What do you think?
Rate this book
Bombshells #0.5
Before
Good girls finish last? Screw that.
Being a small town girl isn’t so bad. Unless Mom’s the town joke and I’ve spent my entire life shying away from her flamboyance. College in Las Vegas should be so much cooler. But it’s not. Bad things happen. Real bad.
So when my brother Reid offers me an all-expenses paid vacation to Australia for a month, I am so there. Discounting the deadly snakes on the outback cattle station, I should be safe.
Until I meet Jack.
Jack defines bad boy and then some. He’s big, buffed, bronzed, and hotter than any guy I’ve ever met. His sexy Aussie accent makes me melt. And the guy can cook.
But he’s my brother’s new bestie and he lives on the other side of the world. There’s no future for us.
Is there?
Being a small town girl isn’t so bad. Unless Mom’s the town joke and I’ve spent my entire life shying away from her flamboyance. College in Las Vegas should be so much cooler. But it’s not. Bad things happen. Real bad.
So when my brother Reid offers me an all-expenses paid vacation to Australia for a month, I am so there. Discounting the deadly snakes on the outback cattle station, I should be safe.
Until I meet Jack.
Jack defines bad boy and then some. He’s big, buffed, bronzed, and hotter than any guy I’ve ever met. His sexy Aussie accent makes me melt. And the guy can cook.
But he’s my brother’s new bestie and he lives on the other side of the world. There’s no future for us.
Is there?
176 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 11, 2013
134 people are currently reading
1731 people want to read
About the author
Nicola Marsh
414 books1,442 followersUSA TODAY bestselling and award-winning Australian author Nicola Marsh writes page-turning fiction to keep you up all night.
She has published 86 books across genres, including contemporary romance, women's fiction, domestic suspense, and fantasy.
She's a Waldenbooks, Bookscan, Amazon, iBooks and Barnes & Noble bestseller, a 2013 RBY and National Readers' Choice Award winner, and a multiple finalist for many other awards.
She loves chatting on social media!
She has published 86 books across genres, including contemporary romance, women's fiction, domestic suspense, and fantasy.
She's a Waldenbooks, Bookscan, Amazon, iBooks and Barnes & Noble bestseller, a 2013 RBY and National Readers' Choice Award winner, and a multiple finalist for many other awards.
She loves chatting on social media!
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
December 1, 2013
Review posted at: Swept Away By Romance
Story Rating ~ 4 Stars
Hero Rating ~ 5 Stars
Heroine Rating ~ 5 Stars
Romance Rating ~ 4 Stars
Heat Level ~ 3 Stars
Ending ~ 4.5 Stars and to be continued
Overall Rating ~ 5 Stars
OMG! I did not expect to love this quick short story about a first young love and it surprised the heck out of me. I thought the story line was really good, but what really AMAZED me was how much I loved the characters of Jess and Jack.
The beginning tells us about the heroine and it was interesting getting to know her. At 18, Jess is at college and she's very smart. She does not have many friends and has NEVER had a boyfriend. When summer vacation is upon her, her older brother Reid invites her to go on an extended trip to Australia with him.
Jack is a 20 year old drifter, and has been constantly moving around. He is tired of meaningless sex, especially since his last encounter at the annual Onakie B&S Ball, where people consume lots of alcohol and hook up with strangers. He’s been working at the Cooweer Homestead Cattle station as a cook where he is happy for now. When he gets back to work after the ball, he vows to change his ways, and won't hook up with nameless woman anymore.
When Jess and Reid arrive at the cattle station all the people who work there are lined up to meet and greet their guests. From their first glance I could feel the attraction these two had for each other. Jack’s first thoughts are to stay away from her thinking she’s too good for a loser like him. Jess on the other hand, is tired of being miss prim and proper. She decides she wants Jack and goes about trying to get him.
Every time they got together the sexy banter between them just rolled off their tongues. Jack wanted Jess bad, but he kept his distance while Jess did everything she could to get Jack to have sex with her.
When their time together is finally at an end, I found myself crying and not wanting these two to just drift apart. Then I turned the page, the story was over, Jess is going back to America and leaving Jack behind. At this point, I’m crying REALLY hard but also I’m happy, because I just found out that there is another book called BRASH and it’s about the sizzling reunion of Jess and Jack. I IMMEADIATELY ran to my computer and bought BRASH. There is NO WAY I could possibly go another day without finding out what happens next for these two.
I highly recommend this story to those of you who love a heartfelt story of first love. I also want to warn you that if you do read this book and love it as much as I do, that you too will be running to get BRASH, because BEFORE was THAT GOOD!
*A copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review*
Story Rating ~ 4 Stars
Hero Rating ~ 5 Stars
Heroine Rating ~ 5 Stars
Romance Rating ~ 4 Stars
Heat Level ~ 3 Stars
Ending ~ 4.5 Stars and to be continued
Overall Rating ~ 5 Stars
OMG! I did not expect to love this quick short story about a first young love and it surprised the heck out of me. I thought the story line was really good, but what really AMAZED me was how much I loved the characters of Jess and Jack.
The beginning tells us about the heroine and it was interesting getting to know her. At 18, Jess is at college and she's very smart. She does not have many friends and has NEVER had a boyfriend. When summer vacation is upon her, her older brother Reid invites her to go on an extended trip to Australia with him.
Jack is a 20 year old drifter, and has been constantly moving around. He is tired of meaningless sex, especially since his last encounter at the annual Onakie B&S Ball, where people consume lots of alcohol and hook up with strangers. He’s been working at the Cooweer Homestead Cattle station as a cook where he is happy for now. When he gets back to work after the ball, he vows to change his ways, and won't hook up with nameless woman anymore.
When Jess and Reid arrive at the cattle station all the people who work there are lined up to meet and greet their guests. From their first glance I could feel the attraction these two had for each other. Jack’s first thoughts are to stay away from her thinking she’s too good for a loser like him. Jess on the other hand, is tired of being miss prim and proper. She decides she wants Jack and goes about trying to get him.
Every time they got together the sexy banter between them just rolled off their tongues. Jack wanted Jess bad, but he kept his distance while Jess did everything she could to get Jack to have sex with her.
When their time together is finally at an end, I found myself crying and not wanting these two to just drift apart. Then I turned the page, the story was over, Jess is going back to America and leaving Jack behind. At this point, I’m crying REALLY hard but also I’m happy, because I just found out that there is another book called BRASH and it’s about the sizzling reunion of Jess and Jack. I IMMEADIATELY ran to my computer and bought BRASH. There is NO WAY I could possibly go another day without finding out what happens next for these two.
I highly recommend this story to those of you who love a heartfelt story of first love. I also want to warn you that if you do read this book and love it as much as I do, that you too will be running to get BRASH, because BEFORE was THAT GOOD!
*A copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review*
November 13, 2013
LOVED IT!!!!!!
In this book we get to read where it all began this is a prequel starring none other than Jess and Jack and OMG you so need to read this even if you haven't read this series before. It is a MUST people. What a Page Turner I could not put it down.
These are two of the best characters I've read in the contemporary romance series and after reading this I have automatically gone back to Brash and am currently rereading that.
You know when you get a new season on dvd of your favourite show and you just cant watch it until you have seen the whole series in order again. Yeah well this book will make you want to reread it all again.
Even though this is a prequel it really felt like a fresh new start to a new story and it really made the first book at lot more interesting, and filled in a few gaps that didn't need filling but I liked them filled all the same.
Nicola Marsh not only has a unique Australian voice but a completely original ability to tell a simple story with elegance and beauty. She manages to make characters utterly impressive and interesting characters who stand out amongst a great sea of excellent and favourable characters of other novels.
