What do you think?
Rate this book
Bottom Feeder #1
Bottom Feeder
Graduating high school was Maddy Carrington's chance to leave her abusive childhood behind. When she discovers her father is a murderer, her chance of getting out of Georgia alive comes from a nineteen-year-old war veteran with deadly secrets that may cost both of their lives.
Jackson thought the worst of his battles were over. Returning from a year-long tour in Afghanistan, he planned to relax and eat his way through every restaurant in Savannah. That is, until he makes a deal with the South's most notorious crime boss, Cordell Carrington.
They want to tell you their story with one stipulation: absolute confidentiality.
Jackson thought the worst of his battles were over. Returning from a year-long tour in Afghanistan, he planned to relax and eat his way through every restaurant in Savannah. That is, until he makes a deal with the South's most notorious crime boss, Cordell Carrington.
They want to tell you their story with one stipulation: absolute confidentiality.
325 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 20, 2013
40 people are currently reading
714 people want to read
About the author
Maria G. Cope
3 books80 followersI am the daughter of hard working Southerners, the wife of a United States Soldier, and a self-proclaimed nerd fighter. When I'm not writing, I'm working in mental health or allowing nursing school to slowly steal pieces of my soul. In anything I do, I'm observing my surroundings for what or who to write about next. So yeah, I'm basically a weirdo. I write New Adult and Adult novels; the stories in my head sometimes come out as Contemporary Romance and sometimes they come out as a mess. I let my readers be the judge of the genre.
Lowlife is the second book and conclusion of the Bottom Feeder novels, though not the last you will see of its characters. The first book in the new series, yet to be titled, is scheduled to be released in late Winter 2015 or early Winter 2016.
You can find me, ask me questions, talk to me about your day, or stalk me on Facebook at facebook.com/mariagcopebooks, Twitter @pardonmynaivete, and Instagram @maria_g_copeauthor
Lowlife is the second book and conclusion of the Bottom Feeder novels, though not the last you will see of its characters. The first book in the new series, yet to be titled, is scheduled to be released in late Winter 2015 or early Winter 2016.
You can find me, ask me questions, talk to me about your day, or stalk me on Facebook at facebook.com/mariagcopebooks, Twitter @pardonmynaivete, and Instagram @maria_g_copeauthor
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
September 7, 2013
I'm giving this book 4.5/5 for story content.
Just in case you can't tell by the name, I'm a guy. You cannot tell by the name that I am former military. Both of those are relevant to my review. I usually only read non-fiction: biographies, memoirs, true crime, history, military history. I especially do not steer towards any book labeled New Adult Contemporary; it gives me a neon "TEENAGE LOVE STORY" sign. I was hooked on Bottom Feeder as soon as I read the Foreword.
Bottom Feeder is told from the POV of two protagonists, 19yo Jackson and 17yo Maddy. The story is mostly centered around Maddy. The only thing I will say about her character is that she is an asskicker. I'd like to have her on my side during the apocalypse. Jackson's voice is pretty spot on for a guy. Especially a 19yo, fresh out of high school-straight into the 82nd Airborne Division, kid who's had to grow up too fast inside a military environment. Frankly, Jackson's an a**hole. He's a good guy. Still an a**hole, but a good guy.
Bottom Feeder is not going to be for everyone, simply because it has loads of Southern references and epithets. Being from Alabama, I understood them and couldn't stop laughing. The book has a lot of motion, rather than pages of downtime and inner dialogue. Her military references were pretty accurate, too. Some of them were a little off, but it's a fiction book so I expect that.
I recommend this book to anyone who doesn't like downtime in books, but is okay with back story.
Being that I'm new to this site, my wife says I should write a disclosure.
My wife received this book as an ebook review copy from the author and passed it over to me.
Merged review:
I'm giving this book 4.5/5 for story content.
Just in case you can't tell by the name, I'm a guy. You cannot, however, tell by the name that I am former military. Both are relevant to my review. I usually only read non-fiction: biographies, memoirs, true crime, history, military history. I especially do not steer towards any book labeled New Adult Contemporary; it gives me a neon "TEENAGE LOVE STORY" sign. I was hooked on Bottom Feeder as soon as I read the Foreword.
Bottom Feeder is told from the POV of two protagonists, 19yo Jackson and 17yo Maddy. The story is mostly centered around Maddy. The only thing I will say about her character is that she is an asskicker. I'd like to have her on my side during the apocalypse. Jackson's voice is pretty spot on for a guy. Especially a 19yo, fresh out of high school-straight into the 82nd Airborne Division, kid who's had to grow up too fast inside a military environment. Frankly, Jackson's an a**hole. He's a good guy. Still an a**hole, but a good guy.
Bottom Feeder is not going to be for everyone, simply because it has loads of Southern references and epithets. Being from Alabama, I understood them and couldn't stop laughing. The book has a lot of motion, rather than pages of downtime and inner dialogue. Her military references were pretty accurate, too. Some of them were a little off, but it's a fiction book so I expect that.
I recommend this book to anyone who doesn't like downtime in books, but is okay with back story.
Being that I'm new to this site, my wife says I should write a disclosure.
My wife received this book as an ebook review copy from the author and passed it over to me.
Just in case you can't tell by the name, I'm a guy. You cannot tell by the name that I am former military. Both of those are relevant to my review. I usually only read non-fiction: biographies, memoirs, true crime, history, military history. I especially do not steer towards any book labeled New Adult Contemporary; it gives me a neon "TEENAGE LOVE STORY" sign. I was hooked on Bottom Feeder as soon as I read the Foreword.
Bottom Feeder is told from the POV of two protagonists, 19yo Jackson and 17yo Maddy. The story is mostly centered around Maddy. The only thing I will say about her character is that she is an asskicker. I'd like to have her on my side during the apocalypse. Jackson's voice is pretty spot on for a guy. Especially a 19yo, fresh out of high school-straight into the 82nd Airborne Division, kid who's had to grow up too fast inside a military environment. Frankly, Jackson's an a**hole. He's a good guy. Still an a**hole, but a good guy.
