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Winter Rescue #1
In the Clear
Fletcher Owens is full of secrets.
Few people know he spends his nights volunteering for a Search and Rescue team, saving lives while risking his own. Even fewer know he’s in love with his best friend’s sister. And since he’s not willing to give up their friendship for a chance at something more, that’s exactly how things will stay.
Lexie Sinclair has nothing to hide.
The zany daughter, the wacky sister, the quirky fundraiser for a children’s charity — Lexie couldn’t hide her true self even if she wanted to. So when her brother’s best friend is revealed to be a local hero, she’s determined to stand up and prove she’s ready to be more than just friends.
(37,000 words)
Few people know he spends his nights volunteering for a Search and Rescue team, saving lives while risking his own. Even fewer know he’s in love with his best friend’s sister. And since he’s not willing to give up their friendship for a chance at something more, that’s exactly how things will stay.
Lexie Sinclair has nothing to hide.
The zany daughter, the wacky sister, the quirky fundraiser for a children’s charity — Lexie couldn’t hide her true self even if she wanted to. So when her brother’s best friend is revealed to be a local hero, she’s determined to stand up and prove she’s ready to be more than just friends.
(37,000 words)
96 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 6, 2013
34 people are currently reading
742 people want to read
About the author
Tamara Morgan
39 books216 followersTamara Morgan is a contemporary comedy romance author. Ninety-nine percent of her information comes from television, movies, books, and all other pop culture activities that limit the amount of time she has to spend in polite company.
Her long-lived affinity for romance novels survived a B.A. degree in English Literature, after which time she discovered it was much more fun to create stories than analyze the life out of them. She lives with her husband and teen in the Inland Northwest, where the summers are hot, the winters are cold, and coffee is available on every street corner.
Her long-lived affinity for romance novels survived a B.A. degree in English Literature, after which time she discovered it was much more fun to create stories than analyze the life out of them. She lives with her husband and teen in the Inland Northwest, where the summers are hot, the winters are cold, and coffee is available on every street corner.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
December 28, 2015
3½ stars
Why I Read this Book: I hadn’t heard of In The Clear until I saw author Elyssa Patrick (not the author of this book) doing a giveaway on Twitter for the book. I checked it out, read the blurb, and knew I wanted to read it, so I entered and won.
What I Liked: The premise caught my attention. I don’t think I’ve ever read a book involving a search and rescue team, which was something different and interesting to read. I especially liked that Fletcher didn’t brag about being a hero, nor did he use it to pick up women. He’s not on the rescue team for fame or status; he does it because he wants to help people.
I love a good friends-to-lovers romance. Fletcher is all around good guy and he happens to be Lexie’s brother’s best friend. He’s friends with Lexie, and vice versa, but Fletcher has more than friend feelings for Lexie.
What I Didn’t Like: The transition from friends to lovers wasn't smooth; it was a bit jittery. The line of communication kept getting interrupted and there were misunderstandings.
Something I found odd was that all of a sudden, Lexie was in Fletcher’s bathroom. Did she have a key to his place? Did he leave the door unlocked? He didn't seem surprised that she was standing there, in his bathroom, as he was taking a shower.
Overall Impression: In the Clear was a fast and enjoyable read, even with the gripes I had about the book.
Why I Read this Book: I hadn’t heard of In The Clear until I saw author Elyssa Patrick (not the author of this book) doing a giveaway on Twitter for the book. I checked it out, read the blurb, and knew I wanted to read it, so I entered and won.
What I Liked: The premise caught my attention. I don’t think I’ve ever read a book involving a search and rescue team, which was something different and interesting to read. I especially liked that Fletcher didn’t brag about being a hero, nor did he use it to pick up women. He’s not on the rescue team for fame or status; he does it because he wants to help people.
I love a good friends-to-lovers romance. Fletcher is all around good guy and he happens to be Lexie’s brother’s best friend. He’s friends with Lexie, and vice versa, but Fletcher has more than friend feelings for Lexie.
What I Didn’t Like: The transition from friends to lovers wasn't smooth; it was a bit jittery. The line of communication kept getting interrupted and there were misunderstandings.
Something I found odd was that all of a sudden, Lexie was in Fletcher’s bathroom. Did she have a key to his place? Did he leave the door unlocked? He didn't seem surprised that she was standing there, in his bathroom, as he was taking a shower.
Overall Impression: In the Clear was a fast and enjoyable read, even with the gripes I had about the book.
March 17, 2014
Slick‘s review posted on Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
4.5 STARS
Review copy provided for an honest review
I really love authors who consistently surprise me with their work; they are able to write very different types of story while sticking within the contemporary genre. Their books aren’t cookie cutter and they always give you an excellent product. Tamara Morgan is one of those authors, with each book she takes new risks and covers new territory and in her latest, In the Clear, she begins a new series that’s bound to be entertaining if the characters in this first book are any indication.