The banter and the sexual tension in this is so thick not even the sharpest knife could cut through it. Utter Brilliance!!!! It felt easy and flowed perfectly.
Jess is so easy to relate to, shes not overly buxom and fake she has a realness to her that just makes you like her.
Jack is like the perfect man I mean he cooks (wish he would come cook for me) hes drop your jaw hot (described as a Chris Hemsworth lookalike and bloody hell if that doesn't get your motor running) and he's Australian, Perfection in an Aussie package completely WANT!!!!!
Together they have an easiness to their relationship even though they were technically not together and constantly at odds. The intimate scenes are friggen HOT!!!!!!
This is a series to look out for; strong characters excellent story telling and some scorchin scenes that'll have you fanning and needing a cool down. I love how each instalment is set within the same time frame of the other stories and we get to meet the characters of the next instalment in these.
Go get Brash the first in the series and the continuing of Jess and Jack's story its well worth it especially if you loved this prequel.
And then You just have to read Reid and Adele's story in the second installment Blush yes go buy it now get the whole series your completely missing out.
Another Hot Aussie is on his way too with Zane a Hot Aussie Rules (Australian Football) player who's interest leads to Chantal Jess and Reid's Cousin.
In this book we get to read where it all began this is a prequel starring none other than Jess and Jack and OMG you so need to read this even if you haven't read this series before. It is a MUST people. What a Page Turner I could not put it down.
These are two of the best characters I've read in the contemporary romance series and after reading this I have automatically gone back to Brash and am currently rereading that.
You know when you get a new season on dvd of your favourite show and you just cant watch it until you have seen the whole series in order again. Yeah well this book will make you want to reread it all again.
Even though this is a prequel it really felt like a fresh new start to a new story and it really made the first book at lot more interesting, and filled in a few gaps that didn't need filling but I liked them filled all the same.
Nicola Marsh not only has a unique Australian voice but a completely original ability to tell a simple story with elegance and beauty. She manages to make characters utterly impressive and interesting characters who stand out amongst a great sea of excellent and favourable characters of other novels.
The banter and the sexual tension in this is so thick not even the sharpest knife could cut through it. Utter Brilliance!!!! It felt easy and flowed perfectly.
Jess is so easy to relate to, shes not overly buxom and fake she has a realness to her that just makes you like her.
Jack is like the perfect man I mean he cooks (wish he would come cook for me) hes drop your jaw hot (described as a Chris Hemsworth lookalike and bloody hell if that doesn't get your motor running) and he's Australian, Perfection in an Aussie package completely WANT!!!!!
Together they have an easiness to their relationship even though they were technically not together and constantly at odds. The intimate scenes are friggen HOT!!!!!!
This is a series to look out for; strong characters excellent story telling and some scorchin scenes that'll have you fanning and needing a cool down. I love how each instalment is set within the same time frame of the other stories and we get to meet the characters of the next instalment in these.
Go get Brash the first in the series and the continuing of Jess and Jack's story its well worth it especially if you loved this prequel.
And then You just have to read Reid and Adele's story in the second installment Blush yes go buy it now get the whole series your completely missing out.
Another Hot Aussie is on his way too with Zane a Hot Aussie Rules (Australian Football) player who's interest leads to Chantal Jess and Reid's Cousin.
November 16, 2013
If you have not yet read Brash by Nicola Marsh you are in some seriously awesome luck ! The author has written the prequel to where it all began and given me as reader a even more in depth look into the life of Jess and Jack and just how strong the bond is that they formed years ago.
The read tells of Jess and how many years ago she travelled to Australia and met hotter than hot Jack! He throws her off her feet but not only is her brothers best friend and we all know that is no no as far as rules amongst the men go, but she is also only visiting and when the time comes to return home will he let her go or will he?
I normally do not find many prequel reads that truly give me that extra glimpse into the before and usually I walk away with very little new info, the author made sure to give me everything I wanted and tied it in perfectly with the main book Brash.
The simmering hot new young lovers meet heat in this read was sensationally written. The backdrop settings of gorgeous Australia were stunning depicted and blended so well with the heat between the main characters.
The dialogue was as always can be expected from this author SUPER AMAZING! I highly recommend this read for all fans of romance with a sweet, sexy and fresh new look at how it all began and ended before it began all over again !
Thank you Nicola for letting me into the lives of J&J TWICE !
5/5 star review
" Getting into his arms is easy, remaining there is the hard part"
The read tells of Jess and how many years ago she travelled to Australia and met hotter than hot Jack! He throws her off her feet but not only is her brothers best friend and we all know that is no no as far as rules amongst the men go, but she is also only visiting and when the time comes to return home will he let her go or will he?
I normally do not find many prequel reads that truly give me that extra glimpse into the before and usually I walk away with very little new info, the author made sure to give me everything I wanted and tied it in perfectly with the main book Brash.
The simmering hot new young lovers meet heat in this read was sensationally written. The backdrop settings of gorgeous Australia were stunning depicted and blended so well with the heat between the main characters.
The dialogue was as always can be expected from this author SUPER AMAZING! I highly recommend this read for all fans of romance with a sweet, sexy and fresh new look at how it all began and ended before it began all over again !
Thank you Nicola for letting me into the lives of J&J TWICE !
5/5 star review
" Getting into his arms is easy, remaining there is the hard part"
February 2, 2023
Before by Nicola Marsh
This book was SIZZLING, just wow! The sexual tension from the start between Jess and Jack was felt right to the end. Their goodbye was sad but I look forward to reading the 2nd book in the series, Brash.
This book was SIZZLING, just wow! The sexual tension from the start between Jess and Jack was felt right to the end. Their goodbye was sad but I look forward to reading the 2nd book in the series, Brash.
Read
September 7, 2020Have you downloaded your FREE copy?
AMAZON: http://amzn.to/1IPvjXp
iBOOKS: http://apple.co/1DfNkfz
KOBO: http://bit.ly/1eImwsr
B&N NOOK: http://bit.ly/RliFGi
AMAZON: http://amzn.to/1IPvjXp
iBOOKS: http://apple.co/1DfNkfz
KOBO: http://bit.ly/1eImwsr
B&N NOOK: http://bit.ly/RliFGi
November 20, 2014
It's official... I'm addicted to Nicola Marsh's writing!
Before is the prequel to Brash , the first book in the Bombshell series and it tells the story of how Jess and Jack meet. I always like reading prequels first if I have the chance, so it was great that I found this book first. I devoured it in a couple of hours and then rushed to buy Brash , despite my dwindling bank account.
I love books that grab a hold of my emotions and take them on a rollercoaster ride. This book had me desperate to see what would happen next. The sexual tension was unbearable and the emotional games played had my heart pounding and my body vibrating. Marsh really articulates the chemistry between Jess and Jack, it’s so tangible I wasn’t sure where their emotions began and mine ended. She takes you into the outback and makes you love these two characters, I wanted them to let go and be together so badly.
I’m so happy that I read this one first because I got to experience the journey of their relationship from the start. And once it all ended I just hand to have the conclusion to their love story… hence my hasty depletion of my bank account. I started Brash almost immediately after finishing this book, and I can’t wait to see where it all goes.
Before is the prequel to Brash , the first book in the Bombshell series and it tells the story of how Jess and Jack meet. I always like reading prequels first if I have the chance, so it was great that I found this book first. I devoured it in a couple of hours and then rushed to buy Brash , despite my dwindling bank account.