Bottom Feeder is not going to be for everyone, simply because it has loads of Southern references and epithets. Being from Alabama, I understood them and couldn't stop laughing. The book has a lot of motion, rather than pages of downtime and inner dialogue. Her military references were pretty accurate, too. Some of them were a little off, but it's a fiction book so I expect that.
I recommend this book to anyone who doesn't like downtime in books, but is okay with back story.
Being that I'm new to this site, my wife says I should write a disclosure.
My wife received this book as an ebook review copy from the author and passed it over to me.
Merged review:
I'm giving this book 4.5/5 for story content.
Just in case you can't tell by the name, I'm a guy. You cannot, however, tell by the name that I am former military. Both are relevant to my review. I usually only read non-fiction: biographies, memoirs, true crime, history, military history. I especially do not steer towards any book labeled New Adult Contemporary; it gives me a neon "TEENAGE LOVE STORY" sign. I was hooked on Bottom Feeder as soon as I read the Foreword.
Bottom Feeder is told from the POV of two protagonists, 19yo Jackson and 17yo Maddy. The story is mostly centered around Maddy. The only thing I will say about her character is that she is an asskicker. I'd like to have her on my side during the apocalypse. Jackson's voice is pretty spot on for a guy. Especially a 19yo, fresh out of high school-straight into the 82nd Airborne Division, kid who's had to grow up too fast inside a military environment. Frankly, Jackson's an a**hole. He's a good guy. Still an a**hole, but a good guy.
Bottom Feeder is not going to be for everyone, simply because it has loads of Southern references and epithets. Being from Alabama, I understood them and couldn't stop laughing. The book has a lot of motion, rather than pages of downtime and inner dialogue. Her military references were pretty accurate, too. Some of them were a little off, but it's a fiction book so I expect that.
I recommend this book to anyone who doesn't like downtime in books, but is okay with back story.
Being that I'm new to this site, my wife says I should write a disclosure.
My wife received this book as an ebook review copy from the author and passed it over to me.
September 21, 2013
I haven't read a book in a while and with this one things just might change. I got it as a gift from my husband and decided to read it yesterday. If a book is interesting, I won't be able to put it down. I got halfway through the book and needed to charge my tablet so that I could keep going. Did I say halfway through the book? Yes it was that good.
There were some familiar places in the book so it got me hooked instantly. Had me wondering about those places and what really goes on inside. The story line was very well written. Down-to-earth and not stuffy at all. I could relate to many things here. There were so many deep secrets in the characters' lives. I think that's what got me hooked!
Also, living in a military town for the last 8 years and not being affiliated with the military until recently, I was completely in the dark about what really goes on. Thanks for shedding some light in this area! Some of these men I wish I could meet someday.
I think the price of the book does it no justice. I can't wait for the print edition to be released. Hopefully I can get myself a signed copy! When is the next book coming out? I'm a little sad that I wanted to read more.
Great job on your first book Maria G. Cope! You are a very talented author and I can't wait to see more of your work.
There were some familiar places in the book so it got me hooked instantly. Had me wondering about those places and what really goes on inside. The story line was very well written. Down-to-earth and not stuffy at all. I could relate to many things here. There were so many deep secrets in the characters' lives. I think that's what got me hooked!
Also, living in a military town for the last 8 years and not being affiliated with the military until recently, I was completely in the dark about what really goes on. Thanks for shedding some light in this area! Some of these men I wish I could meet someday.
I think the price of the book does it no justice. I can't wait for the print edition to be released. Hopefully I can get myself a signed copy! When is the next book coming out? I'm a little sad that I wanted to read more.
Great job on your first book Maria G. Cope! You are a very talented author and I can't wait to see more of your work.
December 18, 2013
4 1/2 Stars
I was so emotionally involved with these characters. There are so many things going on in one story, but the author brings it all together flawlessly. Bottom Feeder is not written as a romance so when Dom entered the picture, I said "Great. Another triangle to add suspense." Notice the sarcasm. But that wasn't the case at all.The author wrote this angle so well and it gave the female protagonist some happiness. Trust me, the girl needed some happiness. Though I understood Jackson, I leaned towards Dom as soon as she opened the door for him. That is until a short scene between Jackson and Morris took place. I don't know if this was the author's intention but that scene gave me a look at Jackson's real character and I fell in love with him more and more throughout the rest of the novel. Bottom Feeder is a hidden gem in the indie world.
I was so emotionally involved with these characters. There are so many things going on in one story, but the author brings it all together flawlessly. Bottom Feeder is not written as a romance so when Dom entered the picture, I said "Great. Another triangle to add suspense." Notice the sarcasm. But that wasn't the case at all.The author wrote this angle so well and it gave the female protagonist some happiness. Trust me, the girl needed some happiness. Though I understood Jackson, I leaned towards Dom as soon as she opened the door for him. That is until a short scene between Jackson and Morris took place. I don't know if this was the author's intention but that scene gave me a look at Jackson's real character and I fell in love with him more and more throughout the rest of the novel. Bottom Feeder is a hidden gem in the indie world.
January 23, 2014
Amazing... Simply amazing! I could not put this down!!!! Madly was simply amazing.. I personally do t read many books without sex because well I like a smutty dirty read but even though this book had nothing but a few kisses the sex was not missed.. Not even in the slightest!!!!! I canttellyou how freaking badly I want Jackson and Maddy together... Will there be a book 2 good lord I hope so!! Will Jackson and Maddy get together.. Even though he was a royal asshole.. I like to see the assholes win and fall in love with a sweet girl. So those are my hopes.. I mean I liked Dom and he was sweet and all but Jackson and Maddy need to be together.. They just do! Oh and even if this book was seriously suspenseful and stressful there were still plenty of laughable moments!!