Fletcher Owens is a cautious guy; after the death of his father he just found it hard to take risks. But for the last several years he’s been keeping a secret from his family and friends but now exposed he’s having to answer questions he never intended to answer and deal with his best friend’s sister who won’t let it go. Trouble is he wants to grab hold of her and never let her go but it’s a risk he’s not sure he can take.
Lexie Sinclair has wanted to be more than a friend to Fletcher for years but she knows he sees her as the quirky sister of his best friend. When his secret is exposed she plans to show him that there’s more to her than the screw up everyone thinks she is. She just doesn’t know if she’s willing to put herself out there if he doesn’t feel the same way.
I adore these two and even more when they are together. The fact that they both seem more in each other than they see in themselves makes this story all the more sweet. When they do finally confront their feelings it is reckless, steam, wet, and damn hot!
This is one of those books where the story is more about self discovery and confronting feelings that have been simmering for years. There is no big blow up just a small confrontation that leads to the both getting more than they ever expected. I really loved these characters, their journey, and the fact that they were able to communicate and work through their issues together. In The Clear is another remarkable love story and a fantastic start to a new series, I can’t wait to see what Tamara has in store for us next!
4.5 STARS
Review copy provided for an honest review
I really love authors who consistently surprise me with their work; they are able to write very different types of story while sticking within the contemporary genre. Their books aren’t cookie cutter and they always give you an excellent product. Tamara Morgan is one of those authors, with each book she takes new risks and covers new territory and in her latest, In the Clear, she begins a new series that’s bound to be entertaining if the characters in this first book are any indication.
Fletcher Owens is a cautious guy; after the death of his father he just found it hard to take risks. But for the last several years he’s been keeping a secret from his family and friends but now exposed he’s having to answer questions he never intended to answer and deal with his best friend’s sister who won’t let it go. Trouble is he wants to grab hold of her and never let her go but it’s a risk he’s not sure he can take.
Lexie Sinclair has wanted to be more than a friend to Fletcher for years but she knows he sees her as the quirky sister of his best friend. When his secret is exposed she plans to show him that there’s more to her than the screw up everyone thinks she is. She just doesn’t know if she’s willing to put herself out there if he doesn’t feel the same way.
I adore these two and even more when they are together. The fact that they both seem more in each other than they see in themselves makes this story all the more sweet. When they do finally confront their feelings it is reckless, steam, wet, and damn hot!
This is one of those books where the story is more about self discovery and confronting feelings that have been simmering for years. There is no big blow up just a small confrontation that leads to the both getting more than they ever expected. I really loved these characters, their journey, and the fact that they were able to communicate and work through their issues together. In The Clear is another remarkable love story and a fantastic start to a new series, I can’t wait to see what Tamara has in store for us next!
February 26, 2015
This was a perfect read for being snowbound. It's fun and quirky and most of the time, it really works.
The story centers on three friends who have been together for years. Sean and Lexie Sinclair are twins, and Fletcher Owens is Sean's best friend who ended up being befriended by both. It's obvious from the beginning that he has had a secret crush on Lexie for quite some time.
The story starts with the usual friends-joking-around kind of stuff, but Morgan does a good job of showing something deeper and maybe a little less comfortable between Lexie and Fletcher. Fletcher is earnest and a little on the endearingly nerdy side, while Lexie is outgoing and ditzy. So, what makes things start to change? Well, Lexie comments for quite a while about Fletcher's "secret life." It turns out that Fletcher's secret is that he volunteers for a search and rescue team.
I'll admit that I initially thought it was kind of lame that Fletcher kept this such a huge secret, but as we get to know him better and get to know some of his doubts and neuroses, it made a little more sense. Likewise, I initially got annoyed with Lexie because the earlier portions of the book somewhat overplay what I think is supposed to be likable goofiness on her part and gets a little too close to gratingly airheaded. That also works itself out as the story goes along.
And what we get by the end is a fun and slightly offbeat read about a couple of people trying to find their way. Definitely worth a read.
The story centers on three friends who have been together for years. Sean and Lexie Sinclair are twins, and Fletcher Owens is Sean's best friend who ended up being befriended by both. It's obvious from the beginning that he has had a secret crush on Lexie for quite some time.
The story starts with the usual friends-joking-around kind of stuff, but Morgan does a good job of showing something deeper and maybe a little less comfortable between Lexie and Fletcher. Fletcher is earnest and a little on the endearingly nerdy side, while Lexie is outgoing and ditzy. So, what makes things start to change? Well, Lexie comments for quite a while about Fletcher's "secret life." It turns out that Fletcher's secret is that he volunteers for a search and rescue team.