I love books that grab a hold of my emotions and take them on a rollercoaster ride. This book had me desperate to see what would happen next. The sexual tension was unbearable and the emotional games played had my heart pounding and my body vibrating. Marsh really articulates the chemistry between Jess and Jack, it’s so tangible I wasn’t sure where their emotions began and mine ended. She takes you into the outback and makes you love these two characters, I wanted them to let go and be together so badly.
I’m so happy that I read this one first because I got to experience the journey of their relationship from the start. And once it all ended I just hand to have the conclusion to their love story… hence my hasty depletion of my bank account. I started Brash almost immediately after finishing this book, and I can’t wait to see where it all goes.
January 23, 2019
DNF. Wasn't aware this was a series and don't want to get into a story that never finishes.
December 2, 2013
After spending her first year in college at the University of Las Vegas, Jess Harper is still the good girl who doesn't do anything wrong and is still a virgin. She's spent most of her time studying instead of going to parties, so when she decides to go to an end of the semester party at the last minute and meets up with her study buddy Dave there, she isn't too concerned, that is until things get out of hand. Afterwards, desperate to get away from Dave and not have to spend the summer with her mother, her brother Reid saves the day by inviting her to go to Australia with him on a business trip, all expenses paid, and spend a month in the Australian Outback. Jess couldn't be happier, especially when she lays eyes on one of the hottest guys she's ever seen, Jack McVeigh. Jack is the 20-year-old cook at Cooweer Homestead Cattle Station and fits the bad boy image perfectly. In fact, Jess can't take her eyes off him, and the feeling is mutual, but Jack knows this is one girl he needs to stay away from.
"Jack defines bad boy and then some. He's big, buffed, bronzed, and hotter than any guy I've ever met. His sexy Aussie accent makes me melt. And the guy can cook."
The chemistry between Jack and Jess is electrifying and after an interesting encounter the first night there, it is multiplied tenfold. Jess, normally shy, is anything but with Jack, and the banter between them is filled with sass, sexual innuendos, and promises of fun.
".....but it seemed like some great, screwed up cosmic sign. That the first time I'd ever felt like jumping a guy, he was an outback cook with a bad attitude.....Jack did look like Chris Hemsworth. A lot. Dark hair. Startling green-blue eyes. Requisite stubble. Tall. Tanned. Broad-shouldered. Bad boy to the bone. Damn. Bad analogy. I couldn't think about bone and Jack in the same sentence without squirming. When he'd spoken in that deep, gravely voice and touched my hand? I'd felt like...like...stripping off and climbing all over him."
Despite the innuendos, chemistry, and obviously mutual attraction, Jack is determined not to cross the line with Jess, thinking she deserves better, and better is definitely not him - an attitude that is the remnant of a scarred and painful childhood. Not to mention he's become friends with her brother Reid, who is helping him out with his future career. Nevertheless, Jess is determined to get him to notice her and do more than just look. Besides, he brought out a side of her she'd never experienced before.
"There was something about that cocky, insufferable Aussie that rubbed me up the wrong way. He brought out something in me I'd never thought I possessed. My inner smartass."
As the story progresses, Nicola Marsh provides a very interesting and entertaining story for her readers with the ensuing relationship and things that transpire between Jack and Jess over the next four weeks. Jack's determined to stick to his guns and Jess is determined to pull that gun out of its holster and turn the safety off.
"I'm going to miss you," I blurted, instantly regretting my impulsive declaration when his smile faded....."You don't even know me," he said, his tone devoid of emotion...."I know you well enough," I said...I went for broke. "I know what you look like naked." Heat flared in his expressive eyes as the backpack slipped from his hands to land at his feet. "Don't go there." ....."Why not?" I tapped my bottom lip pretending to think. "Though I do seem to have an unfair advantage. Because I've seen you naked and you haven't seen me." He groaned. "You don't play fair."
....."And you don't play at all."
As the book comes to an end, Jess lays it all on the line, but Jack has to decide what he's going to do with the feelings he's had brewing underneath the surface over the last four weeks. Will he be honest with her, or will he let Jess go? Before is a really good short read, 160 pages, that is packed with fun, romance that sizzles, a hot Aussie, and a great story. I really enjoyed it and I can't wait to read the conclusion of Jess and Jack's story in Brash, which is available now....Yeah!!! I love not having to wait. The third book in the series, Blush, is also available and is Reid's story, Jess' brother. I really enjoyed Before, the first book in the Burlesque Bombshells series and I can't wait to read more from this author.
"Jack defines bad boy and then some. He's big, buffed, bronzed, and hotter than any guy I've ever met. His sexy Aussie accent makes me melt. And the guy can cook."
The chemistry between Jack and Jess is electrifying and after an interesting encounter the first night there, it is multiplied tenfold. Jess, normally shy, is anything but with Jack, and the banter between them is filled with sass, sexual innuendos, and promises of fun.
".....but it seemed like some great, screwed up cosmic sign. That the first time I'd ever felt like jumping a guy, he was an outback cook with a bad attitude.....Jack did look like Chris Hemsworth. A lot. Dark hair. Startling green-blue eyes. Requisite stubble. Tall. Tanned. Broad-shouldered. Bad boy to the bone. Damn. Bad analogy. I couldn't think about bone and Jack in the same sentence without squirming. When he'd spoken in that deep, gravely voice and touched my hand? I'd felt like...like...stripping off and climbing all over him."
Despite the innuendos, chemistry, and obviously mutual attraction, Jack is determined not to cross the line with Jess, thinking she deserves better, and better is definitely not him - an attitude that is the remnant of a scarred and painful childhood. Not to mention he's become friends with her brother Reid, who is helping him out with his future career. Nevertheless, Jess is determined to get him to notice her and do more than just look. Besides, he brought out a side of her she'd never experienced before.
"There was something about that cocky, insufferable Aussie that rubbed me up the wrong way. He brought out something in me I'd never thought I possessed. My inner smartass."
As the story progresses, Nicola Marsh provides a very interesting and entertaining story for her readers with the ensuing relationship and things that transpire between Jack and Jess over the next four weeks. Jack's determined to stick to his guns and Jess is determined to pull that gun out of its holster and turn the safety off.
"I'm going to miss you," I blurted, instantly regretting my impulsive declaration when his smile faded....."You don't even know me," he said, his tone devoid of emotion...."I know you well enough," I said...I went for broke. "I know what you look like naked." Heat flared in his expressive eyes as the backpack slipped from his hands to land at his feet. "Don't go there." ....."Why not?" I tapped my bottom lip pretending to think. "Though I do seem to have an unfair advantage. Because I've seen you naked and you haven't seen me." He groaned. "You don't play fair."
....."And you don't play at all."
As the book comes to an end, Jess lays it all on the line, but Jack has to decide what he's going to do with the feelings he's had brewing underneath the surface over the last four weeks. Will he be honest with her, or will he let Jess go? Before is a really good short read, 160 pages, that is packed with fun, romance that sizzles, a hot Aussie, and a great story. I really enjoyed it and I can't wait to read the conclusion of Jess and Jack's story in Brash, which is available now....Yeah!!! I love not having to wait. The third book in the series, Blush, is also available and is Reid's story, Jess' brother. I really enjoyed Before, the first book in the Burlesque Bombshells series and I can't wait to read more from this author.
February 11, 2014
******4.5 stars*****
Wow, okay so this was an awesome little surprise for me! I read the synopsis for Before awhile back and thought to myself this would be a cute quick read without a lot of emotional punch, but boy was I wrong. Somehow, Nicola Marsh and her captivating characters sucked me into this story and wrapped me up in the sexual tension and beginnings of something so much deeper, and I didn't want it to let go. Jack, the gorgeous epitome of everything that drives women wild about bad boy Aussies, made my heart race at every turn with his cocky confidence hiding the hurt boy underneath. And Jess, with her determination and sass that kept him guessing and lusting after her had me laughing and wanting to high five the girl as she tried to bring him to his knees!