September 9, 2013
I read a lot of books. This book has to be one of my favorites. Being from the south I love the southern etiquette. So many writers try to put words or behavior in their stories that make you think the character is from the south but I can tell that person has never even been to the south. Maria KNOWS the south. I read this and it made me feel like she was right there telling me this juicy, exciting dramatic story to my face! Some people may not like that, but THAT really appealed to me.
I love that she know the military side of things. As a former military wife, I know what some of these soldiers go through coming out of war. I like when writers do their research on what they are writing about. As far as Maddy, what a kick-a$$ girl. I love that she never lets things get her down, but that she still is human too. Plus I was glad when she held that tooth and belt buckle! You go girl!
I can tell she is new at this but I cant say nothing bad about it. I cant wait for the next book to come out. She is very talented and cant wait to read more and more from her! Great job!!
I love that she know the military side of things. As a former military wife, I know what some of these soldiers go through coming out of war. I like when writers do their research on what they are writing about. As far as Maddy, what a kick-a$$ girl. I love that she never lets things get her down, but that she still is human too. Plus I was glad when she held that tooth and belt buckle! You go girl!
I can tell she is new at this but I cant say nothing bad about it. I cant wait for the next book to come out. She is very talented and cant wait to read more and more from her! Great job!!
September 26, 2013
I didn't realize how easily I was going to get sucked into this book from the very beginning. I love Maddy. She has more insight and strength than most adults I have met in my life. She always thinks of everyone else before she thinks of herself. And Jackson.....he has so much going on in his head that he has no idea what is really right until the very end of the book. I hope that the author decides to write a follow up novel so that we get closure on the many things that are still left hanging open at the end of this book. Additionally, I enjoyed seeing the foreword attached to this book as it was written like a set of journal entries that provide real insight into the life of a soldier during war. There is a lot of background and setup in the book, but there is also a lot of action-particularly toward the end of the book.
*I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
*I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 20, 2014
How to describe this book. Its not perfect, maybe even a little confusing in places, but I have given it 4 stars because I want to read more to see how it ends. First, I am pretty sure there has to be a sequel, which I do want to read, as the book leaves us, happy that Ellen is at the start of a journey to a better place, but wondering about this and how the romance is going to pan out.
This is not a conventional romance tale. This is a survival story. The heroine, Ellen has been through all sorts of abuse and is trying to find a way out. She is going through all sorts of twists and turns to make this happen. Because of whom her dad is, and threats made against her and those she loves, she cannot go to the police. So she embarks on playing the long game to escape and she is having secret meetings with the FBI.
I started this thinking Jackson is going to be the hero, but its not clear cut. He is a messed up 19 year old and suffering PTSD from his tours of duty in the army. (The start of the book has an amazing foreword by a soldier who knows what he is talking about). Although he helps Ellen and shares some special moments with her, he is ultimately acting in his own interests and does some painful things to Ellen.
By the time he admits his mistakes , it is too late, or is it? Do I even like him ? I cant say he actually cheats on Ellen as they are never a couple, but he hurts her and disregards her. I have mixed feeling about him, as until near the end he never show remorse for his ways. A lot of this comes from him being spoilt all his life , but also he misunderstands Ellen. Maybe a book two will change that?
A surprise for me was when Ellen found love. I was not expecting to enjoy that as I was invested in Jackson's redemption by then. However the man in question was sexy, sweet, protective and tatted. I know he has a great backstory being a former gang member who joined the army to get away. The author does not linger on this, maybe because there is already a lot going on in the book. If he and Ellen stay together it would be great if there was a story line involving his back story. However apart of me is also wondering how Ellen and Jackson can go though some angst and fall in love with out breaking Dom's heart. ...Or can Jackson find love with someone else. Let them all be happy please.
This is not a conventional romance tale. This is a survival story. The heroine, Ellen has been through all sorts of abuse and is trying to find a way out. She is going through all sorts of twists and turns to make this happen. Because of whom her dad is, and threats made against her and those she loves, she cannot go to the police. So she embarks on playing the long game to escape and she is having secret meetings with the FBI.
I started this thinking Jackson is going to be the hero, but its not clear cut. He is a messed up 19 year old and suffering PTSD from his tours of duty in the army. (The start of the book has an amazing foreword by a soldier who knows what he is talking about). Although he helps Ellen and shares some special moments with her, he is ultimately acting in his own interests and does some painful things to Ellen.
By the time he admits his mistakes , it is too late, or is it? Do I even like him ? I cant say he actually cheats on Ellen as they are never a couple, but he hurts her and disregards her. I have mixed feeling about him, as until near the end he never show remorse for his ways. A lot of this comes from him being spoilt all his life , but also he misunderstands Ellen. Maybe a book two will change that?
A surprise for me was when Ellen found love. I was not expecting to enjoy that as I was invested in Jackson's redemption by then. However the man in question was sexy, sweet, protective and tatted. I know he has a great backstory being a former gang member who joined the army to get away. The author does not linger on this, maybe because there is already a lot going on in the book. If he and Ellen stay together it would be great if there was a story line involving his back story. However apart of me is also wondering how Ellen and Jackson can go though some angst and fall in love with out breaking Dom's heart. ...Or can Jackson find love with someone else. Let them all be happy please.
October 10, 2014
This was very well written, with incredible suspense and tension maintained throughout the entire book. The storyline is complex, disturbing, sad and inspiring. All of the characters had distinctive personalities and voices, which I honestly don't see very often.
The story does end with sort of a cliff-hanger, but not before many threads to the story have been resolved, so I didn't feel like the author left me hanging. I'm very eager to read the next part of the story.