I'll admit that I initially thought it was kind of lame that Fletcher kept this such a huge secret, but as we get to know him better and get to know some of his doubts and neuroses, it made a little more sense. Likewise, I initially got annoyed with Lexie because the earlier portions of the book somewhat overplay what I think is supposed to be likable goofiness on her part and gets a little too close to gratingly airheaded. That also works itself out as the story goes along.
And what we get by the end is a fun and slightly offbeat read about a couple of people trying to find their way. Definitely worth a read.
November 11, 2024
I was really excited about this one. It sounded absolutely sweet story. I like from friends to lovers stories, but it wasn't done very well here.
The beginning was promising and I was waiting for adorable but instead I got awkward. The transition from friends to lovers was very odd and felt rushed. I think Fletcher was (mostly) fantastic but Lexie was intolerable. She was everything I don't want a heroine to be, needy, pushy, ditzy and self-deprecating. Her jerk twin brother didn't really help with his belittling remarks. I was putting up with her until the SAR mission which made actively dislike her.
This should have been a full length novel instead of novella to be a truly enjoyable read. Now it felt undeveloped.
The beginning was promising and I was waiting for adorable but instead I got awkward. The transition from friends to lovers was very odd and felt rushed. I think Fletcher was (mostly) fantastic but Lexie was intolerable. She was everything I don't want a heroine to be, needy, pushy, ditzy and self-deprecating. Her jerk twin brother didn't really help with his belittling remarks. I was putting up with her until the SAR mission which made actively dislike her.
This should have been a full length novel instead of novella to be a truly enjoyable read. Now it felt undeveloped.
May 1, 2017
In the Clear started out cute but went downhill shortly after.
At 90 pages I didn't expect major character development or even a substantial plot, but I did expect some consistency. Instead, personalities, motivations and conversations were all over the place - it got so bad that I kept thinking I was somehow skipping pages by accident.
As for the ending, it was very rushed and I didn't feel it was a satisfying HEA.
This would have been 4 stars with an epilogue set in the future.
At 90 pages I didn't expect major character development or even a substantial plot, but I did expect some consistency. Instead, personalities, motivations and conversations were all over the place - it got so bad that I kept thinking I was somehow skipping pages by accident.
As for the ending, it was very rushed and I didn't feel it was a satisfying HEA.
This would have been 4 stars with an epilogue set in the future.
January 13, 2016
4 Stars
I bought In the Clear after hearing about it on the DBSA podcast and knew it was the perfect read for a cold Sunday afternoon. The story focuses on twins, Lexie and Sean, and their lifelong friend, Fletcher. Fletcher is hiding two big things from his friends: 1) he has a secret life as a member of a Search and Rescue team and 2) he has a huge crush on Lexie. Things get complicated when Lexie finds out the truth about what Fletcher does on his time off and she starts to rethink her friendship/relationship with him.
I thought this book was just adorable! It involves some of my favorite themes in romance and handles them with care. I loved reading about how much Fletcher cared for Lexie yet he had a legitimate reason to be hesitant to try anything romantically with her. I thought the evolution of Lexie's feelings for Fletcher to be realistic and well-written since it is obvious from the beginning that there is some tension there.
Fletcher is one of my favorite types of heroes: shy, a bit on the nerdy side, and super sweet. I applaud the author for showing that a beta hero can still take charge and still retain his genuine nature. Lexie, at first, seemed like she would be the stereotypical quirky pixie heroine, but it is quickly shown that there is much more to her than just being cute and wacky. I especially enjoyed reading the scenes where she gets frustrated with the way everyone expects her to screw up in an adorable rather than taking her seriously.
In the Clear is a little on the short side (page length-wise), but I think the novella format works well for the plot. I would have liked a few more pages of resolution though that won't keep me from recommending and re-reading this book again.
I bought In the Clear after hearing about it on the DBSA podcast and knew it was the perfect read for a cold Sunday afternoon. The story focuses on twins, Lexie and Sean, and their lifelong friend, Fletcher. Fletcher is hiding two big things from his friends: 1) he has a secret life as a member of a Search and Rescue team and 2) he has a huge crush on Lexie. Things get complicated when Lexie finds out the truth about what Fletcher does on his time off and she starts to rethink her friendship/relationship with him.
I thought this book was just adorable! It involves some of my favorite themes in romance and handles them with care. I loved reading about how much Fletcher cared for Lexie yet he had a legitimate reason to be hesitant to try anything romantically with her. I thought the evolution of Lexie's feelings for Fletcher to be realistic and well-written since it is obvious from the beginning that there is some tension there.
Fletcher is one of my favorite types of heroes: shy, a bit on the nerdy side, and super sweet. I applaud the author for showing that a beta hero can still take charge and still retain his genuine nature. Lexie, at first, seemed like she would be the stereotypical quirky pixie heroine, but it is quickly shown that there is much more to her than just being cute and wacky. I especially enjoyed reading the scenes where she gets frustrated with the way everyone expects her to screw up in an adorable rather than taking her seriously.
In the Clear is a little on the short side (page length-wise), but I think the novella format works well for the plot. I would have liked a few more pages of resolution though that won't keep me from recommending and re-reading this book again.
October 17, 2013
Expected Publication Date: 11/11/13
Full review can be found at On Top Down Under Book Reviews.
M/F romance is not my genre of choice these days. In fact, I can't remember the last time I read a book of this genre. I saw the blurb of this one and decided to give it a shot. I'm really glad I did. It's a very good story.
Fletcher is in love with his best friend's sister, Lexie. He keeps this to himself as he is extremely shy and is also terrified of not just rejection, but of losing the friendship with Sean, Lexie's brother. Lexie is loud and flamboyant and doesn't have a shy bone in her body. Eventually, Fletcher's feelings come out in the open and Lexie must decide if she's willing to give a relationship a shot or stay in the friend zone.
Overall, a nice story. The only reason it is not getting 5 stars instead of 4 is because I wasn't that big on Lexie's reactions a couple of times. Otherwise, a great story. I look forward to reading the next in the series.
This book was provided by Net Gally in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Full review can be found at On Top Down Under Book Reviews.
M/F romance is not my genre of choice these days. In fact, I can't remember the last time I read a book of this genre. I saw the blurb of this one and decided to give it a shot. I'm really glad I did. It's a very good story.
Fletcher is in love with his best friend's sister, Lexie. He keeps this to himself as he is extremely shy and is also terrified of not just rejection, but of losing the friendship with Sean, Lexie's brother. Lexie is loud and flamboyant and doesn't have a shy bone in her body. Eventually, Fletcher's feelings come out in the open and Lexie must decide if she's willing to give a relationship a shot or stay in the friend zone.
Overall, a nice story. The only reason it is not getting 5 stars instead of 4 is because I wasn't that big on Lexie's reactions a couple of times. Otherwise, a great story. I look forward to reading the next in the series.
This book was provided by Net Gally in exchange for a fair and honest review.
November 26, 2025
In The Clear is the perfect example of best friends discovering true love in each other.
Lexie Sinclair pretty much has no verbal filters, she thinks and says it as it is. She is a genuine, fun, caring person that has taken the brunt of many criticism for her easy going spirit. The only thing she's kept a secret is her attraction for Fletcher Owens.
Fletcher Owens is kind of uptight, careful and a planner. He will never pursue his best friends sister because he'd never take the risk.
This all changes the day the story breaks about Fletcher's heroic actions in his secret life as a Search and Rescue volunteer.
Although Fletcher and Lexie dance around their chemistry for most of the book, when they do come together its very spicy...all that pent up sexual frustrations pretty much explodes. In the Clear is a quick, easy, fun, and steamy read...a utterly wonderful Happily Ever After read.
I received this ARC copy of In the Clear from Tamara Morgan in exchange for an honest review. This book is set for publication November 11, 2013.
Lexie Sinclair pretty much has no verbal filters, she thinks and says it as it is. She is a genuine, fun, caring person that has taken the brunt of many criticism for her easy going spirit. The only thing she's kept a secret is her attraction for Fletcher Owens.
Fletcher Owens is kind of uptight, careful and a planner. He will never pursue his best friends sister because he'd never take the risk.
This all changes the day the story breaks about Fletcher's heroic actions in his secret life as a Search and Rescue volunteer.
Although Fletcher and Lexie dance around their chemistry for most of the book, when they do come together its very spicy...all that pent up sexual frustrations pretty much explodes. In the Clear is a quick, easy, fun, and steamy read...a utterly wonderful Happily Ever After read.
I received this ARC copy of In the Clear from Tamara Morgan in exchange for an honest review. This book is set for publication November 11, 2013.
December 31, 2014
It was okay. Lexie really annoyed me; take some personal responsibility and stop crying about everything. Fletcher was likable, the kind of hero you're rooting for but something was missing. Their relationship was pretty odd. They've been friends their whole life yet she is in a fight with her brother in her head over being friends with him. Then there's the unrequited love. And a SAR Lexie had no business butting into is what brings them together?? More irritated me but contains spoilers so I'll just leave it alone.
I think this story had more potential if it was a full length book and their relationship was given more time to go from friends to lovers.
I think this story had more potential if it was a full length book and their relationship was given more time to go from friends to lovers.
August 21, 2016
Liked it except for last two chapters.. It was an okay story, great beginning and middle.
It's the story of Lexie and Fletcher, best friends turned lovers(at the very last two chapters)..
Lexie is a clumsy(became so because of circumstances,i.e,five minutes elder twin brother Sean always directing her),yet becomes strong nearing the end. Fletcher always puts people ahead oh himself,so selfless that he volunteers in a rescue team.
The writing was clumsy toward the end, as if the author just wanted to finish the book instead of enjoying writing a better end. It could have done with a couple of chapter's.
Anyways, 3 stars out of 5! :)
It's the story of Lexie and Fletcher, best friends turned lovers(at the very last two chapters)..
Lexie is a clumsy(became so because of circumstances,i.e,five minutes elder twin brother Sean always directing her),yet becomes strong nearing the end. Fletcher always puts people ahead oh himself,so selfless that he volunteers in a rescue team.
The writing was clumsy toward the end, as if the author just wanted to finish the book instead of enjoying writing a better end. It could have done with a couple of chapter's.
Anyways, 3 stars out of 5! :)
December 9, 2013
This is an endearing sexy read with a great quirky heroine and an introvert hero. It is a wonderful friends to lovers romance with lovely depth and passion in a small space. No one is rich. The love is real and achey and each character grows. Got to love it! A great Christmas novella.
December 12, 2013
I don't get all this love for the heroine. She was needy, silly, pushy, invasive all at the same time. I wanted Fletcher to leave her (and her entire crazy family) and find someone who would give him some room to breathe. I just can't stand people like her.
November 6, 2013
Hi all...my review is up!
http://www.nocturnereads.com/2013/11/...
http://www.nocturnereads.com/2013/11/...
April 18, 2025
loved it!
December 8, 2022
Lexie has always been seen as the flighty little sister of Sean. Sean is Fletcher’s best friend and the only one that just doesn’t see Lexie that way. Fletcher as a secret that is exposed when a picture is printed in the paper – he is part of the search and rescue team. He really enjoys being part of the team and is very good at it. Lexie has loved Fletcher for as long as she can remember but seems to put her foot in her mouth when she is around him. Unknown to Lexie, Fletcher is in love with Lexie but is too shy to do anything about it. Through a series of events Lexie ends up on a search and rescue mission with Fletcher and the team. All of this closeness brings things to the surface. A nice read and curious what comes next.
February 10, 2016
Opened Wattpad and under featured books was "In The Clear" by Tamara Morgan. It's a short, quick 12 chapter story. It's written so cleverly, so vividly, that I can't get over that it was only 12 chapters and a 1-2 hour read.
The opening sentence sucks you in, "For a full twenty seconds, Lexie thought the vibrator in her purse had somehow managed to turn itself on. Again."
It's not full on erotica as the first sentence suggests, but that first love scene, definite hot.
It follows Lexie, is the personable, funny, all out there, fundraiser for children's charity, quirky heroine. However, her self-esteem seems to have taken a beat down from her twin's not-so-subtle condescending comments -- which she manages to hide with her bubbly personality. Being the ever-positive person that she is, she's constantly wanting to hang out with him and his best friend (whereas, I would've said F*!@ him and move on). His best friend, Fletcher, has been in love with Lexie since forever. Fletcher is the quiet, seemingly boring car salesman who has a secret superhero side that doesn't want anyone to know about (he goes on search and rescue missions to save missing/endangered people). He likes predictability and patterns...wakes up the same time, has the exact same routine every day, unless he gets a call for a search and rescue mission.
Then Bam! things happen that moves them closer together, she realizes that she doesn't know him as well, he's forced to fess up, etc. It's a short story, so quick, but yet, it's not insta-love. After all, they've known each other forever. So it's a cute coming together story - like the ending of a romance book -- you know, the best part where they're finally getting their acts together and all you do is *sigh* and feel good.
The opening sentence sucks you in, "For a full twenty seconds, Lexie thought the vibrator in her purse had somehow managed to turn itself on. Again."
It's not full on erotica as the first sentence suggests, but that first love scene, definite hot.
It follows Lexie, is the personable, funny, all out there, fundraiser for children's charity, quirky heroine. However, her self-esteem seems to have taken a beat down from her twin's not-so-subtle condescending comments -- which she manages to hide with her bubbly personality. Being the ever-positive person that she is, she's constantly wanting to hang out with him and his best friend (whereas, I would've said F*!@ him and move on). His best friend, Fletcher, has been in love with Lexie since forever. Fletcher is the quiet, seemingly boring car salesman who has a secret superhero side that doesn't want anyone to know about (he goes on search and rescue missions to save missing/endangered people). He likes predictability and patterns...wakes up the same time, has the exact same routine every day, unless he gets a call for a search and rescue mission.
Then Bam! things happen that moves them closer together, she realizes that she doesn't know him as well, he's forced to fess up, etc. It's a short story, so quick, but yet, it's not insta-love. After all, they've known each other forever. So it's a cute coming together story - like the ending of a romance book -- you know, the best part where they're finally getting their acts together and all you do is *sigh* and feel good.
December 31, 2013
3.75 stars
Poor Fletcher has had feelings for Lexie since he noticed she was all grown up. But her being his best friend's sister and feeling unworthy of her has kept him from making a move. However, Lexie is tired of waiting for Fletcher to make a move and once and for all she's going to find out if there can be something between them. What she was not expecting was to find out that he has been keeping things from her.
I liked this story. Although it was short and it dragged a bit in the middle of it, I found myself intrigued by Fletcher and enjoying how flustered he became whenever Lexie was near him. The story flowed nicely, with funny moments and serious, emotional ones too.
I enjoyed Fletcher and Lexie's rapport and watching as the friendship they had finally became something more. Fletcher's secrets weren't over the top, but made him more interesting and complex in a way. I liked that he managed to surprise Lexie even after all the years they had known each other. I liked Lexie too. She was direct, funny and completely determined to get to Fletcher. I admired her tenacity because that man was stubborn!
Of course, they had chemistry abound. That first kiss alone was scorching hot and it only got better as their emotion truly came into play.
All in all, a surprisingly great friends to lovers story.
*I received this title from the publisher in exchange of my honest opinion.
Poor Fletcher has had feelings for Lexie since he noticed she was all grown up. But her being his best friend's sister and feeling unworthy of her has kept him from making a move. However, Lexie is tired of waiting for Fletcher to make a move and once and for all she's going to find out if there can be something between them. What she was not expecting was to find out that he has been keeping things from her.
I liked this story. Although it was short and it dragged a bit in the middle of it, I found myself intrigued by Fletcher and enjoying how flustered he became whenever Lexie was near him. The story flowed nicely, with funny moments and serious, emotional ones too.
I enjoyed Fletcher and Lexie's rapport and watching as the friendship they had finally became something more. Fletcher's secrets weren't over the top, but made him more interesting and complex in a way. I liked that he managed to surprise Lexie even after all the years they had known each other. I liked Lexie too. She was direct, funny and completely determined to get to Fletcher. I admired her tenacity because that man was stubborn!
Of course, they had chemistry abound. That first kiss alone was scorching hot and it only got better as their emotion truly came into play.
All in all, a surprisingly great friends to lovers story.
*I received this title from the publisher in exchange of my honest opinion.
October 20, 2015
Synopsis: "Fletcher Owens is full of secrets.
Few people know he spends his nights volunteering for a Search and Rescue team, saving lives while risking his own. Even fewer know he’s in love with his best friend’s sister. And since he’s not willing to give up their friendship for a chance at something more, that’s exactly how things will stay.
Lexie Sinclair has nothing to hide.
The zany daughter, the wacky sister, the quirky fundraiser for a children’s charity — Lexie couldn’t hide her true self even if she wanted to. So when her brother’s best friend is revealed to be a local hero, she’s determined to stand up and prove she’s ready to be more than just friends."
My Review: This book started out pretty good with some unique and quirky characters and an interesting storyline, unfortunately things just didn't work out. The narration and even the dialogue was jerky and the personalities of the characters started jumping all over the place, one minute flirting the next infuriated but no clue as to why that jump was made. I definitely didn't feel the connection between the characters and found the conclusion to be a bit uncomfortable because you knew where it was going but the emotions involved didn't really jive with the story. It was just all a little too bizarre and all over the place for me.
Few people know he spends his nights volunteering for a Search and Rescue team, saving lives while risking his own. Even fewer know he’s in love with his best friend’s sister. And since he’s not willing to give up their friendship for a chance at something more, that’s exactly how things will stay.
Lexie Sinclair has nothing to hide.
The zany daughter, the wacky sister, the quirky fundraiser for a children’s charity — Lexie couldn’t hide her true self even if she wanted to. So when her brother’s best friend is revealed to be a local hero, she’s determined to stand up and prove she’s ready to be more than just friends."
My Review: This book started out pretty good with some unique and quirky characters and an interesting storyline, unfortunately things just didn't work out. The narration and even the dialogue was jerky and the personalities of the characters started jumping all over the place, one minute flirting the next infuriated but no clue as to why that jump was made. I definitely didn't feel the connection between the characters and found the conclusion to be a bit uncomfortable because you knew where it was going but the emotions involved didn't really jive with the story. It was just all a little too bizarre and all over the place for me.
August 9, 2016
3.5 Stars
This is a great novella that packs a nice little punch. I love friends-to-lovers stories especially when there's a bit of unrequited love on the part of a stiff, slightly OCD hero.
The build up of tension is really well done and the novella zooms along at a nice clip. The ending is a bit abrupt but I find that pretty typical in novellas. I'm just glad the author didn't skimp on the emotion, humor and tension in the first 90% of the story.
If you're looking for a quick and quirky read, this is is.
This is a great novella that packs a nice little punch. I love friends-to-lovers stories especially when there's a bit of unrequited love on the part of a stiff, slightly OCD hero.
The build up of tension is really well done and the novella zooms along at a nice clip. The ending is a bit abrupt but I find that pretty typical in novellas. I'm just glad the author didn't skimp on the emotion, humor and tension in the first 90% of the story.
If you're looking for a quick and quirky read, this is is.
November 24, 2013
4 stars
The story was sweet and a quick read.
What I liked.
1. Lexie. She's optimistic, happy, adorable, cute and clumsy.
2. Fletcher. He's humble, very kind, love to help people, shy, and secretive.
3. It's a holiday book.
What I disliked.
The story was too short, it affected everything including the romance. It could have been better though.
......
The cover was breathtaking! Enough said.
Recommended.
The story was sweet and a quick read.
What I liked.
1. Lexie. She's optimistic, happy, adorable, cute and clumsy.
2. Fletcher. He's humble, very kind, love to help people, shy, and secretive.
3. It's a holiday book.
What I disliked.
The story was too short, it affected everything including the romance. It could have been better though.
......
The cover was breathtaking! Enough said.
Recommended.
November 4, 2014
The two main characters and the secondary character are all annoying in their own way. They all seem to have issues. But the main characters are adorable enough that you can't even stay annoyed. The secondary character can kiss my ass.
Sweet little novella to kill some time with. It could have been a pretty good full length novel if fleshed out with more scenes and some drama. I liked it.
Sweet little novella to kill some time with. It could have been a pretty good full length novel if fleshed out with more scenes and some drama. I liked it.
May 5, 2016
This was a really cute story about an extrovert and an introvert. I really liked Fletcher and the books built up some nice tension as the couple goes from being friends to more, . This story needed to be longer.
October 7, 2013
I got to read it and loved the characters! I'm hoping (and will probably bug) for Sean to get a story....
I thought the SAR was well done in the book and appreciated that it was integral to the plot.
I thought the SAR was well done in the book and appreciated that it was integral to the plot.
December 12, 2013
So cute! Beta hero and clumsy heroine, quick and fun read ;)
July 5, 2016
I thought this was a fun, quick read, but the relationship was not very well played out and just seemed unrealistic to me. However, I still liked it overall and enjoyed it while reading.
March 12, 2015
Friends becoming lovers always makes for a good story
September 24, 2021
The truth is, this book is objectively flawed, but I still adore it anyway.
Let me start with all the things I loved:
- The writing style. Hoooooooooollly shit, did I love the prose. I have to be fair and admit that it has less to do with the story itself and everything to do with the author but damn I really love the way she writes. She is so concise with her word choice and her tone always lands really well.
- The dialogue. Or, an extension of the above point. I won't say that the main characters had the spiciest banter I've ever read or anything like that, but their dialogue was well-said and very believable.
- The subversion of tropes. Specifically, the brother's best friend trope, which I love when it's executed well. And when I say it's executed well here, boy do I mean it. I love that the conflict has nothing to do with the FMC's brother being possessive over her (which is gross and antiquated anyway), and instead about his protectiveness of his friend. It's refreshing and believable and again, so well-executed.
- Fletcher. Enough said.
- Lexie. I can't say I always loved or agreed with her, but Morgan did an excellent job of writing her character. For such a limited word count, I was pretty surprised with the development!
-Slow burn. This is a matter of preference, but I love a slow burn romance, it really adds to the pay off when the characters finally get together.
Unfortunately, what I didn't love about this book, as hinted at above, was how short it was. The resolution felt rushed. I also think the characters/relationships could've been expanded upon had the author written this as a novel instead, but ultimately, it was still so cute. I love this book and I've read it so many times!
Let me start with all the things I loved:
- The writing style. Hoooooooooollly shit, did I love the prose. I have to be fair and admit that it has less to do with the story itself and everything to do with the author but damn I really love the way she writes. She is so concise with her word choice and her tone always lands really well.
- The dialogue. Or, an extension of the above point. I won't say that the main characters had the spiciest banter I've ever read or anything like that, but their dialogue was well-said and very believable.
- The subversion of tropes. Specifically, the brother's best friend trope, which I love when it's executed well. And when I say it's executed well here, boy do I mean it. I love that the conflict has nothing to do with the FMC's brother being possessive over her (which is gross and antiquated anyway), and instead about his protectiveness of his friend. It's refreshing and believable and again, so well-executed.
- Fletcher. Enough said.
- Lexie. I can't say I always loved or agreed with her, but Morgan did an excellent job of writing her character. For such a limited word count, I was pretty surprised with the development!
-Slow burn. This is a matter of preference, but I love a slow burn romance, it really adds to the pay off when the characters finally get together.
Unfortunately, what I didn't love about this book, as hinted at above, was how short it was. The resolution felt rushed. I also think the characters/relationships could've been expanded upon had the author written this as a novel instead, but ultimately, it was still so cute. I love this book and I've read it so many times!
April 6, 2019
This was pretty short, therefore rushed and choppy.
Lexie Sinclair has been in love with her twin brother's best friend for years. He's actually a friend of them both, but Lexie doesn't want to lose his friendship, or disappoint her brother, so she's kept quiet.
I'm not sure why she cares so much about her brother - he treats her like a daft twit. Though to be fair, she is.
I couldn't work out if she was supposed to be good at her job or not, if she enjoys her job or not.. this was just confusing AF!
Fletcher Owens has been hiding something - besides his feelings for his best friend's sister Lexie, he's also in the local Search and Rescue.
Once his huge secret is out- eyeroll - and Lexie has to drive him to a rescue, the silly bitch gets all emotional when he says she should leave - yeah dickhead! There's a woman missing, take your whiney ass home before you do something stupid like get yourself knocked out.
Too late.
Idiot just did.
By this part of the story, I hated Lexie. What a spoiled, immature pain in the ass.
The idea of her hanging around and joining the rescue was absurd. The nosy bitch looking in his compass when he'd been very vocal about her NOT opening it, who the hell does she think she is?!
TBH, I skimmed to around the 90% mark, then tossed this aside soon after she let herself into his house and watched him in the shower.
Crap. Not even 1★ worthy.
Lexie Sinclair has been in love with her twin brother's best friend for years. He's actually a friend of them both, but Lexie doesn't want to lose his friendship, or disappoint her brother, so she's kept quiet.
I'm not sure why she cares so much about her brother - he treats her like a daft twit. Though to be fair, she is.
I couldn't work out if she was supposed to be good at her job or not, if she enjoys her job or not.. this was just confusing AF!
Fletcher Owens has been hiding something - besides his feelings for his best friend's sister Lexie, he's also in the local Search and Rescue.
Once his huge secret is out- eyeroll - and Lexie has to drive him to a rescue, the silly bitch gets all emotional when he says she should leave - yeah dickhead! There's a woman missing, take your whiney ass home before you do something stupid like get yourself knocked out.
Too late.
Idiot just did.
By this part of the story, I hated Lexie. What a spoiled, immature pain in the ass.
The idea of her hanging around and joining the rescue was absurd. The nosy bitch looking in his compass when he'd been very vocal about her NOT opening it, who the hell does she think she is?!
TBH, I skimmed to around the 90% mark, then tossed this aside soon after she let herself into his house and watched him in the shower.
Crap. Not even 1★ worthy.
July 3, 2023
- Lexie got on my nerves a fair bit, she has no boundaries or self control (barging in on Fletcher in the shower, peeking into the compass when she knew he didn't want her to).
- Her brother doesn't seem to like her much or think of her highly at all, I get that she's pretty annoying but I can't imagine treating my sibling so contemptuously (given there's no history of her doing anything unforgivable to him).
- Fletcher getting mad/staying silent to cover his insecurity about his feelings for Lexie.
I think the development of the romance was poorly executed, and I wish it had more of a comfy found family-esque vibe.
- Her brother doesn't seem to like her much or think of her highly at all, I get that she's pretty annoying but I can't imagine treating my sibling so contemptuously (given there's no history of her doing anything unforgivable to him).
- Fletcher getting mad/staying silent to cover his insecurity about his feelings for Lexie.
I think the development of the romance was poorly executed, and I wish it had more of a comfy found family-esque vibe.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 27, 2018
I like the “secret life of Fletcher” angle! For six years he’s been doing SAR, you’d think his close friend (Lexie) would have figured it out sooner; however, the way she found out (by accident aka snooping) was sort of endearing. The length was good – it would have gotten annoying if it had gone on much longer - and the SAR parts were believable (a little understated in order to keep the focus on the romance). And the sex scene... at first I was like “really?” but then I started laughing at Lexie’s moxy – and the further transformation of Fletcher.
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