As a whole, this was a pretty simple story. Simple girl meets bad boy with a wall around his heart. But there was so much more behind these characters, and when they got together it was magic. Jess was tired of always wanting something bigger and better but never finding it, and she was tired of being a "V" card carrying member. College wasn't the new adventure she thought it would be, but maybe flying off to the Australian outback with her brother on a whim would be. Was she ever right, because loner Jack, who'd learned the hard way he'd always be forgettable, turned her world upside down. Being the cook and catering to snooty visitors wasn't something he ever saw himself doing, but he slowly discovered there was more than meets the eye when it came to Jess. From their first meeting to every little glance and touch, there was this electric jolt that passed between them and just made me melt!
With all of the would-be passion between them, Jack was determined to keep his distance when it came to Jess. If it wasn't his own feelings of unworthiness stopping him, it was his job security or, eventually, Jess' brother Reid who'd become a dear friend to him, that kept Jack pushing her away. It was a torturous push and pull, with Jess growing ever more frustrated that Jack wouldn't give in to his clear desire for her. I felt for this girl, because honestly it was painful to see them get so close but always end up tattered. I didn't realize going in that this was a prequel to Jess and Jack's story, so when it abruptly ended with a heart-wrenching cliffhanger, my jaw dropped and I ran to amazon to grab up Brash. Seriously, have it on standby because this prequel leaves you hanging BIG TIME. Having torn through the next book in a matter of a few hours, I can say the entirety of Jess and Jack's story is an emotional, smoking-hot, highly entertaining read and definitely worth curling up to, and I can't wait to read Reid's story Blush very soon!
Quotes:
In two semesters I'd attended three frat parties, had drunk two vodkas, one rum and a watered down Long Island Iced Tea. And the only other bed I'd graced besides my own belonged to my roommate's dog, illegally smuggled in whenever she could. Yeah, chalk up permanent virginity status alongside geek. Embarrassing. ~p. 5
But it seemed like some great, screwed up, cosmic sign. That the first time I'd ever felt like jumping a guy, he was an outback cook with a bad attitude. ~p. 26
He laughed. "So what're you going to dare me to do today?"
"Last night wasn't a dare," I said, sounding like a sulky kid. "You're just an exhibitionist."
His naughty grin alerted me to the fact he'd always win in any war of words we had. "When I had such a captive audience, do you blame me?" ~p. 34
But none of that mattered to her and that's what humbled me the most; that she saw past my tough outer shell and believed in the real me. ~p. 85
Find this and more of my reviews at:
http://www.autumnreview.com/search/la...
Wow, okay so this was an awesome little surprise for me! I read the synopsis for Before awhile back and thought to myself this would be a cute quick read without a lot of emotional punch, but boy was I wrong. Somehow, Nicola Marsh and her captivating characters sucked me into this story and wrapped me up in the sexual tension and beginnings of something so much deeper, and I didn't want it to let go. Jack, the gorgeous epitome of everything that drives women wild about bad boy Aussies, made my heart race at every turn with his cocky confidence hiding the hurt boy underneath. And Jess, with her determination and sass that kept him guessing and lusting after her had me laughing and wanting to high five the girl as she tried to bring him to his knees!
As a whole, this was a pretty simple story. Simple girl meets bad boy with a wall around his heart. But there was so much more behind these characters, and when they got together it was magic. Jess was tired of always wanting something bigger and better but never finding it, and she was tired of being a "V" card carrying member. College wasn't the new adventure she thought it would be, but maybe flying off to the Australian outback with her brother on a whim would be. Was she ever right, because loner Jack, who'd learned the hard way he'd always be forgettable, turned her world upside down. Being the cook and catering to snooty visitors wasn't something he ever saw himself doing, but he slowly discovered there was more than meets the eye when it came to Jess. From their first meeting to every little glance and touch, there was this electric jolt that passed between them and just made me melt!
With all of the would-be passion between them, Jack was determined to keep his distance when it came to Jess. If it wasn't his own feelings of unworthiness stopping him, it was his job security or, eventually, Jess' brother Reid who'd become a dear friend to him, that kept Jack pushing her away. It was a torturous push and pull, with Jess growing ever more frustrated that Jack wouldn't give in to his clear desire for her. I felt for this girl, because honestly it was painful to see them get so close but always end up tattered. I didn't realize going in that this was a prequel to Jess and Jack's story, so when it abruptly ended with a heart-wrenching cliffhanger, my jaw dropped and I ran to amazon to grab up Brash. Seriously, have it on standby because this prequel leaves you hanging BIG TIME. Having torn through the next book in a matter of a few hours, I can say the entirety of Jess and Jack's story is an emotional, smoking-hot, highly entertaining read and definitely worth curling up to, and I can't wait to read Reid's story Blush very soon!
Quotes:
In two semesters I'd attended three frat parties, had drunk two vodkas, one rum and a watered down Long Island Iced Tea. And the only other bed I'd graced besides my own belonged to my roommate's dog, illegally smuggled in whenever she could. Yeah, chalk up permanent virginity status alongside geek. Embarrassing. ~p. 5
But it seemed like some great, screwed up, cosmic sign. That the first time I'd ever felt like jumping a guy, he was an outback cook with a bad attitude. ~p. 26
He laughed. "So what're you going to dare me to do today?"
"Last night wasn't a dare," I said, sounding like a sulky kid. "You're just an exhibitionist."
His naughty grin alerted me to the fact he'd always win in any war of words we had. "When I had such a captive audience, do you blame me?" ~p. 34
But none of that mattered to her and that's what humbled me the most; that she saw past my tough outer shell and believed in the real me. ~p. 85
Find this and more of my reviews at:
http://www.autumnreview.com/search/la...
January 3, 2024
I think this book was a great easy read! I am definitely buying the second book.
October 16, 2020
Jess has always been the perfect daughter, perfect student, perfect...everything. So perfect that it's boring as hell, and she knows it's time to break out of her risk-free life. Thinking it's time to cut loose a little, she accepts an invitation to a party, never suspecting her friend's ulterior motives. What happens has her second-guessing everything, doubting herself, and in dire need of an escape. So when her brother offers a vacation in the Australian outback, who is she to say no?
Jack is the epitome of the loner bad boy with a heart of gold. He's slept his way across the east coast, finally lucking into a ranch hand slash cook job, where he doesn't intend to stay long. It's just another stop on the endless road he hasn't quite figured out yet. Tired of having no direction and nothing but empty sex, he's longing for everything the ranch's newly arrived guests have to offer. Instant chemistry.
Unfortunately, Jack is all about doing the right thing, and Jess isn't making it easy on him. They only have a few weeks together before she flies back to the other side of the world, and their foreplay in the form of verbal sparring has him wound up tight. It doesn't help that Reid, Jess's older brother, implicitly trusts Jack to take care of her. And when he offers Jack a chance at a career, a chance to finally make something of himself? As tempting as Jess is, Jack just can't bring himself to betray Reid that way.
I wish I'd known this book was part of a series when I'd started it. I thought I was going to get the whole story in one sitting, and with an author as accomplished as this one, I knew it'd be good...better than good. Without giving anything away, I do want to say this: count on getting the next book in the series immediately. While Before is a great read, you're going to want the whole story, and that won't happen unless you spring for Brash.