This is a romance, but it's a strange one. There are no explicit scenes, but there is strong romantic tension and the foundation for more in the next book. For fans of romantic suspense, I strongly recommend this one.
The story does end with sort of a cliff-hanger, but not before many threads to the story have been resolved, so I didn't feel like the author left me hanging. I'm very eager to read the next part of the story.
This is a romance, but it's a strange one. There are no explicit scenes, but there is strong romantic tension and the foundation for more in the next book. For fans of romantic suspense, I strongly recommend this one.
October 19, 2014
3.5 stars....
It's a mixed bag of a story for me. I liked parts and truly disliked other parts.
Jackson loved his mama with all his heart. He hated his dad for what he did to her. Yet, he acted a lot like him. He is an asshole through and through. I mean come on, using Maddy's car and leaving behind not one, but several different women's panties. That's just wrong.
Maddy, she is pretty strong. All the crap she was put through, she always had a smile on her face and tried to see the best in everyone.
Dom, I adore him. He is all alpha male, but get this, he ISNT an asshole!!!!
The story seems kind of unfinished. A part two is in the works...but it's a lot about Jackson? I really don't think I want to see her end up with him, but in my gut I feel she will...
It's a mixed bag of a story for me. I liked parts and truly disliked other parts.
Jackson loved his mama with all his heart. He hated his dad for what he did to her. Yet, he acted a lot like him. He is an asshole through and through. I mean come on, using Maddy's car and leaving behind not one, but several different women's panties. That's just wrong.
Maddy, she is pretty strong. All the crap she was put through, she always had a smile on her face and tried to see the best in everyone.
Dom, I adore him. He is all alpha male, but get this, he ISNT an asshole!!!!
The story seems kind of unfinished. A part two is in the works...but it's a lot about Jackson? I really don't think I want to see her end up with him, but in my gut I feel she will...
January 27, 2014
WoW. What can I say about this book?! It's a crazy ride courtesy of Maddy's messed up life. Characters to love and some you love to hate. Excellent writing. A different type of story. So many threads, all weaved together into one tale. One hell of a cliff hanger. I NEED to know what happens.
January 13, 2014
Really enjoyed reading this. Different to what I normally read. Can't wait for the next book.
January 29, 2014
Amazing book. I'm sad that it's finished. I couldn't put it down and hope that the author will turn it into a series.
January 28, 2014
Fantastic read, nothing of what I expected.....Please let the next book be out soon, the anticipation is killing me!
February 8, 2014
Please please please tell me there is going to be a second book!?!? I got this book because it was free, and it's one of THE best books I've read. I want to know what happens next!!!
February 17, 2014
I really liked it. I can't wait for the next book.
February 23, 2014
So I really loved this book from the very first page. Once I started I didn't want to stop reading it and now I seriously can't wait for book two, Lowlife.
Maddy is one seriously kickass chick. She is beyond strong. She is probably one of my most favorite heroines so far with all the books I have read. She never whines and no matter what she faces she always finds the courage to do what needs to be done. I would definitely want her by my side in any fight.
Jackson has so much potential to be a good guy I think. Don't get me wrong he is an a-hole in a good majority of the book. However he does have his own demons to face and things he needs to work through himself. Knowing this you can't help but give him a break hopping that one day he will become the person that he has the potential to be.
Then there is Dominic. We meet him about 60% into the book. The fact that he wants to spend time with Maddy immediately and explains himself later on and the fact that he makes plans with her in the future not knowing if it will workout, well that just endeared him to me. He also proves himself and how much he cares for her. after all he does refer to her as his life.
There is not steam in the book. It just seems like an honest portrayal of what people will do to survive whatever situation they are put in. It shows how far someone will go to protect those they care about no matter the personal cost to them. Maddy shows it over and over again. Dom shows it when he explains to Sonny what would happen if his life is taken away from him and when faced with Larry. Jackson shows it by willing to help Maddy in the end even if it tends to be on shady side of things.
That being said I am probably one of few that would love to see Maddy and Jackson end up as great friends only. I love Dominic and think he is really good to Maddy. He stands by her when she needs him and he shows he truly cares for Maddy from the very beginning. He never lets her down. Honestly Dominic is my favorite and I really hope we don't enter into a love triangle in the second book or that Dominic gets killed off just so Maddy and Jackson end up together. Besides I think with what Jackson and Maddy have to work through personally they each need someone that doesn't perhaps have as much emotional baggage as each of them have. I am cheering for Dom and Maddy. I hope Jackson works through his demons and ends up with his HEA.
I look forward to Lowlife. I have no idea when it will be released but I can't wait to read it. Way to go Maria G. Cope for a wonderful novel.
Maddy is one seriously kickass chick. She is beyond strong. She is probably one of my most favorite heroines so far with all the books I have read. She never whines and no matter what she faces she always finds the courage to do what needs to be done. I would definitely want her by my side in any fight.
Jackson has so much potential to be a good guy I think. Don't get me wrong he is an a-hole in a good majority of the book. However he does have his own demons to face and things he needs to work through himself. Knowing this you can't help but give him a break hopping that one day he will become the person that he has the potential to be.
Then there is Dominic. We meet him about 60% into the book. The fact that he wants to spend time with Maddy immediately and explains himself later on and the fact that he makes plans with her in the future not knowing if it will workout, well that just endeared him to me. He also proves himself and how much he cares for her. after all he does refer to her as his life.
There is not steam in the book. It just seems like an honest portrayal of what people will do to survive whatever situation they are put in. It shows how far someone will go to protect those they care about no matter the personal cost to them. Maddy shows it over and over again. Dom shows it when he explains to Sonny what would happen if his life is taken away from him and when faced with Larry. Jackson shows it by willing to help Maddy in the end even if it tends to be on shady side of things.
That being said I am probably one of few that would love to see Maddy and Jackson end up as great friends only. I love Dominic and think he is really good to Maddy. He stands by her when she needs him and he shows he truly cares for Maddy from the very beginning. He never lets her down. Honestly Dominic is my favorite and I really hope we don't enter into a love triangle in the second book or that Dominic gets killed off just so Maddy and Jackson end up together. Besides I think with what Jackson and Maddy have to work through personally they each need someone that doesn't perhaps have as much emotional baggage as each of them have. I am cheering for Dom and Maddy. I hope Jackson works through his demons and ends up with his HEA.
I look forward to Lowlife. I have no idea when it will be released but I can't wait to read it. Way to go Maria G. Cope for a wonderful novel.
February 15, 2014
I have finished this book and I still don't know what to feel.... The whole story lines is beautifully developed, the character draw you in wrap you up in their world and hold you, literally!!!
Maddy is a strong character, she's a no bullshit kind of girl, life has left her lemons and she literally made lemonade..
Jackson, Jackson, Jackson my love for him keeps growing, Yes! he is a douch bag but I see potential.... He has come back from war a wounded soul he's lost and his PTSD is holding his character back... Their so much to learn from him....
These two character have gone through so much that I feel that the book was thrown all over the place building the story line that the romance of the book was lost for these character.... Jackson and Maddy have feeling for each other and I felt like they had to deny it for each other.... I feels for these characters cried, laughed and got pissed because of there situation.... These two character have gone through Sooo much that they are not ready for any kind of love because they are broken and don't know what love is and bring in another character is not helping me understand how that is going to help them.... That's what bugs me and I don't know what to feel.. I understand what the author was trying to to do because Maddy life is just let down after let down and she need something to look forward to....
Other then that the book hooks you, Bring two story lines that you never possible is genius... Maddy life is a facade nobody know what happens behind close doors... Maddy is not a stupid girl she know how to fool people, read and play their games... Bringing in a hot active military solider in the mix with issues he doesn't know how to understand or deal with is just wow!!!
I can't wait for a sequel but I'm scared at the same time I hope that the questions that we're where left with unanswered are answered, I can't get this book out of my head...
Maddy is a strong character, she's a no bullshit kind of girl, life has left her lemons and she literally made lemonade..
Jackson, Jackson, Jackson my love for him keeps growing, Yes! he is a douch bag but I see potential.... He has come back from war a wounded soul he's lost and his PTSD is holding his character back... Their so much to learn from him....
These two character have gone through so much that I feel that the book was thrown all over the place building the story line that the romance of the book was lost for these character.... Jackson and Maddy have feeling for each other and I felt like they had to deny it for each other.... I feels for these characters cried, laughed and got pissed because of there situation.... These two character have gone through Sooo much that they are not ready for any kind of love because they are broken and don't know what love is and bring in another character is not helping me understand how that is going to help them.... That's what bugs me and I don't know what to feel.. I understand what the author was trying to to do because Maddy life is just let down after let down and she need something to look forward to....
Other then that the book hooks you, Bring two story lines that you never possible is genius... Maddy life is a facade nobody know what happens behind close doors... Maddy is not a stupid girl she know how to fool people, read and play their games... Bringing in a hot active military solider in the mix with issues he doesn't know how to understand or deal with is just wow!!!
I can't wait for a sequel but I'm scared at the same time I hope that the questions that we're where left with unanswered are answered, I can't get this book out of my head...
February 19, 2014
4 Bless her Heart Stars
Maddy Carrington has lived a life of pure hell. And sadly, her criminal father cares not a whit that she has endured it. Maddy has slowly been planning for her get away and did not expect to have her plans interrupted by Jackson, a guy her "father" has hired to deliver her to NYC to her school. We see that Maddy has little to no self esteem, thanks to her no good father. He literally refers to her as a bottom feeder, a nothing. And she has absorbed these words and somewhat believes them. Jackson is one gorgeous man. And she knows she has no chance with him, but it doesn't stop her from "wishing."
There is tons of history, mystery, and the unknown as Maddy and Jackson dance around each other and make the move towards NYC. And there is one point, where I wanted to slap the hell out of Jackson for his horrible behavior towards Maddy. But first, they stop off at his barracks and while Jackson goes for "his" type, his buddy, Dom, makes a play for Maddy. The story makes one believe that Maddy and Jackson are meant to be together. But for now, Dom is the one who loves her and protects her and wants to be there for her. Maddy is only 18 and Dom is 19, but they all seem to be so much older than this at times.
Maddy seems to have in place a contingency plan with the Feds about her dad and yet her life still is in danger as the monster from her past finds her and continues to physically abuse her. Dom and Jackson find her beaten and bloody and work to make a plan to secure her. As the story moves forward, Maddy makes a decision to join the military. Dom and Jackson support her. The story ends on a cliffhanger. And honestly, there is no secure HEA at this point.
I am very interested to see where Maddy's life takes her and how things with Dom, who loves her dearly, and Jackson end up playing out. More than a hint of mystery and not quite a triangle to keep your interest in this story.
Maddy Carrington has lived a life of pure hell. And sadly, her criminal father cares not a whit that she has endured it. Maddy has slowly been planning for her get away and did not expect to have her plans interrupted by Jackson, a guy her "father" has hired to deliver her to NYC to her school. We see that Maddy has little to no self esteem, thanks to her no good father. He literally refers to her as a bottom feeder, a nothing. And she has absorbed these words and somewhat believes them. Jackson is one gorgeous man. And she knows she has no chance with him, but it doesn't stop her from "wishing."
There is tons of history, mystery, and the unknown as Maddy and Jackson dance around each other and make the move towards NYC. And there is one point, where I wanted to slap the hell out of Jackson for his horrible behavior towards Maddy. But first, they stop off at his barracks and while Jackson goes for "his" type, his buddy, Dom, makes a play for Maddy. The story makes one believe that Maddy and Jackson are meant to be together. But for now, Dom is the one who loves her and protects her and wants to be there for her. Maddy is only 18 and Dom is 19, but they all seem to be so much older than this at times.
Maddy seems to have in place a contingency plan with the Feds about her dad and yet her life still is in danger as the monster from her past finds her and continues to physically abuse her. Dom and Jackson find her beaten and bloody and work to make a plan to secure her. As the story moves forward, Maddy makes a decision to join the military. Dom and Jackson support her. The story ends on a cliffhanger. And honestly, there is no secure HEA at this point.
I am very interested to see where Maddy's life takes her and how things with Dom, who loves her dearly, and Jackson end up playing out. More than a hint of mystery and not quite a triangle to keep your interest in this story.
February 14, 2014
This book is a hard one to rate.
Maddy Carrington's is just the most perfect girl you have ever met. She is a cook, a runner, she can fight, she can sing, she's nice and pretty and she is a virgin of course she gave away her Valedictorian place so she could be nice to some one else.
But she's living in Hell why you ask yourself? Because her dad is a total psycho mob A- hole.
Jackson returns home after a year long tour with PTSD, Jackson is the opposite of Maddy he's an a total douche bag I couldn't understand why girls were attracted to him. He takes a job from Maddy's dad with specific instructions to charm her up and bring her to New-York. Off course with the money offered he can't refuse. He's not nice to Maddy, he sees her scars several times being a soldier he would have smart enough to put two and two together but no. He even lashes out her very mean and badly after he's been drunk, but Maddy is just an idiot and feels bad for him.
You see Maddy is posed as being to nice and overly forgiving but the thing is you don't have to become people's doormats. What irritated me the most was the plot is was all overall the place, it was like the writer didn't know anymore what more to put in the book. The romance building was not so great and reading the story you think she would end up with Jackson but no she ends up (thank god) with somebody very sweet and nice. What the heck with the FBI ?made no sense as if they send a teenage girl to get the Intel. And Larry total psycho again he was to much to already not well out plot. A lot off the things in this book made no sense and I couldn't find the logic in them. The writing was good and the writer does have potential this story could have been a great one but wasn't. The ending gives me a 100 more questions.
Maddy Carrington's is just the most perfect girl you have ever met. She is a cook, a runner, she can fight, she can sing, she's nice and pretty and she is a virgin of course she gave away her Valedictorian place so she could be nice to some one else.
But she's living in Hell why you ask yourself? Because her dad is a total psycho mob A- hole.
Jackson returns home after a year long tour with PTSD, Jackson is the opposite of Maddy he's an a total douche bag I couldn't understand why girls were attracted to him. He takes a job from Maddy's dad with specific instructions to charm her up and bring her to New-York. Off course with the money offered he can't refuse. He's not nice to Maddy, he sees her scars several times being a soldier he would have smart enough to put two and two together but no. He even lashes out her very mean and badly after he's been drunk, but Maddy is just an idiot and feels bad for him.
You see Maddy is posed as being to nice and overly forgiving but the thing is you don't have to become people's doormats. What irritated me the most was the plot is was all overall the place, it was like the writer didn't know anymore what more to put in the book. The romance building was not so great and reading the story you think she would end up with Jackson but no she ends up (thank god) with somebody very sweet and nice. What the heck with the FBI ?made no sense as if they send a teenage girl to get the Intel. And Larry total psycho again he was to much to already not well out plot. A lot off the things in this book made no sense and I couldn't find the logic in them. The writing was good and the writer does have potential this story could have been a great one but wasn't. The ending gives me a 100 more questions.
April 23, 2015
I loved this book omg I don't even know how to start my review that is how bad my mind and emotions are all over the place. Bottom Feeder was listed in my " books you may like" on Amazon and it was free so I said what the hell I will give it a try. And I'm so glad I did I think I have found a new author to follow!!
From the first page I was hooked I mean when I should had been doing house work I was reading I even forgot to make lunch. There are no chapter numbers just the names of Maddy and Jackson so as a reader you really have no idea what chapter you're on and man did the story flow.
Bottom Feeder is about 17yr Maddy going away to a college and state that she doesn't want to go to she has a home life that I don't even know how to begin to explain. It's during this summer 19yr Jackson is home for leave his mother Violet takes him to Maddy's home for her graduation party and to speak to her father about getting a car. Her father lets him know if you want this car I will need for you to drive Maddy to New York and that my friends is when the story goes from good to damn good.
At one point I was 100% team Jackson until Dom entered the book. Just love how he saw from the beginning that Maddy was beautiful inside and out and knew she was someone special. He showed her that she was worth being loved. So as you see I know who I want her to pick but something tells me that it's not going to go my way.
I'm not really sure if there is going to be a book but I will be following the author so I can know what is going on. This is a must read folks!!
From the first page I was hooked I mean when I should had been doing house work I was reading I even forgot to make lunch. There are no chapter numbers just the names of Maddy and Jackson so as a reader you really have no idea what chapter you're on and man did the story flow.
Bottom Feeder is about 17yr Maddy going away to a college and state that she doesn't want to go to she has a home life that I don't even know how to begin to explain. It's during this summer 19yr Jackson is home for leave his mother Violet takes him to Maddy's home for her graduation party and to speak to her father about getting a car. Her father lets him know if you want this car I will need for you to drive Maddy to New York and that my friends is when the story goes from good to damn good.
At one point I was 100% team Jackson until Dom entered the book. Just love how he saw from the beginning that Maddy was beautiful inside and out and knew she was someone special. He showed her that she was worth being loved. So as you see I know who I want her to pick but something tells me that it's not going to go my way.
I'm not really sure if there is going to be a book but I will be following the author so I can know what is going on. This is a must read folks!!
May 23, 2014
Very rarely do I read a book that I like and not be able to pinpoint or articulate what made it so good....but I'll try.
I'm speechless. Gobsmacked!
First: This is NOT a romance. Yes, there are romantic elements but the story line is much deeper than the quest for Happily Ever After. Maddy (my hero) was a unique, refreshing character to journey with, in this New Adult novel. She has survived in a loveless, abusive house but has maintained her spirit. She says she is broken but everything she shows us is nothing but poise, grace, and strength.
REALLY AWESOME CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT!!!
This is worth reading for the character development alone.
The plot: Her father is a bad guy. Think mafia king (Don Corleone) without ANY redeeming qualities. Maddy knows he is a bad guy but she finds out out his evil is far more heinous than she first believed. She secretly turns him in but remains under his care (I used this word loosely since she is severely abused.) until she can leave for college.
Her father hires Jackson who is on leave from his military EOD job to seduce Maddy and drive her to New York where she is to start school.
This piece of the plot wasn't very fleshed out for my taste but I'm hoping the next book will tie up the loose ends.
I do have to say: I was thrilled that Maddy didn't fall for the BS and her choices were smarter than some of the other NA heroines that I've read.
This was FREE and I highly recommend downloading it.
Thank you Ms. Maria Cope for sharing your debut novel! Very impressed!
January 28, 2014
Sweet baby jesus in a cream cake!
This is the BEST book I have read in months! I can not believe how awesomely amazing this book is.
Maddy is a 17 year old girl who has been handing a crap hand at life. You would think this would make her either a door mat or a complete bitch. She is neither. She is strong and determined. She is going to fight for the life she deserves.
Jackson is a 19year old who just arrives back from war. Trying to move past what he did and saw and the guild he feels for coming home. He thinks he is taking a simple job but NOTHING involving Cordell is what it seems.
This book will blow your socks off. Its not your average romance, as in there is no sex(which is a GREAT change of pace). The lead female isn't a push over or a bitch. The lead male is an asshole(his own admission but you see him start to soften. I would recommend this to ANYONE. Having military in my family I appreciate that someone is writing about the war and not glamorizing it. Also acknowledging that there is more to PTSD than just being told you have it.
This does leave off on somewhat of a cliffhanger, although the sequel comes out in February(according to author Facebook page).
This is the BEST book I have read in months! I can not believe how awesomely amazing this book is.
Maddy is a 17 year old girl who has been handing a crap hand at life. You would think this would make her either a door mat or a complete bitch. She is neither. She is strong and determined. She is going to fight for the life she deserves.
Jackson is a 19year old who just arrives back from war. Trying to move past what he did and saw and the guild he feels for coming home. He thinks he is taking a simple job but NOTHING involving Cordell is what it seems.
This book will blow your socks off. Its not your average romance, as in there is no sex(which is a GREAT change of pace). The lead female isn't a push over or a bitch. The lead male is an asshole(his own admission but you see him start to soften. I would recommend this to ANYONE. Having military in my family I appreciate that someone is writing about the war and not glamorizing it. Also acknowledging that there is more to PTSD than just being told you have it.
This does leave off on somewhat of a cliffhanger, although the sequel comes out in February(according to author Facebook page).
August 10, 2016
I went into this cold, as in I didn't know anything about it. Just let me say, it was worth the risk.
The foreword sets the scene. This isn't some ordinary story about a young girl and a returned soldier. Both Jackson and Maddy have suffered trauma in their lives. They are both strong characters, both trying to deal with their demons in their own ways. They get sucked in to Maddy's father's criminal underworld, with Jackson given the job of befriending Maddy and then driving her to university in New York. As far as Maddy's concerned, this is a chance to escape her father's clutches and those of his vile associate, Larry Duvall.
There is plenty of action in this book, and sometimes it's hard to remember that Jackson is only nineteen and Maddy is only seventeen. They have to deal with very adult situations, which many people twice their age would struggle with.
This is a great story. It is well written and invokes the environment beautifully. I don't know much about Georgia and North Carolina, but this doesn't hamper the enjoyment of the story.
Some of the scenes made me wince a bit, but only because of the subject matter.
I recommend this book and I'm looking forward to the sequel.
The foreword sets the scene. This isn't some ordinary story about a young girl and a returned soldier. Both Jackson and Maddy have suffered trauma in their lives. They are both strong characters, both trying to deal with their demons in their own ways. They get sucked in to Maddy's father's criminal underworld, with Jackson given the job of befriending Maddy and then driving her to university in New York. As far as Maddy's concerned, this is a chance to escape her father's clutches and those of his vile associate, Larry Duvall.
There is plenty of action in this book, and sometimes it's hard to remember that Jackson is only nineteen and Maddy is only seventeen. They have to deal with very adult situations, which many people twice their age would struggle with.
This is a great story. It is well written and invokes the environment beautifully. I don't know much about Georgia and North Carolina, but this doesn't hamper the enjoyment of the story.
Some of the scenes made me wince a bit, but only because of the subject matter.
I recommend this book and I'm looking forward to the sequel.
June 14, 2014
This book rocked!
It mixed in the perfect combination of teenage angst, drama, hot guys, strong heroines, and Southern epithets. Lets not forget that most of the hot guys are military men (I love a man in uniform) which turns up the heat of the story to an indescribable level.
This book has multiple POVs which makes the story seem fuller in most ways. We aren't left in the dark when a character does something major because when that character does something its normally from his/her point of view but Maddy, our heroine, is who the book is centered around.
I was left wanting more. I want to know where this love triangle is going. I want to know what happens to Maddy.
My first thought of this book before reading it was that it was going to be about a desert flower (which the definition of one in and of itself is a sad concept) and because I thought it was going to be about that (solely based off of the name and the original picture) I put off reading it. I don't want to read a book about thoughts off of sole beauty, if I had I would have just read Maxim magazine of something of the like. In the end I'm glad I decided to give this book a chance because it turned out to be everything that I love in books and not at all Desert Flowery.
It mixed in the perfect combination of teenage angst, drama, hot guys, strong heroines, and Southern epithets. Lets not forget that most of the hot guys are military men (I love a man in uniform) which turns up the heat of the story to an indescribable level.
This book has multiple POVs which makes the story seem fuller in most ways. We aren't left in the dark when a character does something major because when that character does something its normally from his/her point of view but Maddy, our heroine, is who the book is centered around.
I was left wanting more. I want to know where this love triangle is going. I want to know what happens to Maddy.
My first thought of this book before reading it was that it was going to be about a desert flower (which the definition of one in and of itself is a sad concept) and because I thought it was going to be about that (solely based off of the name and the original picture) I put off reading it. I don't want to read a book about thoughts off of sole beauty, if I had I would have just read Maxim magazine of something of the like. In the end I'm glad I decided to give this book a chance because it turned out to be everything that I love in books and not at all Desert Flowery.
February 6, 2014
I got this book because it was free and thought maybe one day I'll get to it. But honestly these free ones I never get too. It's wrong I know, but just the truth. Not sure why I started Bottom Feeder but I'm so glad I decided to read it.
I don't usually like books with teens, the YA genre. But this is not YA and does not read the way I always assume YA will read and the characters have lived that's for sure.
I read a lot so often I can guess a path of book, but this one did not go the way I though it would. Thanks goodness, it is original and well written, plus the story is fantastic.
One of the main characters is a young soldier battling PTSD. I'm not in the military but I can imagine many who are would be happy with the way it's been addressed here.
I also think the description doesn't do the book justice. It's so much more. Maddy is such a strong character. This book is misty about her, not so much Jackson but his story is there and you're dying to know more from him. We also get to know a few other characters that I won't mention, don't want to give anything away. But trust me you'll love them too and want more from them.
Looking forward to the next book.
I don't usually like books with teens, the YA genre. But this is not YA and does not read the way I always assume YA will read and the characters have lived that's for sure.
I read a lot so often I can guess a path of book, but this one did not go the way I though it would. Thanks goodness, it is original and well written, plus the story is fantastic.
One of the main characters is a young soldier battling PTSD. I'm not in the military but I can imagine many who are would be happy with the way it's been addressed here.
I also think the description doesn't do the book justice. It's so much more. Maddy is such a strong character. This book is misty about her, not so much Jackson but his story is there and you're dying to know more from him. We also get to know a few other characters that I won't mention, don't want to give anything away. But trust me you'll love them too and want more from them.
Looking forward to the next book.
March 31, 2014
I got this book because it was free. I did not expect it to be as good as it was and i can not wait for the second book.
The characters in this story were strong and the story line sucked me in. Once i started this book i was unable to put it down, i had to continue reading to find out what happened... The only thing that i was a little disappointed about was
That all said, i can not wait for Low Life to come out.
The characters in this story were strong and the story line sucked me in. Once i started this book i was unable to put it down, i had to continue reading to find out what happened... The only thing that i was a little disappointed about was
That all said, i can not wait for Low Life to come out.
April 1, 2015
Surprisingly refreshing in the midst of a life of tragedy. I typically read romance, and while there are relationships being built (both friendship and love) they are not the key focal point and yet I couldn't put this book down. There were times in the beginning of the book when the same or similar facts were stated several times to help establish the story. These repeated statements were somewhat distracting but that could've been my impatience for the development of the characters. Jackson and Maddy are not your typical H and h - as a reader you will see things that they themselves can't see or won't admit and I can't wait to see where their lives take them in the next book. What more abuse and heartache will Maddy have to endure? Will something happen to Dom and Maddy to open the door for Jackson? Are they destined to be friends or lovers? What strings will Cordell pull? What lengths will he go to to cover up his dealings? Will Larry come after Maddy again? So many questions .. I can't wait for the next book!
November 9, 2015
I really liked this book. It wasn't perfect but it was really different and it totally held my interest. I absolutely loved the military parts of the story. I never knew what was gong to happen next. I wasn't even sure who the heroine was going to end up with. There were so many twists and turns and unanswered questions. Some of it was far fetched but I was hooked, I'm talking totally invested in these characters. Then I kept swiping the last page because surely that was NOT the end of the book! NOOOOO!!!! Where oh where is the sequel? I'm emotionally invested now!! In a month, 6 month, a year will I remember these characters? I sure hope so but right now I'm disappointed to find a book that I really, really enjoyed end so abruptly. I understand the author ran into some difficulties with the sequel. I wish her well and hope the problems are resolved soon.
Read
January 30, 2014Read this
This was a difficult one for me being intimately associated with the military for over 20 years & similar abusive situation as Maddy. But it was so worth it. There is so much good in this book that the pain & tears was a small sacrifice. You will admire Maddys courage & moral fortitude in the face of such evil. Her ability to love & forgive are nothing short of amazing. This book has a light that shines in the face of darkness, love & a spirit of forgiveness we should all aspire to have. I certainly hope we get a continuation of this story. Please even if it gets difficult, makes you angry & brings you to tears, finish the story. Let it's revelations & between the lines messages sink in deep, take it with you & don't forget it's messages.
This was a difficult one for me being intimately associated with the military for over 20 years & similar abusive situation as Maddy. But it was so worth it. There is so much good in this book that the pain & tears was a small sacrifice. You will admire Maddys courage & moral fortitude in the face of such evil. Her ability to love & forgive are nothing short of amazing. This book has a light that shines in the face of darkness, love & a spirit of forgiveness we should all aspire to have. I certainly hope we get a continuation of this story. Please even if it gets difficult, makes you angry & brings you to tears, finish the story. Let it's revelations & between the lines messages sink in deep, take it with you & don't forget it's messages.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews