of boys she meets....running....and tennis. Then along comes Reed...blue eyed beautiful Reed her Perfect Distraction! There are twists..turns...and surprises in this book which is why I loved it! Eagerly waiting for this new and talented writer to complete Book 2!
September 28, 2013
****Sigh**** Loved this read. It takes me back to my college days.....except I don't recall encountering any guys like REED!!! I got sucked into this story and could NOT put it down. Melissa does a great job building up the characters while also leaving us in suspense. And for those who like a little bit of "juicy," there is plenty of that in here too! I could totally identify with the Kate character remembering all the trials and tribulations of young love.
I was very impressed with this novel - Melissa writes like a seasoned pro.... and this is her first novel. Well done! Keep up the great work. I can NOT wait to see where the story goes!!!
I was very impressed with this novel - Melissa writes like a seasoned pro.... and this is her first novel. Well done! Keep up the great work. I can NOT wait to see where the story goes!!!
October 5, 2013
This book is the perfect distraction to get away from reality and lost in the characters. As I read the book, I felt I actually knew each character, and I began to miss them once I finished the book. I can't wait to read the second book to get reacquainted with the characters again. Each chapter makes you want more, and there is some sexy scenes too. I found myself actually holding my breath at times! This is a must "Reed!!"
October 15, 2013
This book kept me up way past my bedtime for a few nights...I just had to find out what would happen next! The author did a great job building her characters until I wanted to be best friends Kate, have her boyfriend, and beat up her ex. It made me yearn for the carefree college years all while feeling the tender aches of growing up, young love, and family pain.
Looking forward to Kate and Reed's reunion (that will happen, right?!?)
Looking forward to Kate and Reed's reunion (that will happen, right?!?)
October 27, 2013
Melissa Rolka does an outstanding job creating the characters of Katherine/Kate, Kyle, Reed and their group of friends. The reader can immediately feel the chemistry between the characters and this adds to the excitement of the story line. The family dynamics are a mystery and I am hoping the sequel touches more about this part of the story, especially the relationship between Kate and her mom. Looking forward to reading the next book.
September 28, 2013
I really enjoyed this book and hope there is another. I was surprised by the ending and want them to get together.
October 15, 2013
Couldn't put it down! I devoured the whole thing in one day! Needless to say, where do I find myself a man like Reed??
October 25, 2013
This was a perfect distraction, quite gripping, could,nt put down, can not wait for book 2 to see how things turn out, EXCITED :) xxxxxxx
November 4, 2013
Received as an ARC copy for my honest review
I swear I will be all over the place with this review as with any ARC I do I get so emotionally involved I have to comment on all of the things that occur.
Good girl with an old flame on the mind “but not really” but really… goes to college …good girl gone bad? Starts off with some good normal college experiences but character descirptions are all over the place I noticed. Quinn is a mousy homecoming queen? Kate is a C cup boyish figured person? Redd and Kates friendship???
College seems to consist of all the beer in the world and free beer! YAY free beer… ive never known a college party to charge nor charge by the cup but apparently Kate doesn’t need to pay anyways. The joys of being a woman right!
Blue eyes …straangly overused nickname in everything that’s coming out here…but aren’t we all suckers for some piercing blue eyes on a man… oh blue eyes *swoon*
Who wouldn’t want to wake up in Reeds room Girl number 1 , 2 and Kate.. I may need to fight them to get Reeds angsty flirty ness all around me… He taunts so well
“Did you enjoy your time alone with Marco?” … [oh god I lost my ability to form words….say something good kate”
“yea, are you enjoying poker with Quinn?” [oohh you sassy devil go Kate]
*queue inability to make words”
“you can breath, Kate; ‘m not going to kiss you …yet “ [ahhhh squeee]
…..and then I see marco .. How can I have feelings for two guys? [wait hold up how did I miss this, I thought it was just mindless flirting ].. dear chapter 10 woa you are bloody good!
Oh Kate I hated you but now I relate to you and love you
Kate has got to be the only one in love with her past, her could be present and her maybe future guys all at the same time! (for someone who tomsboyish shes got bombshell hot girl problems)
So getting back to the book…talk about a crazy real problem addressed with her mothers mental illness and multiple addictions. The pain it has caused the entire family is so noticeable and painful to read about. But I am glad there is a depth to this book that was unexpected.
Mm Marco kind sir you are a gosh darn blessing you are the epitome of the nice guy we should fall in love with and we try but we never get the butterflies. We try to convince our heart but our heart doesn’t want to hear it… (he is still ungodly attractive though! )
You can immediately tell who is going to win this “race to her heart” in chapter 12.
“I check on my next email and see that it is from Reed. My heart stops. The
excitement I have leaves me feeling lightheaded”… of course hes going to be short and shes going to be flirty but lets just forget about how indepth and carring Marco was argggghhh
no kyle you go away and stay away I don’t care how you tug at kates (and my) heartstrings.. you have to let go man!
What a crazy love triangle for little old kate… ( I may have a hotter kate in my mind but don’t judge me)
Chapter 19..oh yess Reed and Kate…its happening…???
This Kate and Reed friendromance thingy..I don’t see it… I wish there was more flirty nature to the friendship
Kyle seriously? You don’t get to be the possessive man arggg I had to walk away from reading this I was so mad at him!
O0o0o competition drama ..>Reese and reed (gag me is right )
I love when the ditched girl tries to convince the gf its wont work out…
“I don’t care that
this is a game because frankly, I’ll play anything just to keep his wandering hands on me.” Oo0o0o bold little sex kitten kate!
“I deserve a whole me.”
Epilogue—Reed I swear I will punch you in the throat two weeks and you are already with someone! How repulsive!
WHAT DOES THE LETTER SAY!!!!!????!!!!!
GIMMEEE book 2 gimmeee gimmee gimmee!!!
See Amazon Review : http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00F...
I swear I will be all over the place with this review as with any ARC I do I get so emotionally involved I have to comment on all of the things that occur.
Good girl with an old flame on the mind “but not really” but really… goes to college …good girl gone bad? Starts off with some good normal college experiences but character descirptions are all over the place I noticed. Quinn is a mousy homecoming queen? Kate is a C cup boyish figured person? Redd and Kates friendship???
College seems to consist of all the beer in the world and free beer! YAY free beer… ive never known a college party to charge nor charge by the cup but apparently Kate doesn’t need to pay anyways. The joys of being a woman right!
Blue eyes …straangly overused nickname in everything that’s coming out here…but aren’t we all suckers for some piercing blue eyes on a man… oh blue eyes *swoon*
Who wouldn’t want to wake up in Reeds room Girl number 1 , 2 and Kate.. I may need to fight them to get Reeds angsty flirty ness all around me… He taunts so well
“Did you enjoy your time alone with Marco?” … [oh god I lost my ability to form words….say something good kate”
“yea, are you enjoying poker with Quinn?” [oohh you sassy devil go Kate]
*queue inability to make words”
“you can breath, Kate; ‘m not going to kiss you …yet “ [ahhhh squeee]
…..and then I see marco .. How can I have feelings for two guys? [wait hold up how did I miss this, I thought it was just mindless flirting ].. dear chapter 10 woa you are bloody good!
Oh Kate I hated you but now I relate to you and love you
Kate has got to be the only one in love with her past, her could be present and her maybe future guys all at the same time! (for someone who tomsboyish shes got bombshell hot girl problems)
So getting back to the book…talk about a crazy real problem addressed with her mothers mental illness and multiple addictions. The pain it has caused the entire family is so noticeable and painful to read about. But I am glad there is a depth to this book that was unexpected.
Mm Marco kind sir you are a gosh darn blessing you are the epitome of the nice guy we should fall in love with and we try but we never get the butterflies. We try to convince our heart but our heart doesn’t want to hear it… (he is still ungodly attractive though! )
You can immediately tell who is going to win this “race to her heart” in chapter 12.
“I check on my next email and see that it is from Reed. My heart stops. The
excitement I have leaves me feeling lightheaded”… of course hes going to be short and shes going to be flirty but lets just forget about how indepth and carring Marco was argggghhh
no kyle you go away and stay away I don’t care how you tug at kates (and my) heartstrings.. you have to let go man!
What a crazy love triangle for little old kate… ( I may have a hotter kate in my mind but don’t judge me)
Chapter 19..oh yess Reed and Kate…its happening…???
This Kate and Reed friendromance thingy..I don’t see it… I wish there was more flirty nature to the friendship
Kyle seriously? You don’t get to be the possessive man arggg I had to walk away from reading this I was so mad at him!
O0o0o competition drama ..>Reese and reed (gag me is right )
I love when the ditched girl tries to convince the gf its wont work out…
“I don’t care that
this is a game because frankly, I’ll play anything just to keep his wandering hands on me.” Oo0o0o bold little sex kitten kate!
“I deserve a whole me.”
Epilogue—Reed I swear I will punch you in the throat two weeks and you are already with someone! How repulsive!
WHAT DOES THE LETTER SAY!!!!!????!!!!!
GIMMEEE book 2 gimmeee gimmee gimmee!!!
See Amazon Review : http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00F...
October 29, 2013
Check out this review and others at
www.twinsietalk.blogspot.com
www.Twinsietalk.com
www.Facebook.com/Twinsietalk
@Twinsietalk
I received this book by the author for an honest opinion but before that as a gift from a friend because she knew I was DYING to read this book!!
OK I must tell you that this book was just powerful. It really made me think about what Kate goes through and think 'WOW" and "SAD" at the same time quickly followed by 'AWWWWW"......ok so you are now wondering what I am talking about. *BREATH IN AND OUT* Here goes the drama that made me sob and tear up and cringe and have butterflies and .................
So lets talk about Kate. Katherine Rose. Katie.....She was totally in love with Kyle. He was her everything which is JUST how he wanted it. Then he dumped her to be "single" his freshman year of college. Kate was devastated. When he returned he realized what a mistake....Que the hearts and flowers to get back together. Well Kate says (GASP) NO! she goes to school and begins to date around. She meets Derek and Marco who both are fighting for her attention which is allll new to her. But then she sees *SWOON* Blue Eyes.........DRAMATIC SIGH..........well he is to busy making out with her friends so she hangs with Derek and then Marco...but never really gets butterflies like she does with BLUE EYES!!!!! When Blue Eyes are her run into each other at the school tennis courts they begin a fun and flirty banter.....did I mention I sighed alot with Reed aha Blue Eyes???? Well Good .......just wait and you will totally understand why.
Kate goes home for holiday break and Kyle hounds her and forces a reunion.....GROWL.....so the book jumps forward to October her sophomore year and she and Kyle are back to the "off Again" status when Reed appears and dares her to come to a bar....well she does and that is when things move in the RIGHT direction for Kate. She is hiding out from Kyle but seeing where things go with Reed. Lets just say things progress NICELY!!!! but then Reed Freaks and leaves Kate utterly perplexed until they meet for tennis and they play a silly game of "which do you like better?" Reed's last question to Kate had my stomach in butterfly heaven.....Me or Kyle? Kate answers and struts away "You!" AHHHHHHHHH YAY!!!!
Now friends lemme tell ya Kyle did not go quietly into the night...oh hell no he didnt. This is when the book gets really dark. Not too too dark but dark none the less..... Kyle gets really stalkery and even finds Kate when she is with Reed and things go UGLY and BAD for Kate. Kyle does something awful but *Que hero music* Reed breaks in to save Kate. Well Reed and Kyle get into a huge fight which Kate gets in the way of and man does the book get crazy darker for a bit.....police get called, ambulances are need and "Will you press charges?" are asked!!!!
Now this part of the novel is my FAVORITE because Kate and Reed really really connect on an intimate way. They share their fears and needs of the other to one another. When Hot, Cocky, Confident, Can-get-any-girl-he-wants Reed tells Kate he was dying for her HER to notice HIM at the parties. I broke for him because this is when you finally see him for his imperfections....not that they are bad because everyone has a past and he has his share of random girl panties in his dorm room...but you see Reed......
OMG the end of the book had me sobbing and screaming and even PM'ing Melissa saying "WHY!!!!!!!" But really and truly this book was amazing. i am seriously going nuts wondering what will happen to Kate and Reed plus if DB Kyle will just GO the hell away already!!!
www.twinsietalk.blogspot.com
www.Twinsietalk.com
www.Facebook.com/Twinsietalk
@Twinsietalk
I received this book by the author for an honest opinion but before that as a gift from a friend because she knew I was DYING to read this book!!
OK I must tell you that this book was just powerful. It really made me think about what Kate goes through and think 'WOW" and "SAD" at the same time quickly followed by 'AWWWWW"......ok so you are now wondering what I am talking about. *BREATH IN AND OUT* Here goes the drama that made me sob and tear up and cringe and have butterflies and .................
So lets talk about Kate. Katherine Rose. Katie.....She was totally in love with Kyle. He was her everything which is JUST how he wanted it. Then he dumped her to be "single" his freshman year of college. Kate was devastated. When he returned he realized what a mistake....Que the hearts and flowers to get back together. Well Kate says (GASP) NO! she goes to school and begins to date around. She meets Derek and Marco who both are fighting for her attention which is allll new to her. But then she sees *SWOON* Blue Eyes.........DRAMATIC SIGH..........well he is to busy making out with her friends so she hangs with Derek and then Marco...but never really gets butterflies like she does with BLUE EYES!!!!! When Blue Eyes are her run into each other at the school tennis courts they begin a fun and flirty banter.....did I mention I sighed alot with Reed aha Blue Eyes???? Well Good .......just wait and you will totally understand why.
Kate goes home for holiday break and Kyle hounds her and forces a reunion.....GROWL.....so the book jumps forward to October her sophomore year and she and Kyle are back to the "off Again" status when Reed appears and dares her to come to a bar....well she does and that is when things move in the RIGHT direction for Kate. She is hiding out from Kyle but seeing where things go with Reed. Lets just say things progress NICELY!!!! but then Reed Freaks and leaves Kate utterly perplexed until they meet for tennis and they play a silly game of "which do you like better?" Reed's last question to Kate had my stomach in butterfly heaven.....Me or Kyle? Kate answers and struts away "You!" AHHHHHHHHH YAY!!!!
Now friends lemme tell ya Kyle did not go quietly into the night...oh hell no he didnt. This is when the book gets really dark. Not too too dark but dark none the less..... Kyle gets really stalkery and even finds Kate when she is with Reed and things go UGLY and BAD for Kate. Kyle does something awful but *Que hero music* Reed breaks in to save Kate. Well Reed and Kyle get into a huge fight which Kate gets in the way of and man does the book get crazy darker for a bit.....police get called, ambulances are need and "Will you press charges?" are asked!!!!
Now this part of the novel is my FAVORITE because Kate and Reed really really connect on an intimate way. They share their fears and needs of the other to one another. When Hot, Cocky, Confident, Can-get-any-girl-he-wants Reed tells Kate he was dying for her HER to notice HIM at the parties. I broke for him because this is when you finally see him for his imperfections....not that they are bad because everyone has a past and he has his share of random girl panties in his dorm room...but you see Reed......
OMG the end of the book had me sobbing and screaming and even PM'ing Melissa saying "WHY!!!!!!!" But really and truly this book was amazing. i am seriously going nuts wondering what will happen to Kate and Reed plus if DB Kyle will just GO the hell away already!!!
November 11, 2013
A Review of “The Perfect Distraction” by Melissa Rolka
We all read books for different reasons, some people read books because it’s trendy, others because they have to; I read books because I love them.
Sometimes I am fortunate enough to find a book like “The Perfect Distraction” with a story so refreshing and powerful that grants you the ability to relive those moments in your life, when things seemed simpler or sometimes unbearable. When I find myself in this rare form I hug the book, close my eyes and smile.
“The Perfect Distraction” fell in my hands by pure luck, it came recommended by another author and although I never doubted the talent of Melissa Rolka, I was pleasantly surprised when half way thru the book I was unable to put it down. I found myself rushing thru my obligations so I could get a few pages squeezed in between dinners and commitments, even during volleyball games I managed to devour a few chapters earning me a few dirty looks from other parents and my own children.
But, what can I say? This book took me back to a time where my biggest worries were exams and what to wear to a party where I knew the guy I liked might show up. A time when the simplest of decisions seemed life altering; when my whole world revolved around a handful of friends with whom a few glances and a wink communicated a range of emotions hard to put in paper; and just like us girls the character’s in this book are complex yet easy to relate to. Katherine a young girl, with unresolved family issues and a history of abandonment, gets a chance to start anew when she goes away to college. Once there she meets a great group of friends who although from diverse backgrounds and with different approaches to life, manage to form their own little family. Katherine also gets a chance to re-explore her high school relationship with Kyle her high school love, a young man with and all consuming influence on Katherine that brings her to the point of losing her identity. Not cool but, we have all been there.
My grandmother use to tell me all the time when I was younger that you have to taste the bitter to recognize the sweet, and I have to agree with dear ol’abuela because only by having suffered thru Kyle’s antics is Katherine able to finally recognize true love. Reed who remains her friend for most of the book, watching from afar, taking care of her heart in any way she allowed him, attesting over and over that real love isn’t selfish or demanding but sweet and protective.
Reed seems like the perfect guy but is Katherine the perfect girl for him? We will have to wait and see for the next book in the series.
Books have been my companion and true confidant thru every stage of my life; they have transported me to places and times often forgotten. “The Perfect Distraction” has provided just that, a welcome escape from the everyday world and a perfect distraction. I want to thank Melissa from the deepest part of my heart for creating this story and allowing me to lose myself in her characters and her world.
I am looking forward the next Chapter of Katherine and Reed story, please hurry.
Wines and Labels
We all read books for different reasons, some people read books because it’s trendy, others because they have to; I read books because I love them.
Sometimes I am fortunate enough to find a book like “The Perfect Distraction” with a story so refreshing and powerful that grants you the ability to relive those moments in your life, when things seemed simpler or sometimes unbearable. When I find myself in this rare form I hug the book, close my eyes and smile.
“The Perfect Distraction” fell in my hands by pure luck, it came recommended by another author and although I never doubted the talent of Melissa Rolka, I was pleasantly surprised when half way thru the book I was unable to put it down. I found myself rushing thru my obligations so I could get a few pages squeezed in between dinners and commitments, even during volleyball games I managed to devour a few chapters earning me a few dirty looks from other parents and my own children.
But, what can I say? This book took me back to a time where my biggest worries were exams and what to wear to a party where I knew the guy I liked might show up. A time when the simplest of decisions seemed life altering; when my whole world revolved around a handful of friends with whom a few glances and a wink communicated a range of emotions hard to put in paper; and just like us girls the character’s in this book are complex yet easy to relate to. Katherine a young girl, with unresolved family issues and a history of abandonment, gets a chance to start anew when she goes away to college. Once there she meets a great group of friends who although from diverse backgrounds and with different approaches to life, manage to form their own little family. Katherine also gets a chance to re-explore her high school relationship with Kyle her high school love, a young man with and all consuming influence on Katherine that brings her to the point of losing her identity. Not cool but, we have all been there.
My grandmother use to tell me all the time when I was younger that you have to taste the bitter to recognize the sweet, and I have to agree with dear ol’abuela because only by having suffered thru Kyle’s antics is Katherine able to finally recognize true love. Reed who remains her friend for most of the book, watching from afar, taking care of her heart in any way she allowed him, attesting over and over that real love isn’t selfish or demanding but sweet and protective.
Reed seems like the perfect guy but is Katherine the perfect girl for him? We will have to wait and see for the next book in the series.
Books have been my companion and true confidant thru every stage of my life; they have transported me to places and times often forgotten. “The Perfect Distraction” has provided just that, a welcome escape from the everyday world and a perfect distraction. I want to thank Melissa from the deepest part of my heart for creating this story and allowing me to lose myself in her characters and her world.
I am looking forward the next Chapter of Katherine and Reed story, please hurry.
Wines and Labels
September 27, 2014
4-4.5 stars!!
I received a copy of this book for an honest review and what a pleasant surprise!
Book Description:
When Katherine “Kate” leaves for her freshmen year at college, a grounded and stable piece of her is missing. She pushes away the ghosts of her past, determined to start her college life single, carefree and distracted.
Throughout high school Kate was reserved and shy, with little experience. Now, on her own, with little holding her back, Kate is ready to branch out. She bonds with a tight knit group of friends and even starts casually dating. What starts out as innocent flirting on the tennis courts slowly turns into a friendship and eventually something more complex. Reed comes into her life giving her the distraction she craves more than anything; but is she ready to give her heart away so easily?
Things get complicated when Kate’s ex-boyfriend and first love continues to pursue her. Kyle deeply regrets breaking her heart when he left for college the year before and is now on a mission to reclaim her. Kyle’s persistence and relentlessness is nothing short of obsessive. He will stop at nothing to win her back and prove his love.
Kate finds herself torn between her past and the unknown of the future. Her determination to stay distracted may just be her downfall or the beginning of something new and wonderful.
My review:
I was really teetering on the 5 star mark and if it weren't for a couple of things I think I would have given it the full 5. One being the end, not that I mind a cliff hanger it was more the time that had passed. It had only been 2 weeks and he already tried to hook up with girls. If more time had passed where they weren't in contact then I wouldn't have minded as much. I really wish in the epilogue Reed would have read the letter and we as readers could have seen what was written.
I love the fact that there was a close group of girlfriends without all the cattiness you get in books sometimes. I love how Quinn and Kate do not hold anything against each other as well as Kelly and Kate. I loved how mature the men handled Kate's disinterest in them and still remained friends.
I really liked Kate and Reed. I wish we had more of them. I hated Kyle and thought his character was very well written. I was so happy when she finally told him she was done. Another thing I thought was refreshing was "The Scene" with Kyle and Kate where Reed walks in and didn't jump to conclusions upon seeing them. So many times the guy would have walked in and left the girl because he automatically assumed they were doing something else, which would have taken the book in a different direction.
All in all great read and I can't wait for the story to continue.
I received a copy of this book for an honest review and what a pleasant surprise!
Book Description:
When Katherine “Kate” leaves for her freshmen year at college, a grounded and stable piece of her is missing. She pushes away the ghosts of her past, determined to start her college life single, carefree and distracted.
Throughout high school Kate was reserved and shy, with little experience. Now, on her own, with little holding her back, Kate is ready to branch out. She bonds with a tight knit group of friends and even starts casually dating. What starts out as innocent flirting on the tennis courts slowly turns into a friendship and eventually something more complex. Reed comes into her life giving her the distraction she craves more than anything; but is she ready to give her heart away so easily?
Things get complicated when Kate’s ex-boyfriend and first love continues to pursue her. Kyle deeply regrets breaking her heart when he left for college the year before and is now on a mission to reclaim her. Kyle’s persistence and relentlessness is nothing short of obsessive. He will stop at nothing to win her back and prove his love.
Kate finds herself torn between her past and the unknown of the future. Her determination to stay distracted may just be her downfall or the beginning of something new and wonderful.
My review:
I was really teetering on the 5 star mark and if it weren't for a couple of things I think I would have given it the full 5. One being the end, not that I mind a cliff hanger it was more the time that had passed. It had only been 2 weeks and he already tried to hook up with girls. If more time had passed where they weren't in contact then I wouldn't have minded as much. I really wish in the epilogue Reed would have read the letter and we as readers could have seen what was written.
I love the fact that there was a close group of girlfriends without all the cattiness you get in books sometimes. I love how Quinn and Kate do not hold anything against each other as well as Kelly and Kate. I loved how mature the men handled Kate's disinterest in them and still remained friends.
I really liked Kate and Reed. I wish we had more of them. I hated Kyle and thought his character was very well written. I was so happy when she finally told him she was done. Another thing I thought was refreshing was "The Scene" with Kyle and Kate where Reed walks in and didn't jump to conclusions upon seeing them. So many times the guy would have walked in and left the girl because he automatically assumed they were doing something else, which would have taken the book in a different direction.
All in all great read and I can't wait for the story to continue.
November 10, 2013
In this book we have Katherine "Kate"
She is starting her first year at college. She can't wait to have a little fun to get away from how home life is going. She is a gorgeous girl. But hasn't had the best luck with relationships.
That's where Kyle comes in or the Jerk as I call him. He is a a$$ hole. Has some serious issues. Needs anger management. He treats Kate so Bad. I actually think he might really love her but had some major problems he needs to work thru.
Then there is Reed "Blue Eyes" as Kate calls him. He is the college man whore. He is gorgeous and all the girls want him. Reed and Kate first see each other at a party. But they really start to talk when they meet up at the tennis courts.
"You're so beautiful. Perfect. It kills me and infuriates me to hear that someone has been mean to you or hurt you. I hate to see you cry." Reed
"God, I can't stop myself" "Now that I've had a taste of you, Kate, I don't know I I can get enough. I just want to be close to you" Reed <--SWOON
They become friends that flirt first. Then it starts to turn into more. He doesnt try to push her into anything because his is worried about how Kate might be still seing Kyle.
They finally start getting close after Kate makes it clear she wants nothing more to do with her ex.
But Kyle the jerk never quits.
The secondary characters..well lets see
We have Maggie she is a awesome best friend and truly cares about Kate. Then there is Quinn her roomate the first year of college. She is something else I loved her and would love to have more from Quinn. Also kelly her running and tennis friend she was a little sweet heart. We have Derek he is so sweet. Marco was awesome. Kate had so many guys wanting her attention. There is tons of other characters but I didn't connect with them like I did the others.
Okay I can't explain anything more or I'm gonna give away the entire story.
There is a cliffhanger. But it gives u a hint of where the next one will pick up.
I love this book!
Would I recommend this book? Heck yes
Is there a lot of sex scenes? No but there are a few. Enough considering that's not what this book is about.
I received this book from the author for a honest review.
She is starting her first year at college. She can't wait to have a little fun to get away from how home life is going. She is a gorgeous girl. But hasn't had the best luck with relationships.
That's where Kyle comes in or the Jerk as I call him. He is a a$$ hole. Has some serious issues. Needs anger management. He treats Kate so Bad. I actually think he might really love her but had some major problems he needs to work thru.
Then there is Reed "Blue Eyes" as Kate calls him. He is the college man whore. He is gorgeous and all the girls want him. Reed and Kate first see each other at a party. But they really start to talk when they meet up at the tennis courts.
"You're so beautiful. Perfect. It kills me and infuriates me to hear that someone has been mean to you or hurt you. I hate to see you cry." Reed
"God, I can't stop myself" "Now that I've had a taste of you, Kate, I don't know I I can get enough. I just want to be close to you" Reed <--SWOON
They become friends that flirt first. Then it starts to turn into more. He doesnt try to push her into anything because his is worried about how Kate might be still seing Kyle.
They finally start getting close after Kate makes it clear she wants nothing more to do with her ex.
But Kyle the jerk never quits.
The secondary characters..well lets see
We have Maggie she is a awesome best friend and truly cares about Kate. Then there is Quinn her roomate the first year of college. She is something else I loved her and would love to have more from Quinn. Also kelly her running and tennis friend she was a little sweet heart. We have Derek he is so sweet. Marco was awesome. Kate had so many guys wanting her attention. There is tons of other characters but I didn't connect with them like I did the others.
Okay I can't explain anything more or I'm gonna give away the entire story.
There is a cliffhanger. But it gives u a hint of where the next one will pick up.
I love this book!
Would I recommend this book? Heck yes
Is there a lot of sex scenes? No but there are a few. Enough considering that's not what this book is about.
I received this book from the author for a honest review.
September 6, 2016
Received an arc in exchange for an honest review.
Kate is starting college single due to Kyle her ex-boyfriend dumping her as he wanted 'The college experience' ie: he wanted to be a player!
But, as they do, he realises his mistakes, what he has lost and wants her back.
Kate though decides no, she wants to go to college single and so resists.......not an easy decision as Kyle was her first love.
Great mix of friends at college, some cute guys.... Derek & Marco who provide Distractions.....But the perfect Distraction is in Blue Eyes, who she spots at the first Party.....swoon!
But you know how it goes, you don't get the guy that easily.....She dates a couple of others first but we know they are just distractions.
Anyhow, My fav first flirty line from Reed (Blue Eyes) comes after a date with Marco and she is waiting for the bathroom....yeah, how romantic.....but it is, it is sexual tension and hairs on the back of your neck standing up!
"You can breathe, Kate: I'm not going to kiss you...yet."
But, Kyle still wants her back, he is obsessive and relentless in his pusual, back home on Winter break......she agrees to give him another chance to try......Don't!!!!! I was screaming at her, he really is a first class creep. But you know what it is like, you have to make your own mistakes.
It kind of puts a dampner on her college experience as she isn't as carefree with Kyle the Controlling in the background, but thankfully the Author doesn't go into pages and pages of this storyline and it does mix up a bit between past, explaining her family ( Drama alert ) and of course, without Kyle we wouldn't have this VILE Creep to hate on, and I love to hate a character!
I won't say anymore as I will end up spoiling things....
Be warned their is a slight cliffhanger, which i love, there is a lot drama to this book which I wasn't expecting, I guess i was expecting just a college romance but it is so, so much more.... I really enjoyed it, family drama, love drama, great friendships, Romance, and a bit of action though not graphic.....I also had some tears at times!!
I am very much looking forward to the next in the series!
Kate is starting college single due to Kyle her ex-boyfriend dumping her as he wanted 'The college experience' ie: he wanted to be a player!
But, as they do, he realises his mistakes, what he has lost and wants her back.
Kate though decides no, she wants to go to college single and so resists.......not an easy decision as Kyle was her first love.
Great mix of friends at college, some cute guys.... Derek & Marco who provide Distractions.....But the perfect Distraction is in Blue Eyes, who she spots at the first Party.....swoon!
But you know how it goes, you don't get the guy that easily.....She dates a couple of others first but we know they are just distractions.
Anyhow, My fav first flirty line from Reed (Blue Eyes) comes after a date with Marco and she is waiting for the bathroom....yeah, how romantic.....but it is, it is sexual tension and hairs on the back of your neck standing up!
"You can breathe, Kate: I'm not going to kiss you...yet."
But, Kyle still wants her back, he is obsessive and relentless in his pusual, back home on Winter break......she agrees to give him another chance to try......Don't!!!!! I was screaming at her, he really is a first class creep. But you know what it is like, you have to make your own mistakes.
It kind of puts a dampner on her college experience as she isn't as carefree with Kyle the Controlling in the background, but thankfully the Author doesn't go into pages and pages of this storyline and it does mix up a bit between past, explaining her family ( Drama alert ) and of course, without Kyle we wouldn't have this VILE Creep to hate on, and I love to hate a character!
I won't say anymore as I will end up spoiling things....
Be warned their is a slight cliffhanger, which i love, there is a lot drama to this book which I wasn't expecting, I guess i was expecting just a college romance but it is so, so much more.... I really enjoyed it, family drama, love drama, great friendships, Romance, and a bit of action though not graphic.....I also had some tears at times!!
I am very much looking forward to the next in the series!
January 20, 2014
4.5 Stars
I love a book that makes you feel, and this book certainly did, from sadness, anger love and frustration I felt them all.
I really enjoyed this book it has a good story with lots of twists to keep the reader entertained.
Kate has had a really bad year her boyfriend,Kyle dumps to go off to college and her Mom has left too these events change Kate leaving her an emotional mess. When it's time for Kate to leave for college she decides she's going to live a little, and take a few risks!
As soon as she hits college she catches the eye of a few of the students.
I loved this part seeing Kate dating and growing more confident with each relationship , but she can't shake off the image of the amazing blue eyes of Reed, and then Kyle decides he wants Kate back and will do anything and everything to make that happen !
I really disliked the character of Kyle, he made Kate weak and made her question herself which I hated , I wanted Kate to tell Kyle to F**k off!!!!
Reed seems to be the typical college student partying and a different girl every week, but as Kate gets to known Reed through their tennis games its clear there is more to this handsome man, and I fell for him !
It takes a while for Kate and Reed's relationship to get going, and at times I felt frustrated that it wasn't happening fast enough for me, but it was worth the wait !!!!
As I said I did enjoy this book, but at tines I did feel frustrated with the characters, storyline and over use of some phases,
The end leaves you wanting more which leads nicely into next book, which I looking forward to reading.
I read this with The Perfect Distraction Virtual Book Club from
https://www.facebook.com/FrancesscasR...
I love a book that makes you feel, and this book certainly did, from sadness, anger love and frustration I felt them all.
I really enjoyed this book it has a good story with lots of twists to keep the reader entertained.
Kate has had a really bad year her boyfriend,Kyle dumps to go off to college and her Mom has left too these events change Kate leaving her an emotional mess. When it's time for Kate to leave for college she decides she's going to live a little, and take a few risks!
As soon as she hits college she catches the eye of a few of the students.
I loved this part seeing Kate dating and growing more confident with each relationship , but she can't shake off the image of the amazing blue eyes of Reed, and then Kyle decides he wants Kate back and will do anything and everything to make that happen !
I really disliked the character of Kyle, he made Kate weak and made her question herself which I hated , I wanted Kate to tell Kyle to F**k off!!!!
Reed seems to be the typical college student partying and a different girl every week, but as Kate gets to known Reed through their tennis games its clear there is more to this handsome man, and I fell for him !
It takes a while for Kate and Reed's relationship to get going, and at times I felt frustrated that it wasn't happening fast enough for me, but it was worth the wait !!!!
As I said I did enjoy this book, but at tines I did feel frustrated with the characters, storyline and over use of some phases,
The end leaves you wanting more which leads nicely into next book, which I looking forward to reading.
I read this with The Perfect Distraction Virtual Book Club from
https://www.facebook.com/FrancesscasR...
July 14, 2014
The Perfect Distraction certainly distracted me during the course of reading it! It was absolutely AMAZING!
I loved Kate! She was introverted and had an innocent vibe, but she wasn't totally naive. Although she lacked some self confidence, I enjoyed her journey as she grew and learned to assert herself.
Her diverse group of friends were also extremely lovable. It was great how they all cared for on another and rallied together when they needed too.
And Reed Harper? OMG! SWOON! He was almost too perfect! I felt like I was constantly looking into those intense blue eyes whenever Kate was. I liked how he acted towards Kate as their friendship slowly began turning into something more. He was so patient and considerate of her!
I was captivated with Melissa Rolka's writing. It easily held my attention for the duration of the book. Her characters were very well developed, and again, very lovable. They were easy to relate to.
If you feel like being distracted for a little while, The Perfect Distraction by Melissa Rolka is definitely the book to get distracted in! I can't wait for the next book in the series to find out what happens next for Kate and Reed!
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I loved Kate! She was introverted and had an innocent vibe, but she wasn't totally naive. Although she lacked some self confidence, I enjoyed her journey as she grew and learned to assert herself.
Her diverse group of friends were also extremely lovable. It was great how they all cared for on another and rallied together when they needed too.
And Reed Harper? OMG! SWOON! He was almost too perfect! I felt like I was constantly looking into those intense blue eyes whenever Kate was. I liked how he acted towards Kate as their friendship slowly began turning into something more. He was so patient and considerate of her!
I was captivated with Melissa Rolka's writing. It easily held my attention for the duration of the book. Her characters were very well developed, and again, very lovable. They were easy to relate to.
If you feel like being distracted for a little while, The Perfect Distraction by Melissa Rolka is definitely the book to get distracted in! I can't wait for the next book in the series to find out what happens next for Kate and Reed!
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 12, 2013
I must say I picked this book up a few times and set it back down because I just couldn't get into it. BUT once I made it through the first chapter, I couldn't put the thing down. I'll admit that I tend to be a bit pickier with New Adult books since there is so many. But this one was hook line and sinker to me. There is a bit of a love triangle at a few points, but when push comes to shove, there really is no contest and you can tell.
Kate uses tennis to escape from the troubles life throws at her. Through this she comes to get to know Reed. Now, I'll tell you. Reed is super hot! They have a great friendship that changes and turns in a few ways that you'll just have to read to find out about.
Of course, I didn't care for the ending because there is a huge cliff you jump off. But admittedly, I saw it coming. I can't wait to get my hands on the second one and read more about Reed..
Kate uses tennis to escape from the troubles life throws at her. Through this she comes to get to know Reed. Now, I'll tell you. Reed is super hot! They have a great friendship that changes and turns in a few ways that you'll just have to read to find out about.
Of course, I didn't care for the ending because there is a huge cliff you jump off. But admittedly, I saw it coming. I can't wait to get my hands on the second one and read more about Reed..
November 15, 2013
Two words: Reed. Harper.
The Perfect Distraction is more than a boy meets girl college story. The layers Melissa Rolka manages to weave together blend the excitement of falling in love with the anxiety of a love gone wrong. Kyle is the epitome of hot mess and Melissa captures how easy it is to ignore the red flags of a bad relationship. Kate's relationship with Kyle is beautifully constructed in a way to highlight the perfection that is Reed Harper. Again... Two words: Reed. Harper.
I'm looking forward to more of this love story!
The Perfect Distraction is more than a boy meets girl college story. The layers Melissa Rolka manages to weave together blend the excitement of falling in love with the anxiety of a love gone wrong. Kyle is the epitome of hot mess and Melissa captures how easy it is to ignore the red flags of a bad relationship. Kate's relationship with Kyle is beautifully constructed in a way to highlight the perfection that is Reed Harper. Again... Two words: Reed. Harper.
I'm looking forward to more of this love story!
January 13, 2014
It took me a while to get into this story, but once I did I really enjoyed it, although I'll be honest I didn't understand many of Kate's decisions.
Kyle... What can I say about Kyle that isn't derogatory, nothing if I think about it, what a sleaze!
Reed on the other hand, well he had me at blue eyes and the more I read the more I liked him.
I might not agree with how the book ended but I do understand it, and the story isn't finished, it's not a cliffhanger, it rounds things off to a point but you need to read book two for resolution.
I'll be reading book two.
Kyle... What can I say about Kyle that isn't derogatory, nothing if I think about it, what a sleaze!
Reed on the other hand, well he had me at blue eyes and the more I read the more I liked him.
I might not agree with how the book ended but I do understand it, and the story isn't finished, it's not a cliffhanger, it rounds things off to a point but you need to read book two for resolution.
I'll be reading book two.
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