Awesome read! Really, it's exactly what short romance novels should be. There's incredible chemistry from the get-go, and both the main characters have enough depth that you'll be instantly rooting for both of them -- not to mention anxiously waiting for them to finally combust! While the setting for the story is mostly in Australia, I didn't feel like the author was hurling Aussie-isms at me, and I had no trouble falling for the conflicted couple. Long story short, I'm off to read the next book before the anticipation kills me!
*I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Jack is the epitome of the loner bad boy with a heart of gold. He's slept his way across the east coast, finally lucking into a ranch hand slash cook job, where he doesn't intend to stay long. It's just another stop on the endless road he hasn't quite figured out yet. Tired of having no direction and nothing but empty sex, he's longing for everything the ranch's newly arrived guests have to offer. Instant chemistry.
Unfortunately, Jack is all about doing the right thing, and Jess isn't making it easy on him. They only have a few weeks together before she flies back to the other side of the world, and their foreplay in the form of verbal sparring has him wound up tight. It doesn't help that Reid, Jess's older brother, implicitly trusts Jack to take care of her. And when he offers Jack a chance at a career, a chance to finally make something of himself? As tempting as Jess is, Jack just can't bring himself to betray Reid that way.
I wish I'd known this book was part of a series when I'd started it. I thought I was going to get the whole story in one sitting, and with an author as accomplished as this one, I knew it'd be good...better than good. Without giving anything away, I do want to say this: count on getting the next book in the series immediately. While Before is a great read, you're going to want the whole story, and that won't happen unless you spring for Brash.
Awesome read! Really, it's exactly what short romance novels should be. There's incredible chemistry from the get-go, and both the main characters have enough depth that you'll be instantly rooting for both of them -- not to mention anxiously waiting for them to finally combust! While the setting for the story is mostly in Australia, I didn't feel like the author was hurling Aussie-isms at me, and I had no trouble falling for the conflicted couple. Long story short, I'm off to read the next book before the anticipation kills me!
*I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
December 3, 2013
This short novel (or really long novella?) is a prequel to Brash, the Burlesque Bombshells series. Having not read Brash yet (released February 2013) I can only review this very objectively, so other bloggers or readers who’ve read Brash will think differently.
Jess Harper is invited by her older brother, Reid, on a business trip; a full month in Australia’s Outback. Not that any other person in whatever situation will decline such an opportunity, this comes at just the right for Jess, who’s just the night before had an unpleasant encounter. To say the least. And so she meets Jack.
Jack is a recently settled down (for now) drifter who is a cook’s apprentice at the outback ranch Jess is visiting with her brother. He is gorgeous, despite his recent past – honorable, and determined to make something of his life. Having to depend only on himself he has no other choice but to stick to his guns and hold back from his attraction to Jess.
I’d like to address Jess first. Finally, a heroine who’s not helpless. That incident I mentioned? She really surprised me with her actions and reactions. She decides what she wants to change and goes for it, a lot like Jack. She changes from a shy, demure and quiet, a good girl – to a little more brazen, going after what (or who!) she wants. Yet she manages to maintain who she truly is.
Jack, who has been homeless, for all intents and purposes, after bouncing between foster homes for most of his life, is determined to change his behavior, change his life around and make a good future for himself. He is a little brash, full of surprises (mostly to himself) and as mentioned before – honorable.
I enjoyed the plot, the originality of the twists the storyline is taking, but wish there was a little more depth to the subjective stories of the characters. To somehow give more volume to their emotions and actions.
This little novel is very well written, flows well and the ending leaves a taste for more. So for me, there will be more.
This review and others can be found on The Book Hammock!
Jess Harper is invited by her older brother, Reid, on a business trip; a full month in Australia’s Outback. Not that any other person in whatever situation will decline such an opportunity, this comes at just the right for Jess, who’s just the night before had an unpleasant encounter. To say the least. And so she meets Jack.
Jack is a recently settled down (for now) drifter who is a cook’s apprentice at the outback ranch Jess is visiting with her brother. He is gorgeous, despite his recent past – honorable, and determined to make something of his life. Having to depend only on himself he has no other choice but to stick to his guns and hold back from his attraction to Jess.
I’d like to address Jess first. Finally, a heroine who’s not helpless. That incident I mentioned? She really surprised me with her actions and reactions. She decides what she wants to change and goes for it, a lot like Jack. She changes from a shy, demure and quiet, a good girl – to a little more brazen, going after what (or who!) she wants. Yet she manages to maintain who she truly is.
Jack, who has been homeless, for all intents and purposes, after bouncing between foster homes for most of his life, is determined to change his behavior, change his life around and make a good future for himself. He is a little brash, full of surprises (mostly to himself) and as mentioned before – honorable.
I enjoyed the plot, the originality of the twists the storyline is taking, but wish there was a little more depth to the subjective stories of the characters. To somehow give more volume to their emotions and actions.
This little novel is very well written, flows well and the ending leaves a taste for more. So for me, there will be more.
This review and others can be found on The Book Hammock!
December 4, 2013
Don’t you just love stories that introduce to characters and set the scene for future books in the series. Before is exactly that sort of book, while it is the first book in the series, it has the feel of a prequel. Setting the scene and introducing the characters. Focussing on Jack and Jess, the quintessential good girl, bad boy.
Jess has always shied away from attention in order to be the complete opposite of her brash mother. While Jack is a product of the foster system, never believing himself good enough to dream of a better life. that is until their paths cross when Jess is taken on a business trip with her politician brother to Australia.
Jack is already jaded at 20, while Jess is naive and innocent. While their lives have been very different up to this point both recognise something in the other that draws them at a deep level. While Jack is determined to reform and be the good guy in this situation, Jess is equally determined to sow some wild oats while she is away. neither foresee the connection they share. I loved the interactions between Jack and Jess, some utterly romantic, others a little steamy but always utterly comfortable with the other. Something neither of them have previously experienced.
While I could understand Jack’s reticence to be a holiday fling for Jess, it also broke my heart at his lack of self-worth. The position he holds within the ranch and the belief other people have in him, for the first time in his life, was heart warming to witness. However, it is also one of the factors for keeping his relationship with Jess on a purely platonic level. The toll this takes on Jess’s self-confidence adds another level of emotion to the story.
With every page I was willing Jack to be honest with Jess and ultimately himself regarding his feelings to her. I was so invested in the characters by 50% through the book that I knew I would have to get the second book to continue with Jack and Jess. Their relationship is just that addictive :) Be on the look out for my review of Brash to find out more about Jack and Jess.
Jess has always shied away from attention in order to be the complete opposite of her brash mother. While Jack is a product of the foster system, never believing himself good enough to dream of a better life. that is until their paths cross when Jess is taken on a business trip with her politician brother to Australia.
Jack is already jaded at 20, while Jess is naive and innocent. While their lives have been very different up to this point both recognise something in the other that draws them at a deep level. While Jack is determined to reform and be the good guy in this situation, Jess is equally determined to sow some wild oats while she is away. neither foresee the connection they share. I loved the interactions between Jack and Jess, some utterly romantic, others a little steamy but always utterly comfortable with the other. Something neither of them have previously experienced.
While I could understand Jack’s reticence to be a holiday fling for Jess, it also broke my heart at his lack of self-worth. The position he holds within the ranch and the belief other people have in him, for the first time in his life, was heart warming to witness. However, it is also one of the factors for keeping his relationship with Jess on a purely platonic level. The toll this takes on Jess’s self-confidence adds another level of emotion to the story.
With every page I was willing Jack to be honest with Jess and ultimately himself regarding his feelings to her. I was so invested in the characters by 50% through the book that I knew I would have to get the second book to continue with Jack and Jess. Their relationship is just that addictive :) Be on the look out for my review of Brash to find out more about Jack and Jess.
December 11, 2013
Nicola has written the prequel to here book BRASH --to show where it all began for Jess and Jack. Go back 10 years in the lives of Jess and Jack and see just how strong the bond is. So read this one first or if you have read BRASH already -- this is a great read so that you can see how their relationship was formed and what happened while Jess was vacationing in Australia! I personally have not read BRASH so the characters were completely fresh to me.
Nicola has a unique Australian voice and she tells a love story that has some great banter and the sexual tension in this is so thick not even the sharpest knife could cut through it.
The story tells of two main characters: Jess and Jack.
Jess -- a quiet , goody two shows who has had a traumatic event happen at college but in perfect timing her older brother, Reid offers to bring her along with him to Australia for the summer where she meets Jack. Jess has vowed to herself to have fun, throw caution to the wind, live a little on the edge. Jess is easy to relate to, she has a realness to her that just makes you like her.
Jack -- has had a tough childhood and has been moving around place to place as an adult. He vows to make a change to his life for the good. Meeting Jess's brother, Reid, might be the thing that helps him change his life but where will Jess fit into all of this? I gotta say Jack drove me a little crazy the way he pushed Jess away -- I hope they actually get together in BRASH - so I am looking forward to that relationship going forward :-) Because when Jack isn't worried about not letting things go somewhere their relationship has an easiness and realness that works well.
Go get Brash the first in the series and the continue forward with Jess and Jack's story! I really came to like Reid, the little we saw of him in this book then you can move on to read Reid and Adele's story in the second book, Blush!
I recommend this read for all fans of romance with a sweet, sexy and fresh new look at how it all began and ended before it began all over again !
Nicola has a unique Australian voice and she tells a love story that has some great banter and the sexual tension in this is so thick not even the sharpest knife could cut through it.
The story tells of two main characters: Jess and Jack.
Jess -- a quiet , goody two shows who has had a traumatic event happen at college but in perfect timing her older brother, Reid offers to bring her along with him to Australia for the summer where she meets Jack. Jess has vowed to herself to have fun, throw caution to the wind, live a little on the edge. Jess is easy to relate to, she has a realness to her that just makes you like her.
Jack -- has had a tough childhood and has been moving around place to place as an adult. He vows to make a change to his life for the good. Meeting Jess's brother, Reid, might be the thing that helps him change his life but where will Jess fit into all of this? I gotta say Jack drove me a little crazy the way he pushed Jess away -- I hope they actually get together in BRASH - so I am looking forward to that relationship going forward :-) Because when Jack isn't worried about not letting things go somewhere their relationship has an easiness and realness that works well.
Go get Brash the first in the series and the continue forward with Jess and Jack's story! I really came to like Reid, the little we saw of him in this book then you can move on to read Reid and Adele's story in the second book, Blush!
I recommend this read for all fans of romance with a sweet, sexy and fresh new look at how it all began and ended before it began all over again !
December 8, 2013
Find this review and more at
kimberlyfaye reads
.
Jess is sick and tired of being a good girl. Single, geek, virgin, she decides this summer is a perfect time to make a change. Have a fling with a hot man. Cash in her V-card. When her brother Reid invites her for a month-long, all-expenses paid trip to Australia, she jumps at the chance. Upon arriving in Australia, she meets sexy, bad boy chef Jack, who makes her feel like being bad. Really bad.
Jack is sick of having meaningless flings. He doesn't want to be that guy anymore. When gorgeous, American Jess shows up at the cattle station where he works, he feels a spark, immediately. But, he also believes he's not good enough for her. He hides his feelings and tries his best to reign in his attraction to her, regardless of how frequently she flirts and throws herself at him. She has a bright future and he is a loser. He refuses to drag her down. But, they're damn near combustible when together and that's a pull that's difficult to resist.
This novella was short and sweet – and had just enough sexy to make it interesting. Told from both Jess' and Jack's POV, the reader gets a really good sense of each character, their background and motivation, and their true feelings. I know this was supposed to be Jess' book, but while I liked her, Jack stole the show for me. He absolutely charmed me. There was something vulnerable about him that I connected with strongly. Before was a total tease. I mean that in a good way, though. It gave a great introduction to the characters. I enjoyed it so much I immediately went to Amazon, bought Brash and devoured it, too. I needed more Jack and Jess in my life.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Jess is sick and tired of being a good girl. Single, geek, virgin, she decides this summer is a perfect time to make a change. Have a fling with a hot man. Cash in her V-card. When her brother Reid invites her for a month-long, all-expenses paid trip to Australia, she jumps at the chance. Upon arriving in Australia, she meets sexy, bad boy chef Jack, who makes her feel like being bad. Really bad.
Jack is sick of having meaningless flings. He doesn't want to be that guy anymore. When gorgeous, American Jess shows up at the cattle station where he works, he feels a spark, immediately. But, he also believes he's not good enough for her. He hides his feelings and tries his best to reign in his attraction to her, regardless of how frequently she flirts and throws herself at him. She has a bright future and he is a loser. He refuses to drag her down. But, they're damn near combustible when together and that's a pull that's difficult to resist.
This novella was short and sweet – and had just enough sexy to make it interesting. Told from both Jess' and Jack's POV, the reader gets a really good sense of each character, their background and motivation, and their true feelings. I know this was supposed to be Jess' book, but while I liked her, Jack stole the show for me. He absolutely charmed me. There was something vulnerable about him that I connected with strongly. Before was a total tease. I mean that in a good way, though. It gave a great introduction to the characters. I enjoyed it so much I immediately went to Amazon, bought Brash and devoured it, too. I needed more Jack and Jess in my life.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
December 9, 2013
Review Originally Posted at: Book Freak
She’s a good, naïve , shy and smart girl who lives a boring life and yes, did I mention, she’s a virgin? A college virgin in Las Vegas – who would have thought?
After a traumatic event that happened with one of the people she trusted most, she was left devastated. Good thing her brother was just in time to invite her to go with him to Australia and experience the life down under for a couple of weeks. The idea of going away seems to be more palatable than imagining deadly snakes on the outback cattle station. Safe haven, here she comes! Or so she thought until she meets Jack. She finally found a man to hand in her V-card. Now if only he wanted to receive it – her problems would be solved.
A sexy bad boy who can cook – who can resist that?! I know I can’t. Not to mention the Aussie accent he has which just added to the appeal. And did I tell you he looks ALMOST like Chris Hemsworth? Definitely, SWOON!
But he has a dark past, thinks he’s no good for her, her brother is his new best friend, he’s fighting the attraction and not to mention, he’s on other part of the world. How can that totally work for the both of them?
How can he possibly resist the sexual tension and the dangerous chemistry between the two of them? It was there, it was palpable. I guess, he really wanted to change. But he broke her heart, and it was just devastating to watch the rejection.
Nevertheless, this was a short read with a wonderful, sexy cover that had me wanting for the next book in the series – BRASH. I wonder what happens to the both of them after ten years. Would the chemistry still be there? I can’t wait to read their HEA!
★ARC Copy was given in exchange for an honest review.★
She’s a good, naïve , shy and smart girl who lives a boring life and yes, did I mention, she’s a virgin? A college virgin in Las Vegas – who would have thought?
After a traumatic event that happened with one of the people she trusted most, she was left devastated. Good thing her brother was just in time to invite her to go with him to Australia and experience the life down under for a couple of weeks. The idea of going away seems to be more palatable than imagining deadly snakes on the outback cattle station. Safe haven, here she comes! Or so she thought until she meets Jack. She finally found a man to hand in her V-card. Now if only he wanted to receive it – her problems would be solved.
A sexy bad boy who can cook – who can resist that?! I know I can’t. Not to mention the Aussie accent he has which just added to the appeal. And did I tell you he looks ALMOST like Chris Hemsworth? Definitely, SWOON!
But he has a dark past, thinks he’s no good for her, her brother is his new best friend, he’s fighting the attraction and not to mention, he’s on other part of the world. How can that totally work for the both of them?
How can he possibly resist the sexual tension and the dangerous chemistry between the two of them? It was there, it was palpable. I guess, he really wanted to change. But he broke her heart, and it was just devastating to watch the rejection.
Nevertheless, this was a short read with a wonderful, sexy cover that had me wanting for the next book in the series – BRASH. I wonder what happens to the both of them after ten years. Would the chemistry still be there? I can’t wait to read their HEA!
★ARC Copy was given in exchange for an honest review.★
August 21, 2015
Before by Nicola Marsh
Purchased: Kindle - Free
My Rating: 4 of 5 Stars
What it’s all about:
Jess has never seemed to find the right guy, but she sin’t looking. With being in school as a freshman, and the problem of her virginity, boys just didn’t seem like a problem, that would be until Dave. Which is when the knight and shining armor Reid, Jess’s brother steps in. He whisks her off to Australia where we meet Jack. Jess and Jack hit it off, but Jack would never corrupt a young girl like Jess, especially when her brother was helping him out. So what are the two to do when their chemistry is busting at the seam and they have no where else to go?
The Best Parts:
I love a lot about this story. The chemistry was written very well, and that includes that characters. Even though Jess is young I felt like she had a perfect head on her shoulder and knew what she wanted and what she didn’t. Jack was a little all over the place, but that was his character and it worked for him. The story of the good girl falling for the bad boy is so typical, but this gives it a nice twist, especially when the bad boy won’t budge on his stance of not corrupting a young girl.
The Worst Parts:
There wasn’t a lot that I didn’t like about this story, but there were a few things. I didn’t like Dave, and really wondered how important his role was in this story. I felt like his whole story line could have been done without. Then there is Reid’s story. He is Jess’s brother, but we know nothing about him and not really because of author admission, but because of the character. He dodges every question which makes it hard to love Reid when I know nothing! I needed more!
Purchased: Kindle - Free
My Rating: 4 of 5 Stars
What it’s all about:
Jess has never seemed to find the right guy, but she sin’t looking. With being in school as a freshman, and the problem of her virginity, boys just didn’t seem like a problem, that would be until Dave. Which is when the knight and shining armor Reid, Jess’s brother steps in. He whisks her off to Australia where we meet Jack. Jess and Jack hit it off, but Jack would never corrupt a young girl like Jess, especially when her brother was helping him out. So what are the two to do when their chemistry is busting at the seam and they have no where else to go?
The Best Parts:
I love a lot about this story. The chemistry was written very well, and that includes that characters. Even though Jess is young I felt like she had a perfect head on her shoulder and knew what she wanted and what she didn’t. Jack was a little all over the place, but that was his character and it worked for him. The story of the good girl falling for the bad boy is so typical, but this gives it a nice twist, especially when the bad boy won’t budge on his stance of not corrupting a young girl.
The Worst Parts:
There wasn’t a lot that I didn’t like about this story, but there were a few things. I didn’t like Dave, and really wondered how important his role was in this story. I felt like his whole story line could have been done without. Then there is Reid’s story. He is Jess’s brother, but we know nothing about him and not really because of author admission, but because of the character. He dodges every question which makes it hard to love Reid when I know nothing! I needed more!
December 5, 2013
We received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I REALLY enjoyed this book. Apart from a rather graphic, and in my opinion gratuitous, sex scene in the very beginning of the book and the fact that the Australian male protagonist used miles instead of kilometres, it really hit the right buttons for me.
It was hilarious, I was giggling all the way through. The back and forth sexy conversations between Jess and Jack were so clever and sometimes embarrassing, but also very sweet. I laughed and I ultimately cried at the end, with an ending that did not end how these sorts of books usually do. I liked that…a lot. I love surprises and I honestly thought, “Oh here we go…another love story with the same ending.” However, I had to amend that thought. I was really pleased to find a different ending.
Of course, the fact that the story was set in Australia, and North Queensland no less (GO QUEENSLANDER!!!), gave it extra brownie points. The description of the country side was beautiful and not over the top. However, Jack uses a lot of colloquial Aussie-isms and some of them I hadn’t even heard of. There’s only so much even an Aussie can take, but in saying that, I’ve read books with far more and far worse.
Overall, a great read, albeit a fairly short one (I finished it in about 2.5 to 3 hours). Like I said before, not a YA, but if you’re 17 and over then I reckon give it a shot.
You can purchase a copy on Amazon (and a little birdie told me it’s only 99c at the moment, so get in QUICK!)
I REALLY enjoyed this book. Apart from a rather graphic, and in my opinion gratuitous, sex scene in the very beginning of the book and the fact that the Australian male protagonist used miles instead of kilometres, it really hit the right buttons for me.
It was hilarious, I was giggling all the way through. The back and forth sexy conversations between Jess and Jack were so clever and sometimes embarrassing, but also very sweet. I laughed and I ultimately cried at the end, with an ending that did not end how these sorts of books usually do. I liked that…a lot. I love surprises and I honestly thought, “Oh here we go…another love story with the same ending.” However, I had to amend that thought. I was really pleased to find a different ending.
Of course, the fact that the story was set in Australia, and North Queensland no less (GO QUEENSLANDER!!!), gave it extra brownie points. The description of the country side was beautiful and not over the top. However, Jack uses a lot of colloquial Aussie-isms and some of them I hadn’t even heard of. There’s only so much even an Aussie can take, but in saying that, I’ve read books with far more and far worse.
Overall, a great read, albeit a fairly short one (I finished it in about 2.5 to 3 hours). Like I said before, not a YA, but if you’re 17 and over then I reckon give it a shot.
You can purchase a copy on Amazon (and a little birdie told me it’s only 99c at the moment, so get in QUICK!)
December 2, 2013
Everything was going well with the book until the last chapter came and I was waiting for the happily ever after to come. I kept waiting for Jack to admit his feelings but I am still waiting. I got a cliffy and unhappy end with the promise of a second book that would give them their HEA. At least I am assuming they will end together. Even worse the book starts 10 years later. Why not 1 year later, maybe 2? I get that Jack needed to feel worthy of her but I wanted to see them getting through together. It would have been better if the author had written 50 more pages and gave an end to their story than this.
Jess brother, Reid , was a nice character and I can't wait to read his story and hopefully it will be in 1 book only. My heart broke when Jack burned the letter. I hated knowing that Jack wasn't going to reveal his true feelings and give a change to him and Jess to be happy. I saw J & J getting to know each other, getting closer, fighting, lusting after the other and I wanted them together.
Disappointment and sadness would be the best words to describe my feelings for the book.
Jess brother, Reid , was a nice character and I can't wait to read his story and hopefully it will be in 1 book only. My heart broke when Jack burned the letter. I hated knowing that Jack wasn't going to reveal his true feelings and give a change to him and Jess to be happy. I saw J & J getting to know each other, getting closer, fighting, lusting after the other and I wanted them together.
Disappointment and sadness would be the best words to describe my feelings for the book.
December 22, 2013
This was interesting, but I feel like I was missing something. Apparently, this is a prequel to another book that's out about the same two main characters, Jess and Jack. I know there was attraction between them, but Jack refused to make a move on Jess, even though he really, really wanted to. I wanted more from this book than I got. It was frustrating to read, I guess because I identified with Jess just wanting someone to want her for herself. I understand that Jack was showing some restraint because he was older, on the one hand. But I also had the feeling that the restraint was more because of Jess's brother Reid and the opportunity he could get Jack. I was frustrated because I could tell that there were genuine feelings between them, and chances missed are things that one day they could regret. The characters were interesting, and the storyline moved very quickly. I'm interested in reading the other book, Brash, to find out what happens to these two.
I received a copy of this book in return for an honest review.
I received a copy of this book in return for an honest review.
September 2, 2016
BEFORE is a short and sweet new adult romance with just a dash of sexy.
Jess and Jack are a feisty pair. It’s fun to read them spar, share and flirt. Jess’s entertaining, hormone-infused plotting and unabashed behavior is no match for Jack’s frustrating and stubborn choice to be a better man. His newfound chivalry maddens and intensifies Jess’s brazen pursuit. Despite constant thwarting and all around sexual frustration, Jess and Jack do share some tender moments and hotly intense PG-13 encounters worth swooning over.
Fans of Brash will enjoy this prequel revealing in greater depth how Jess and Jack first met 10 years prior. Be warned, this is not a stand alone book ....unless you like your love stories to end abruptly, unrequited and broken-hearted. However, if you have read Brash or intend to do so, then this provides some sassy insight into an infamous couple and their formative romantic history.
ARC courtesy of the author via InkSlinger PR in exchange for an honest review.
Jess and Jack are a feisty pair. It’s fun to read them spar, share and flirt. Jess’s entertaining, hormone-infused plotting and unabashed behavior is no match for Jack’s frustrating and stubborn choice to be a better man. His newfound chivalry maddens and intensifies Jess’s brazen pursuit. Despite constant thwarting and all around sexual frustration, Jess and Jack do share some tender moments and hotly intense PG-13 encounters worth swooning over.
Fans of Brash will enjoy this prequel revealing in greater depth how Jess and Jack first met 10 years prior. Be warned, this is not a stand alone book ....unless you like your love stories to end abruptly, unrequited and broken-hearted. However, if you have read Brash or intend to do so, then this provides some sassy insight into an infamous couple and their formative romantic history.
ARC courtesy of the author via InkSlinger PR in exchange for an honest review.
April 13, 2015
I loved this little prequel...
So the characters were a bit annoying but, they're both kinda young... I don't really get these stories where the fall in love with each other in such a short amount of time, and especially since they don't even have sex, I mean come on!.. but when they conversed and interacted, their back-and-forth was great, I do believe that if given the chance they would make an awesome chicklit couple... so I'm totally looking forward the next one, as it's 10 years ahead (I think?) it should be great to see them a bit more matured and less 'teen crush'...
The writing was good, it comes from alternate POV's throughout the book which I love as you get to know how the other character's are reacting... there is no graphic content but they talk a lot about sex and there are instances of bad language... I'd rate this as a New Adult (18+) book ;)
So the characters were a bit annoying but, they're both kinda young... I don't really get these stories where the fall in love with each other in such a short amount of time, and especially since they don't even have sex, I mean come on!.. but when they conversed and interacted, their back-and-forth was great, I do believe that if given the chance they would make an awesome chicklit couple... so I'm totally looking forward the next one, as it's 10 years ahead (I think?) it should be great to see them a bit more matured and less 'teen crush'...
The writing was good, it comes from alternate POV's throughout the book which I love as you get to know how the other character's are reacting... there is no graphic content but they talk a lot about sex and there are instances of bad language... I'd rate this as a New Adult (18+) book ;)
December 19, 2013
This is a fast read and it is really good. Jess is 18 and about to go to Australia for her summer break with her brother Reid. They spend a month in the outback where they on a farm. They meet Jack, bad boy and sex on a stick. Jess is the ultimate good girl, still a virgin, naive and shy when it comes to being around guys. She seems to be immediately attracted to Jack and the electricity passes through them when they shake hands. Reid and Jack become friends and Jess wants to be more than Jack's friend. Can Jess change his mind and follow his feeling for her? Will she be able to forget if he rejects her? I loved this story and can't wait for more. Great job Nicola Marsh.
September 10, 2016
A quick and fun read about a young and naïve 18 year old Jess who gets the opportunity to spend the summer in the Australian Outback where she encounters a very handsome and somewhat frustrating 20 year old Jack. Jack landed at the station as a drifter, not sure what he wants to do or be with his life. Jess and Jack spend a lot of time together and get to know one another. There is obviously attraction and feelings there but Jack tries to keep his distance. Just when you think things are going good, Jess heads back to America and Jack stays behind. Serious cliffhanger but at least you have the follow-up!
December 2, 2013
Before was a good read, I liked it. It was a quick, one-sitting, fast paced read. I would have liked a little more of it though. It was too short! The plot takes place over a one month setting but there were so many scenes that started days or weeks later than the previous. I really liked the chemistry between the two characters, Jess and Jack. The Aussie setting was great. There were a few teasing steamy scenes that were super hot. Overall, there were some emotional parts of the book, and some steamy ones. I will definitely read the book that comes next in this series, because I need to know what happens with the two!
July 30, 2014
For this being a love story, the things that did not happen are what surprised me and are what made this book a nice change from what is out there to read. The chemistry between Jess and Jack is palpable and it continues to build the more they are around each other until the confrontation at the end of the book. Jack's letter to Jess was heartfelt and I wonder how things would have turned out if he would have given it to Jess. With Reid being gone most of the time, it made me wonder if he was trying to set Jess and Jack up. I'm glad that their story continues on and didn't just end with this book.
March 20, 2014
I have never read Brash but after so many of my fb friends being so excited about Before I figured why not give it ago, and I loved it, Nicola deals with a tough matter and the very start of the book and although the characters are in their early twenties it is easy to identify with them, after reading Before I know I have to read Brash - after all how can I not after getting so drawn in with the characters of Jack and Jess. I cant wait to read Brash. The book is and short and definitely draws the reader in. Brilliant
April 24, 2014
I really enjoyed this book and the story of young love riddled with lots of angst. I didn't know it was a prequel to another book in a series - until I was half-way through...which is a good thing, because the ending wouldn't have been very satisfying if I hadn't found that fact out.
The hero, Jack is very sexy and I happen to think Chris Helmsworth (who he is described as looking like) is very sexy too. I love the verbal wordplay between Jack and Jess.
Off to read "Brash"...hope you enjoy this book too.
The hero, Jack is very sexy and I happen to think Chris Helmsworth (who he is described as looking like) is very sexy too. I love the verbal wordplay between Jack and Jess.
Off to read "Brash"...hope you enjoy this book too.
March 26, 2014
Me channeling Hunch from RockADoodle... "Aggravaaaaaaaation!!!"
Whole lotta sexual frustration goin' on here but its sooo good!
I would have loved this book but they are both too stupid so I only like this book alot... maybe I'll love them 10 years later in the next book when they pick back up again...
Whole lotta sexual frustration goin' on here but its sooo good!
I would have loved this book but they are both too stupid so I only like this book alot... maybe I'll love them 10 years later in the next book when they pick back up again...
April 17, 2014
Great short read, loved the characters just wished it had been longer!
Jess spends a month in the outback when she accompanies her brother on business. Temperatures start to rise as she meets the hot cook Jack and hopes that her trip would be memorable for all the wrong reasons.
The ending was frustrating! Need to read the next book now.
Jess spends a month in the outback when she accompanies her brother on business. Temperatures start to rise as she meets the hot cook Jack and hopes that her trip would be memorable for all the wrong reasons.
The ending was frustrating! Need to read the next book now.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews