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Gateway to Love #1
Three Rivers
"A richly nuanced -- and smolderingly clever -- book about letting love shine in places where the past feels bigger than it needs to be. The cast of side characters range from quirky to mysterious, lending tremendous authenticity and depth to a romantic story that is so much more. A one-click must read!" Julia Kent, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author
"A heartbreaking tale of letting go and learning to love again. A jaw-dropping debut novel you have to read.” - Helena Newbury, New York Times and USA Today Bestselling Author.
How do you start over when you gave everything to one life, one plan, and lost it all?
Althea refuses to allow herself to love again. Imprisoned in grief at twenty-four after her husband’s sudden death, she’s convinced her heart died along with him. She spends her days honoring his memory by clinging to the legal career he helped her to build and to the remaining pieces linking her to their life together.
Griffen’s been running from his past. Despite success as an author and investigative journalist, he’s been traveling through life on autopilot. For a decade, he’s chosen perilous adventures and meaningless sex over the danger of any attachments. When he finally returns home to Pittsburgh, he’s slammed by the awakened memories and regret he’s spent years trying to escape.
A chance encounter brings them together. Their instant desire for each other –and the bond they discover between them – shocks them both. Despite her best efforts, Althea can’t resist Griffen’s charm or his intriguing proposition– if she agrees to a no-strings affair with him for the two weeks he’s in town, he swears he’ll walk away when their time is up. Assured she can test the waters of a new life while keeping her vow never to betray her husband’s memory by opening her heart to another, Althea throws herself into the escape Griffen provides her.
Their perfect plans go awry when the intensity of their connection overwhelms them. Will they risk it all on the chance of something great together…or will the power of their secrets and guilt tear them apart?
"A heartbreaking tale of letting go and learning to love again. A jaw-dropping debut novel you have to read.” - Helena Newbury, New York Times and USA Today Bestselling Author.
How do you start over when you gave everything to one life, one plan, and lost it all?
Althea refuses to allow herself to love again. Imprisoned in grief at twenty-four after her husband’s sudden death, she’s convinced her heart died along with him. She spends her days honoring his memory by clinging to the legal career he helped her to build and to the remaining pieces linking her to their life together.
Griffen’s been running from his past. Despite success as an author and investigative journalist, he’s been traveling through life on autopilot. For a decade, he’s chosen perilous adventures and meaningless sex over the danger of any attachments. When he finally returns home to Pittsburgh, he’s slammed by the awakened memories and regret he’s spent years trying to escape.
A chance encounter brings them together. Their instant desire for each other –and the bond they discover between them – shocks them both. Despite her best efforts, Althea can’t resist Griffen’s charm or his intriguing proposition– if she agrees to a no-strings affair with him for the two weeks he’s in town, he swears he’ll walk away when their time is up. Assured she can test the waters of a new life while keeping her vow never to betray her husband’s memory by opening her heart to another, Althea throws herself into the escape Griffen provides her.
Their perfect plans go awry when the intensity of their connection overwhelms them. Will they risk it all on the chance of something great together…or will the power of their secrets and guilt tear them apart?
367 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 14, 2014
46 people are currently reading
881 people want to read
About the author
Chloe T. Barlow
6 books183 followersChloe is a contemporary romance novelist living in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania with her husband and their sweet puppy. Chloe has always loved writing and cherishes the opportunity to craft her fictional novels and share them with the world.
When Chloe isn’t writing, she spends her time exploring Pittsburgh with her husband and friends. She also enjoys yoga, jogging, and all Pittsburgh sports. She is an avid reader and wrote her debut novel Three Rivers in her spare time. She loves to research every last detail relating to her books. For example, in an effort to bring authenticity to Three River’s treatment of grief and loss, she consulted with a psychologist and grief counselor during its preparation.
When Chloe isn’t writing, she spends her time exploring Pittsburgh with her husband and friends. She also enjoys yoga, jogging, and all Pittsburgh sports. She is an avid reader and wrote her debut novel Three Rivers in her spare time. She loves to research every last detail relating to her books. For example, in an effort to bring authenticity to Three River’s treatment of grief and loss, she consulted with a psychologist and grief counselor during its preparation.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 192 reviews
May 15, 2014
5 Gorgeous Pittsburgh Stars
Three Rivers captivates from the very beginning. Born and bred a Pittsburgh girl, I was so excited to sit down and enjoy this. A love story set in Pittsburg left me intrigued as soon as I learned of it and read the blurb. Without much expectation, Three Rivers took me on a harrowing journey about love; about learning to let go of holding on; about acceptance and rejuvenation. This tale of strength and undying love, both past and new, represents perfectly the trials we experience when dealing with grief and immense hurt.
It's hard to believe Three Rivers is Chloe Barlow's debut novel. The writing flawlessly engages throughout the entire plot. The plot is seemingly simple yet woven complexly together to create intriguing nuances of mystery and loss. The depth of the characters perfectly fits with their growth throughout the story. Both the hero and heroine, Griffen and Althea, are outwardly confident, brave, sexy, and exceedingly charming; making it easy to fall for both of them. Inner monologues provide just the right amount of angst. With secondary characters creating even more depth for the plot, each and every person in the story explores further facets of what it means to love and be loved. I especially loved Althea's two best friends, Aubrey and Jenna, who I was excited to learn are getting their own books. Also, without spoiling anything, Jack Taylor is an awesome character with his untimely demise. We learn so much about the main characters through him. He’s a man I would have loved to understand and know before the events of Three Rivers. A prequel story to this book would be incredible.
Althea experiences an unimaginable tragedy. Griffen wholly guards himself against personal relationships because of an unimaginable upbringing. Since "in Pittsburgh there (are) only two, maybe three, degrees of separation between people" Griffen and Althea soon find themselves wrapped in a whirlwind of a major commonality. Three Rivers journeys the self-discoveries for both of these characters in by such satisfying means for the reader by understanding both together and apart. Chemistry and passion knows no bounds between the two as the reader embarks on an incredibly emotional ride. They’re funny, playful, deep, and soulful and since their story is so brilliantly written we feel each of those emotions.
As a Pittsburgh girl, I'd be remiss not to mention the absolutely amazing setting and culture descriptions, especially those of the rivers. The author’s words are mesmerizing. Each and every Pittsburgh 'ism mentioned in the story jolted a memory for me. We Pittsburgher's are uniquely beautiful breed and Chloe Barlow demonstrates that perfectly. And if you're not from here or never visited it doesn't matter because the city comes alive with Ms. Barlow's stunning and descriptively detailed prose. I'm now a huge fan of this story, this writing, and this truly gifted author. I can’t wait for the second book. Bravo, Ms. Barlow, I’ll think of Three Rivers every time I see a cookie table.
Three Rivers captivates from the very beginning. Born and bred a Pittsburgh girl, I was so excited to sit down and enjoy this. A love story set in Pittsburg left me intrigued as soon as I learned of it and read the blurb. Without much expectation, Three Rivers took me on a harrowing journey about love; about learning to let go of holding on; about acceptance and rejuvenation. This tale of strength and undying love, both past and new, represents perfectly the trials we experience when dealing with grief and immense hurt.
It's hard to believe Three Rivers is Chloe Barlow's debut novel. The writing flawlessly engages throughout the entire plot. The plot is seemingly simple yet woven complexly together to create intriguing nuances of mystery and loss. The depth of the characters perfectly fits with their growth throughout the story. Both the hero and heroine, Griffen and Althea, are outwardly confident, brave, sexy, and exceedingly charming; making it easy to fall for both of them. Inner monologues provide just the right amount of angst. With secondary characters creating even more depth for the plot, each and every person in the story explores further facets of what it means to love and be loved. I especially loved Althea's two best friends, Aubrey and Jenna, who I was excited to learn are getting their own books. Also, without spoiling anything, Jack Taylor is an awesome character with his untimely demise. We learn so much about the main characters through him. He’s a man I would have loved to understand and know before the events of Three Rivers. A prequel story to this book would be incredible.
Althea experiences an unimaginable tragedy. Griffen wholly guards himself against personal relationships because of an unimaginable upbringing. Since "in Pittsburgh there (are) only two, maybe three, degrees of separation between people" Griffen and Althea soon find themselves wrapped in a whirlwind of a major commonality. Three Rivers journeys the self-discoveries for both of these characters in by such satisfying means for the reader by understanding both together and apart. Chemistry and passion knows no bounds between the two as the reader embarks on an incredibly emotional ride. They’re funny, playful, deep, and soulful and since their story is so brilliantly written we feel each of those emotions.
As a Pittsburgh girl, I'd be remiss not to mention the absolutely amazing setting and culture descriptions, especially those of the rivers. The author’s words are mesmerizing. Each and every Pittsburgh 'ism mentioned in the story jolted a memory for me. We Pittsburgher's are uniquely beautiful breed and Chloe Barlow demonstrates that perfectly. And if you're not from here or never visited it doesn't matter because the city comes alive with Ms. Barlow's stunning and descriptively detailed prose. I'm now a huge fan of this story, this writing, and this truly gifted author. I can’t wait for the second book. Bravo, Ms. Barlow, I’ll think of Three Rivers every time I see a cookie table.
August 31, 2016
4.5 stars!
Note: my review may contain some spoilers so keep that in mind.
Note: my review may contain some spoilers so keep that in mind.
April 1, 2014
What do you do when your life is stripped from you one fateful night and you’re left there trying to hold it all together? You take your friends advice and take baby steps back into life!!!
Althea’s…aka Tea… world was shattered when her husband’s car was found in the river after he was working long hours. She always felt so much guilt that she didn’t push him enough to get him to tell her what was wrong. She was after all supposed to be his best friend, too.
After five years of holding it altogether and taking care of her and Jack’s son, Johnny (yep, you read that right, she was preggers at the time of his death), her friends decide it’s time to get Althea laid. So, “operation get Althea back into the dating pool and laid” is put together by her two best friends, Jenna and Aubrey. They take Tea out to find some random man to have no strings attached sex with, but what Tea wasn’t counting on was Griffen. And good Lord did that man passed Go and collected his two hundred dollars when he crashed into Tea.
Though he’d only helped to distract her from her nervousness. Other than that she was hyper-focused—on him: his impossibly aqua blue eyes (seriously, is that even a real eye color?); his broad shoulders; that delicious mouth; the way his slightly shaggy hair grazed his dark brows. Everything about him was hardwired to excite her on every level.
“I like that, baby. I want this pussy and I want you to remember that it’s mine, that right here, right now, it’s mine.” He thrust again and Althea felt his possessive words driving her crazy. “You feel incredible my gorgeous good girl,” he whispered and kissed her tenderly, even as he slammed into her again.
Griffen is back home visiting his mother when he decides to head out for a drink. Being in this town brings back up some old memories that he tries to keep at bay. His worthless dad and his late best friend are two things that he can’t forget. Griffen thinks that his night just got so much better when he over hears three ladies conversation about one of them getting laid. So, being that stunning, hot author that he is, he strolls up to Tea and offers to give her what she needs.
Gorgeous. That was the only word that kept going through his head. The only word he could say about her. He hadn’t wanted any of the other women staring at him from around the bar but this one was another thing altogether. She looked like exactly what he needed to take the edge off his internal shit storm. He had to have her.
They agree to have a good time for the amount of time that Griffen is in town, but what these two don’t realize is that they need each other to help each other heal and get passed the guilt they both have consuming them. This journey will give you loss, acceptance and the power of hope. Not only those, but it will show you how the power of friendship and keep you afloat even when you didn’t know that you were drowning.
The call them the “Three Rivers” but its really two rivers joining together to form the third. One surrendering to the other to become something bigger and much more important. The rivers are not lesser for moving on and joining together, they are broader stronger, and lead to so many more opportunities—as one.
Jenna and Aubrey add so much to the secondary characters in this book. Not only do you feel the pain they have for their best friend, the love they have for her son, but you will find yourself thinking of your best friends the way these two go back and forth with banter and causing Tea to plot their murders a couple times…all in good fun though! Add in two more prospects dying for the attention of Tea, a mother in law not ready to let go, and a hot, nerdy tech guy, I think this characters will keep you on the edge of your favorite spot to read and make your sides hurt from laughing.
Everyone deserves love and to be loved, even when they are tied together in more ways than they think. As the secrets get revealed… I’m so not going to give those away…grab a hold and get ready for this thriller.
Pssst…Jenna’s story is to follow!!!!
April 2, 2014
4.5 Stars
I went into this book blind. I didn’t read the synopsis or reviews so I had no idea what to expect. I’ll admit that I was more than pleasantly surprised. I thought I was getting myself into a Chick Lit, tame romance, based on the cover, but Three Rivers is far from that. It is super spicy with mystery and suspense mixed in.
The prologue really set the tone for the book and I was sucked in immediately. Althea (“Tea”) loses her husband in a freak accident when she’s only 24 years old. We pick up 5 years later, where she is now a practicing Attorney and surrounds herself with work, her 2 best friends, Jenna and Aubry, and her mother-in-law Carol. Carol will not let her forget Jack, which causes Althea to feel a tremendous amount of guilt over his death. She can’t allow herself to date, because she knows she can never love someone like she loved Jack. Plus, Carol still considers her married to her son even though he’s been gone for so many years.
Althea’s friends, Jenna and Aubrey bring a lot of humor to the book. They finally convince Althea to go out one night and meet someone with out thinking about committing to the person. Her one night stand turns out to be Griffen, an investigative journalist who’s books have been turned into blockbuster action films. He’s in town for 2 weeks only to substitute at the local college for his former Journalism professor/mentor as he recovers from heart surgery.
Althea sneaks out after her one night stand, but as it turns out, Althea and Griffen have a surprising connection that brings them back together again. Unable to resist the sexual attraction between each other, they agree to a 2 week secret affair while he’s in town. Their connection makes the sexual relationship slightly taboo and it would definitely not be accepted by some of the people in her life. Althea also thinks that is it’s a secret than it will be easier to let him go, and not become attached, after the 2 weeks because they’ve never made it public. The fact that is was taboo and secret made the relationship so much hotter and sexier. They were burning up the pages over and over again. The sex scenes never fell flat. They just got better and better.
Now let me digress, there was more to the story than just sex ;) The author is very descriptive in her writing and has produced some well developed characters. I really felt a connection with both Althea and Griffen. When they spoke about Jack or reminisced about old times, it definitely brought tears to my eyes, because I felt their pain. I also understood why Althea had all these fears about committing and falling in love again. What they were both feeling was very realistic and true to life.
As I mentioned, there is mystery and suspense within the story but I won’t spoil! You’ll have to read it to find out. I’m very excited to see that Ms. Barlow’s next book centers around Jenna, and I’m eagerly awaiting it’s release. Three Rivers was an amazing debut by Author Chlow Barlow!
An ARC was kindly provided by the Author for an honest review.
Review posted at Love Between the Sheets
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I went into this book blind. I didn’t read the synopsis or reviews so I had no idea what to expect. I’ll admit that I was more than pleasantly surprised. I thought I was getting myself into a Chick Lit, tame romance, based on the cover, but Three Rivers is far from that. It is super spicy with mystery and suspense mixed in.
The prologue really set the tone for the book and I was sucked in immediately. Althea (“Tea”) loses her husband in a freak accident when she’s only 24 years old. We pick up 5 years later, where she is now a practicing Attorney and surrounds herself with work, her 2 best friends, Jenna and Aubry, and her mother-in-law Carol. Carol will not let her forget Jack, which causes Althea to feel a tremendous amount of guilt over his death. She can’t allow herself to date, because she knows she can never love someone like she loved Jack. Plus, Carol still considers her married to her son even though he’s been gone for so many years.
Althea’s friends, Jenna and Aubrey bring a lot of humor to the book. They finally convince Althea to go out one night and meet someone with out thinking about committing to the person. Her one night stand turns out to be Griffen, an investigative journalist who’s books have been turned into blockbuster action films. He’s in town for 2 weeks only to substitute at the local college for his former Journalism professor/mentor as he recovers from heart surgery.
Althea sneaks out after her one night stand, but as it turns out, Althea and Griffen have a surprising connection that brings them back together again. Unable to resist the sexual attraction between each other, they agree to a 2 week secret affair while he’s in town. Their connection makes the sexual relationship slightly taboo and it would definitely not be accepted by some of the people in her life. Althea also thinks that is it’s a secret than it will be easier to let him go, and not become attached, after the 2 weeks because they’ve never made it public. The fact that is was taboo and secret made the relationship so much hotter and sexier. They were burning up the pages over and over again. The sex scenes never fell flat. They just got better and better.
Now let me digress, there was more to the story than just sex ;) The author is very descriptive in her writing and has produced some well developed characters. I really felt a connection with both Althea and Griffen. When they spoke about Jack or reminisced about old times, it definitely brought tears to my eyes, because I felt their pain. I also understood why Althea had all these fears about committing and falling in love again. What they were both feeling was very realistic and true to life.
As I mentioned, there is mystery and suspense within the story but I won’t spoil! You’ll have to read it to find out. I’m very excited to see that Ms. Barlow’s next book centers around Jenna, and I’m eagerly awaiting it’s release. Three Rivers was an amazing debut by Author Chlow Barlow!
An ARC was kindly provided by the Author for an honest review.
Review posted at Love Between the Sheets
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July 3, 2014
Five Solid Stars!!!
I am so glad I read this book. This was provided by a blogger for a review tour and I don’t regret it one bit, even if I am doing this at an insane hour!!! I devoured this book in one day!! It’s that good.
Althea (Tea), a thirty-year-old widow and mother of a five-year-old child, still grieving her husband after almost 6 years; she lives with constant guilt and regrets, unable to move on with her life. She has lovable and pushy friends who finally convince her to go out and “misbehave” at least for one night.
Griffen (funny name by the way) a thirty-one-year-old bestselling author living the big life in New York, who ran away from his hometown to forget his past. Now, he is back for two weeks and he is in for the ride (literally and figuratively) of a lifetime! Out on the town, having a drink sulking at the bar until he eavesdrops a “charming” conversation between three women…
I usually try not to give away plot during my reviews, because I don’t like reading reviews that spoil the whole story, even if it’s “spoiler free” sometimes they just say too much and the I just don’t read the book. Having said that, I can assure this review will provide praise or critique about the book, the writing, characters and plot….. *grins like and idiot* who am I kidding, I can only say I LOVED EVERY SINGLE WORD!!! Yeah! That is constructive…
Truth be told I started reading the book completely blind. I didn’t even read the blurb and thank God I did, because everything was mystery, everything was just new and I loved unwrapping the present word by word. The story was highly predictable… at 20% I knew the ending and… everything else but, that didn’t bother me one bit, it actually made me get into it more and more to prove my theories…
The writing is superb! Amazing prose, just the way a book like this one should be written. I tend to dislike romance books written in third person (hope this is the correct term) going back and forth with characters POV’s (like the omnipresent narrator) due to the fact authors usually have the tendency to drag thoughts about a particular things for pages, and pages. And then, you actually have to read the same thing all over again from both characters and it becomes insanely annoying (hope I am actually explaining myself). With this book, I was never annoyed, didn’t get tired because I couldn’t find any flaws. Characters thoughts were not “overthought” .
I also want to praise the rich vocabulary; Thank you Chloe I highlighted several words for my English repertoire. Metaphors and analogies were abundant but never used excessively and they were beautiful, they just enhanced the reading experience.
Next: THE STORY IS HOT!!! Oh yeah! The sexy-smexy times between Griffen and Tea were smoldering! They had this unbelievable chemistry and although hot they were also endearing, sweet and totally adorable. Their banter, jokes and use of their nicknames was the highlight of the book. I loved Griffen’s sense of humor and the way Tea blossomed to a self-assured sexual being!
Jenna and Aubrey were the best friends ever! Supportive, loyal and completely meddlesome. In the right effin way! I loved both of them and I am so glad to hear they will get their own stories (which I obviously will read).
The suspense part was well delivered, although like I said predictable, but it enhances the book and it plays a very important role as to the way things end up between Tea and Griff. I also need to say that I have a personal scuffle (or pet peeve) with insta-love books, were characters fall in love in a matter of days/week, but here, there was two week window and due to circumstances, well… I bought it… when the author knows how to sell a story, you can’t miss it.
I strongly recommend this book!!!
PS: I would love a novella about Jack and Tea back in college…. Aubrey with Trey… yes please the tattooed, pierced, computer nerd! For her!! And I am awaiting Jenna’s book… that teaser was oooohhhh so interesting
I am so glad I read this book. This was provided by a blogger for a review tour and I don’t regret it one bit, even if I am doing this at an insane hour!!! I devoured this book in one day!! It’s that good.
Althea (Tea), a thirty-year-old widow and mother of a five-year-old child, still grieving her husband after almost 6 years; she lives with constant guilt and regrets, unable to move on with her life. She has lovable and pushy friends who finally convince her to go out and “misbehave” at least for one night.
Griffen (funny name by the way) a thirty-one-year-old bestselling author living the big life in New York, who ran away from his hometown to forget his past. Now, he is back for two weeks and he is in for the ride (literally and figuratively) of a lifetime! Out on the town, having a drink sulking at the bar until he eavesdrops a “charming” conversation between three women…
I usually try not to give away plot during my reviews, because I don’t like reading reviews that spoil the whole story, even if it’s “spoiler free” sometimes they just say too much and the I just don’t read the book. Having said that, I can assure this review will provide praise or critique about the book, the writing, characters and plot….. *grins like and idiot* who am I kidding, I can only say I LOVED EVERY SINGLE WORD!!! Yeah! That is constructive…
Truth be told I started reading the book completely blind. I didn’t even read the blurb and thank God I did, because everything was mystery, everything was just new and I loved unwrapping the present word by word. The story was highly predictable… at 20% I knew the ending and… everything else but, that didn’t bother me one bit, it actually made me get into it more and more to prove my theories…
The writing is superb! Amazing prose, just the way a book like this one should be written. I tend to dislike romance books written in third person (hope this is the correct term) going back and forth with characters POV’s (like the omnipresent narrator) due to the fact authors usually have the tendency to drag thoughts about a particular things for pages, and pages. And then, you actually have to read the same thing all over again from both characters and it becomes insanely annoying (hope I am actually explaining myself). With this book, I was never annoyed, didn’t get tired because I couldn’t find any flaws. Characters thoughts were not “overthought” .
I also want to praise the rich vocabulary; Thank you Chloe I highlighted several words for my English repertoire. Metaphors and analogies were abundant but never used excessively and they were beautiful, they just enhanced the reading experience.
Next: THE STORY IS HOT!!! Oh yeah! The sexy-smexy times between Griffen and Tea were smoldering! They had this unbelievable chemistry and although hot they were also endearing, sweet and totally adorable. Their banter, jokes and use of their nicknames was the highlight of the book. I loved Griffen’s sense of humor and the way Tea blossomed to a self-assured sexual being!
Jenna and Aubrey were the best friends ever! Supportive, loyal and completely meddlesome. In the right effin way! I loved both of them and I am so glad to hear they will get their own stories (which I obviously will read).
The suspense part was well delivered, although like I said predictable, but it enhances the book and it plays a very important role as to the way things end up between Tea and Griff. I also need to say that I have a personal scuffle (or pet peeve) with insta-love books, were characters fall in love in a matter of days/week, but here, there was two week window and due to circumstances, well… I bought it… when the author knows how to sell a story, you can’t miss it.
I strongly recommend this book!!!
PS: I would love a novella about Jack and Tea back in college…. Aubrey with Trey… yes please the tattooed, pierced, computer nerd! For her!! And I am awaiting Jenna’s book… that teaser was oooohhhh so interesting
March 26, 2014
OMG what amazing story....
How do you start over when everything is ripped away from you in an instance. My heart went out to Althea (Tea). Althea was so young to have her world turned upside down. Luckily she had two BFF that were there for her and finally talked her in to a Girls night out.
Griffen is sitting at the bar hoping to get drunk and forgetting why he hated to come back home. Then he see Althea he know that he needs to met her.
Their one night stand end with Tea sneaking out after he falls asleep. Then it all comes crashing down on Tea when Griffen show up the next day to her Sons 5th birthday party.
Can these 2 people heal each others hearts or will everything be stacked against them.
I am looking for to City of Champions her next book in this Series.
How do you start over when everything is ripped away from you in an instance. My heart went out to Althea (Tea). Althea was so young to have her world turned upside down. Luckily she had two BFF that were there for her and finally talked her in to a Girls night out.
Griffen is sitting at the bar hoping to get drunk and forgetting why he hated to come back home. Then he see Althea he know that he needs to met her.
Their one night stand end with Tea sneaking out after he falls asleep. Then it all comes crashing down on Tea when Griffen show up the next day to her Sons 5th birthday party.
Can these 2 people heal each others hearts or will everything be stacked against them.
I am looking for to City of Champions her next book in this Series.
September 2, 2016
This was such a good read, I really didn't want it to stop. When it was over, I wanted more. I felt so bad for Althea, carrying guilt for her husband's death. More so, because her mother in law actually told her that it was. I didn't like her very much throughout the entire book. Carol made Althea feel bad for wanting to move forward with her life, insisting that she was still Jack's wife, not his widow. I absolutely loved what happened all the way through with Althea and Griffen. Originally, Griffen thought one night would be enough.Served him right that she was gone when he woke up. Fate wanted these two together though, because they saw each other again that same day. Turns out Griffen was Jack's childhood best friend. Then Griffen thought he would just pass two weeks with Althea, no commitment, just fun, then it just wasn't enough at all. Griffen hated the hiding, and reached a point where he didn't want to do it anymore. I loved how Griffen evolved from a serial one night stand guy to wanting everything with Althea. I also loved how he was with Johnny, how he reached out to Althea's friends, Jenna more than Aubrey, to help him figure out how to get things moving with Althea. More than that, I was so happy that through his work, he was able to find out the real story of what happened to Jack and who was behind it. There were some scary moments in this, some real heart breaking ones - in good and bad ways too. There was so much more to this book than what I've written here. It was so good, I really wanted to give it more stars than five. The writing drew me in and kept me attached to the story all the way through. I loved the characters, for the most part, and I really can't wait for the second book to come out! I would love more from these characters. Excellent job Chloe, I really enjoyed everything, from the first page to the last.
I was provided a copy of the book in return for an honest review.
I was provided a copy of the book in return for an honest review.
August 13, 2016
I found this story while cruising what my other book loving friends have read(you know who you are), when I spied this book. I thought to my self, well I live in a city with Three Rivers... I should check this out. I was so thrilled to see a book set in the city that I love and was born and bred near.
This wonderful debut novel by Chloe Barlow, takes you on a journey through the grieving process of a widow trying to find her way to exist in life. The story our author weaved for the reader is one of a woman becoming more than a widow and a man finding he's worth more than what his past dictates. (Althea) Tea and Griffen are such strong, bold characters of themselves, but they come alive when they are together. They spark when near each other and their romance is a sexy tale for us to watch unfold. Through this experience with a new man, Tea has to come to grips with the acceptance that she has been mired in guilt and grief all these years. Very poignantly written. The story gives us new beginnings, romance and some mystery.
As a local girl, I was so taken with the descriptive way Ms Barlow has described the city through out the book. It was wonderful to read all the places I am fimiliar with described through out the book. You need not be from here to "enjoy the scenery", it made the story rich with detail any reader can enjoy.
I look forward to Ms Barlows next book, City of Champions, based on Tea's friends( Jenna's book).
Happy Reading~ Sherry
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This wonderful debut novel by Chloe Barlow, takes you on a journey through the grieving process of a widow trying to find her way to exist in life. The story our author weaved for the reader is one of a woman becoming more than a widow and a man finding he's worth more than what his past dictates. (Althea) Tea and Griffen are such strong, bold characters of themselves, but they come alive when they are together. They spark when near each other and their romance is a sexy tale for us to watch unfold. Through this experience with a new man, Tea has to come to grips with the acceptance that she has been mired in guilt and grief all these years. Very poignantly written. The story gives us new beginnings, romance and some mystery.
As a local girl, I was so taken with the descriptive way Ms Barlow has described the city through out the book. It was wonderful to read all the places I am fimiliar with described through out the book. You need not be from here to "enjoy the scenery", it made the story rich with detail any reader can enjoy.
I look forward to Ms Barlows next book, City of Champions, based on Tea's friends( Jenna's book).
Happy Reading~ Sherry
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May 29, 2014
This book was recommended by a fellow book lover and it did not disappoint !!
Thanks to the great writing of Chloe Barlow all sorts of emotions rolled over me throughout my reading sessions... from the sheer sadness I felt during the prologue, to the first meet excitement and hot & steamy moments, to the LOL dialogues and loveable & quirky side characters, to the two absolutely believeable main characters Althea and Griffen who find out they have more in common than meets the eye and help each other in their grieve over a loved one.
Will definitely recommend this book to other book friends and pick up this author's next novel "City of Champions" !!
Thanks to the great writing of Chloe Barlow all sorts of emotions rolled over me throughout my reading sessions... from the sheer sadness I felt during the prologue, to the first meet excitement and hot & steamy moments, to the LOL dialogues and loveable & quirky side characters, to the two absolutely believeable main characters Althea and Griffen who find out they have more in common than meets the eye and help each other in their grieve over a loved one.
Will definitely recommend this book to other book friends and pick up this author's next novel "City of Champions" !!
March 13, 2014
I was fortunate enough to beta-read this book and loved it from the start. I don't think I've ever seen grief--and the difficult love that follows--written so beautifully. There are smoking hot love scenes and some pitch-perfect humor, but the main thing that hit me was the raw emotion. Some of the scenes with Althea's son had me shamelessly welling up. Every character shines through as well-developed and believable and you'll be rooting for the heroine and her fragile chance at happiness all the way. Go pick this up!
May 22, 2014
this story was beautifully written and i couldn't put it down once i had started, it is great to read a different setting for a love story and this story is unique in that way. who wouldn't want a Griffen in their lives? i thought that Chloe was able to portray the feelings of Althea in a way that me as a reader think about losing your loved one so young and how to not feel guilty about moving on with someone else and not consider it cheating. a brilliant read cant wait for the next....
April 4, 2014
I really enjoyed this book and can't believe it's Barlow's first. I love the chemistry between Griffen and Tea and the banter between the girlfriends. It's a different than most romances because it also has some suspense mixed in. Thank goodness there's no cliffhanger! I'll definitely be reading the next books in this series.
March 13, 2014
When I was given the chance to read this book a couple of months ago, I grabbed it, ran away and devoured it!
"How do you start over when you gave everything to one life, one plan, and lost it all."
When I finishd Three Rivers, I had to sit back and take it all in. This story of love, loss, happiness and rediscovery wrapped around my heart and didn't want to let go.
When introduced to Althea, she has just suffered the tragic loss of her husband but left with the precious gift of a child. Helping her hold it together are her two best friends, Jenna and Aubrey. They continue to help and support her and encourage Althea to move on with her life. In her attempt to move on, we are introduced to Griffen. A famous author and native of Pittsburgh, who has returned to help his mentor at the local University. One night of passion opens up a new path for Althea that leads her across a river of happiness, love and heartbreak.
I absolutely love how the author brought Althea and Griffen together. It wasn't just a boy meets girl book, it was so much more. While Althea put on a happy face around family and friends, inside she was still dealing with the pain and blame of what had happened to her husband. Griffen was trying to run away from his past and when they collided, Oh heck yes! They needed each other to help heal and find themselves again. But with all the happiness and healing, there is some pain and deceit. I found myself laughing quite a bit while reading the many one liners through the book from the secondary characters. Mainly Jenna and Aubrey who's books I cannot wait to read.
For a first time author, Chloe T. Barlow has done an outstanding job of telling the story of Griffen and Aubrey. She takes us on such a ride that I didn't want it to end. Congratulations on such an amazing debut! I will be eagerly waiting for whats next.
If you are looking for a book to read filled with love, passion, laughter, intrigue and twists you didn't see coming, this book is for you.
"How do you start over when you gave everything to one life, one plan, and lost it all."
When I finishd Three Rivers, I had to sit back and take it all in. This story of love, loss, happiness and rediscovery wrapped around my heart and didn't want to let go.
When introduced to Althea, she has just suffered the tragic loss of her husband but left with the precious gift of a child. Helping her hold it together are her two best friends, Jenna and Aubrey. They continue to help and support her and encourage Althea to move on with her life. In her attempt to move on, we are introduced to Griffen. A famous author and native of Pittsburgh, who has returned to help his mentor at the local University. One night of passion opens up a new path for Althea that leads her across a river of happiness, love and heartbreak.
I absolutely love how the author brought Althea and Griffen together. It wasn't just a boy meets girl book, it was so much more. While Althea put on a happy face around family and friends, inside she was still dealing with the pain and blame of what had happened to her husband. Griffen was trying to run away from his past and when they collided, Oh heck yes! They needed each other to help heal and find themselves again. But with all the happiness and healing, there is some pain and deceit. I found myself laughing quite a bit while reading the many one liners through the book from the secondary characters. Mainly Jenna and Aubrey who's books I cannot wait to read.
For a first time author, Chloe T. Barlow has done an outstanding job of telling the story of Griffen and Aubrey. She takes us on such a ride that I didn't want it to end. Congratulations on such an amazing debut! I will be eagerly waiting for whats next.
If you are looking for a book to read filled with love, passion, laughter, intrigue and twists you didn't see coming, this book is for you.
March 16, 2014
When people ask for ideas on what to read, this book is now my #1 recommendation!
Althea, a young widow, has determined she will never find love again. Her friends and family are the only ones she allows close after the loss of her husband shattered her heart.
Griffen, a man running from the demons of his past, trying only to live in the present, finds himself back in his hometown, much to his displeasure.
How can two weary, emotionally scarred people learn to move beyond their past and grab hold of the happiness the other can bring them? While this book deals with heavy emotions, it’s also full of hope and laughter. The relationship between Althea and her two best friends is one of the top supporting character plots I have read in a romance book, ever. There are no superfluous characters in this book; each one is part of the story and holds their own. Each one is relatable, allowing me to immerse myself and get lost in the story.
There is sex in this book. Great, super-hot, makes you swoon sex. It’s not gratuitous, and it only adds to the story, building on the relationship between Griffen and Althea. And Griffen…oh my…what a beautiful, vulnerable, sexy character he is; I love Griffen! The strong, possessive and steadfast emotions he feels for Althea make him all that I look for and love in a character.
Three Rivers made me feel like I was in a river, in rapids, being carried away by the current of emotions the author expertly guided with her amazing writing. And what a ride it was! I can’t recommend this book enough, and it will definitely be a future re-read
Althea, a young widow, has determined she will never find love again. Her friends and family are the only ones she allows close after the loss of her husband shattered her heart.
Griffen, a man running from the demons of his past, trying only to live in the present, finds himself back in his hometown, much to his displeasure.
How can two weary, emotionally scarred people learn to move beyond their past and grab hold of the happiness the other can bring them? While this book deals with heavy emotions, it’s also full of hope and laughter. The relationship between Althea and her two best friends is one of the top supporting character plots I have read in a romance book, ever. There are no superfluous characters in this book; each one is part of the story and holds their own. Each one is relatable, allowing me to immerse myself and get lost in the story.
There is sex in this book. Great, super-hot, makes you swoon sex. It’s not gratuitous, and it only adds to the story, building on the relationship between Griffen and Althea. And Griffen…oh my…what a beautiful, vulnerable, sexy character he is; I love Griffen! The strong, possessive and steadfast emotions he feels for Althea make him all that I look for and love in a character.
Three Rivers made me feel like I was in a river, in rapids, being carried away by the current of emotions the author expertly guided with her amazing writing. And what a ride it was! I can’t recommend this book enough, and it will definitely be a future re-read
May 29, 2014
Three Rivers is a tremendous story about love, loss and the struggles of moving on and the healing of souls.
Chloe Barlow has created a touching story in Three Rivers that takes place in Pittsburgh, PA. A loving and loyal to a fault wife, Althea, who loses her husband in a tragic accident. Guilt ridden and completely immersed in her work, she lets years pass without a thought of moving on but rather barely living through each day.
The charismatic, womanizing, Griffen Tate returns to Pittsburgh to help out a friend and finds himself becoming a fish out of water. For the first time in his life, he may actually have feelings for someone that extend beyond a one night stand. Griffen Tate has demons of his own that he hides easily from Althea. After all no one expects this budding friendship to last more than two weeks.
Not only were the two main characters interesting, I found the witty banter very entertaining. Beyond that, Jenna and Brey who are Althea’s best friends are wonderful supporting characters who apparently will be getting stories of their own which I’ll look forward to reading. The threesome’s bond is admirable. Everyone should have a Jenna and Brey in their life.
There is plenty of mystery and intrigue that will keep you turning the pages right until the end. That coupled with a budding and steamy romance makes for a complete package that readers will enjoy.
While this is part of A Gateway to Love series novel it can be read as a standalone as it is a completed story. No cliff hangers here.
Chloe Barlow has created a touching story in Three Rivers that takes place in Pittsburgh, PA. A loving and loyal to a fault wife, Althea, who loses her husband in a tragic accident. Guilt ridden and completely immersed in her work, she lets years pass without a thought of moving on but rather barely living through each day.
The charismatic, womanizing, Griffen Tate returns to Pittsburgh to help out a friend and finds himself becoming a fish out of water. For the first time in his life, he may actually have feelings for someone that extend beyond a one night stand. Griffen Tate has demons of his own that he hides easily from Althea. After all no one expects this budding friendship to last more than two weeks.
Not only were the two main characters interesting, I found the witty banter very entertaining. Beyond that, Jenna and Brey who are Althea’s best friends are wonderful supporting characters who apparently will be getting stories of their own which I’ll look forward to reading. The threesome’s bond is admirable. Everyone should have a Jenna and Brey in their life.
There is plenty of mystery and intrigue that will keep you turning the pages right until the end. That coupled with a budding and steamy romance makes for a complete package that readers will enjoy.
While this is part of A Gateway to Love series novel it can be read as a standalone as it is a completed story. No cliff hangers here.
August 10, 2016
Three Rivers blew me away. I can’t get over the fact that this is the debut novel for author Chloe T. Barlow. She is clearly exceptionally talented and was meant to write this story! Three Rivers was the perfect blend of romance, suspense, action and thrill. I didn’t find the story to be predictable or overdone.
Aubrey, Althea and Jenna are three friends who are determined to get through this crazy world with the support from one another. Their bond and relationship is real and relatable. You will want to know these girls and laugh along with their shenanigans. Soul sisters from start to finish, these ladies are exactly the kind of support system Althea and her son need.
Althea knows all too well how depression and sadness can alter the course of her dreams. Grief has continued to weigh her down and control her future for far too long. Three Rivers will take you on her unforgettable journey of loss, hope and acceptance. A connection from a man she never even knew will turn her world upside. Battling uncertainty, she has to take the chance of a lifetime in order to see her happily ever after. The journey is never easy, but always worth the trip.
Author Chloe T. Barlow made my emotions come alive with her flawless storytelling. This is one book you have to read! I can't say enough good things about it. This is one to watch out for!!
Aubrey, Althea and Jenna are three friends who are determined to get through this crazy world with the support from one another. Their bond and relationship is real and relatable. You will want to know these girls and laugh along with their shenanigans. Soul sisters from start to finish, these ladies are exactly the kind of support system Althea and her son need.
Althea knows all too well how depression and sadness can alter the course of her dreams. Grief has continued to weigh her down and control her future for far too long. Three Rivers will take you on her unforgettable journey of loss, hope and acceptance. A connection from a man she never even knew will turn her world upside. Battling uncertainty, she has to take the chance of a lifetime in order to see her happily ever after. The journey is never easy, but always worth the trip.
Author Chloe T. Barlow made my emotions come alive with her flawless storytelling. This is one book you have to read! I can't say enough good things about it. This is one to watch out for!!
May 28, 2014
Three Rivers was an amazing book! I couldn't read it fast enough. It captivated me, hooked me, drew me in, swallowed me and didn't let me go until the final word of the final page. Even though I have finished reading the book, I continue to play parts of it over and over in my mind...the guilt, the grief, the friendships, the mystery, the suspense, the forgiveness, the growing, the love.
The author weaves an intriguing story set in Pittsburgh, PA. The beauty of this city intensifies the beauty of Althea and Griffen's story. If Pittsburgh weren't already my favorite city in the USA it would have been by the end of the story.
I absolutely loved the banter between Althea and Griffen. Their conversations made me laugh, cry and experience many "ah" moments. As for the girl talk Althea had with her friends Jenna and Aubrey it was among the best ever. The talks flowed from serious to hysterical to angry to loving and caring and we're written in such a way I truly felt a part of each.
I found Chloe T. Barlow's writing to be magical and intense. Three Rivers is extremely well written and left me completely satisfied yet wanting more of Althea and Griffen. Being her debut novel, this book is an absolutely wonderful success for Chloe T Barlow. It took me on a journey I will not soon forget and I look forward to reading many more books from this fantastic new author.
June 29, 2014
Three Rivers by Chloe Barlow is certainly a must read. Althea, known to her friends as "Tea", has loved only one man, Jack her husband. But one night changed everything for her when Jack was killed in a car accident. Several weeks later Tea finds out she is pregnant with his baby. Tea does the only thing she can do to survive - work and take care of her son. After 5 years, Tea's friends push her into going out, that is when she meets Griffin.
Griffin is well known author and is only in town for two weeks. His hometown holds to many skeletons he would like to forget. Sitting at a bar, drowning his sorrows, he over hears Tea and her friends talking about him. Taking the opportunity, he approaches Althea and makes her an offer for a one-night stand. She agrees and calls this chance taking baby steps. Griffin and Jack grew up together but after college their lives went in different directions. Griffin was to busy to attend Jacks wedding and then his funeral. Griffin wants to help Althea take her baby steps even if its only for two weeks he is here. Althea feels does think love is in the cards for her especially after loving and losing Jack.
This book takes the reader on a journey of losing a loved one and what the time period is for mourning, even if others cant except the lose. I would recommend this book and looked forward to more from Chloe Barlow.
Griffin is well known author and is only in town for two weeks. His hometown holds to many skeletons he would like to forget. Sitting at a bar, drowning his sorrows, he over hears Tea and her friends talking about him. Taking the opportunity, he approaches Althea and makes her an offer for a one-night stand. She agrees and calls this chance taking baby steps. Griffin and Jack grew up together but after college their lives went in different directions. Griffin was to busy to attend Jacks wedding and then his funeral. Griffin wants to help Althea take her baby steps even if its only for two weeks he is here. Althea feels does think love is in the cards for her especially after loving and losing Jack.
This book takes the reader on a journey of losing a loved one and what the time period is for mourning, even if others cant except the lose. I would recommend this book and looked forward to more from Chloe Barlow.
May 28, 2014
Three Rivers is a fantastic read. I love the setting of Pittsburgh. I've always had a soft spot for the city and it was great to read about the places that I have been so many times. The descriptions were great and I could totally see the story taking place in my head. So many emotions are brought out in this story. Passion, sorrow, pain, hope, love. I could go on and on. Althea is a strong woman that has gone through a rough time and is living her life the only way she knows how to. She has been coasting along life for the past 5+ years and she is content. Enter a one night stand that ends up being more than she bargained for. Griffen thinks a 2 week fling with Althea is just what he needs to get her out of his system then he can go back to his playboy ways. Little do they both know, it's not that simple. Add in 2 best friends that know when to tell you that you are being completely stupid and selfish, a 5 year old with an obsession for punk rock and football, and some suspense that will keep you guessing. It all adds up to a killer breakout novel! Chloe you have a new fan for life!!
May 21, 2014
I loved this book. It is literally in my back yard in Pittsburgh. The scenes were real to life for me. I have been to the places that are in this book, experienced things solely Pittsburgh and used some of the dialect written.
I felt connected to the characters, suffered through Althea's pain at such an immense lose of a loved one. The friendships that Althea has with her 2 BFFs is strong. Their support helps her through one of the most tragic times in her life. Bruised and battered emotionally she goes through life living for her dead husband and their child. He is her life line and her sanity.
Enter a longtime friend of her husband, Griffin. They meet and sparks fly, but they are both dealing with internal struggles that seemingly can't be overcome.
Together they work on healing each other, finding love and understanding that sometimes it's ok to let the past live in the past.
This turned out to be so much more than a debut novel for Ms. Barlow. I can't wait to see where she takes us next.
I felt connected to the characters, suffered through Althea's pain at such an immense lose of a loved one. The friendships that Althea has with her 2 BFFs is strong. Their support helps her through one of the most tragic times in her life. Bruised and battered emotionally she goes through life living for her dead husband and their child. He is her life line and her sanity.
Enter a longtime friend of her husband, Griffin. They meet and sparks fly, but they are both dealing with internal struggles that seemingly can't be overcome.
Together they work on healing each other, finding love and understanding that sometimes it's ok to let the past live in the past.
This turned out to be so much more than a debut novel for Ms. Barlow. I can't wait to see where she takes us next.
March 24, 2014
A copy was given for an honest review. Having never heard of Ms. Barlow I was anxious to read her first novel. I was pleasantly surprised by the wonderful and talented story telling. Grieving widow and long lost friend of her husband are dealing with her two friends, mother in law and young son meddling with their lives. Griffin, by nature, is inquisitive and learns a few things unknown to Althea. This knowledge leads to lots of questions and the book changes pace fairly quickly. This hot and heavy temporary romance turns into a mystery/suspense novel. I fell in love with all the characters especially Althea' s son and her friends. Griffin is easily the next book boyfriend that will be talked about amongst the blogs. He's smart, rich, sexy and knows his way around a woman. Looking forward to Jenna' s and Aubrey' s books.
April 5, 2014
I was fortunate to win a copy of this debut novel and was thoroughly impressed. This story his heartbreaking and heartwarming at the same time. Althea is a grieving widow who feels that her one and only shot at true love,died with her husband, Jack. Ms. Barlow takes us on Tea's journey through grief, guilt, joy and love. I was drawn in from the beginning to the very end. This book will make you laugh and want to spontaneously combust with the chemistry between Tea and Griffen. Already eagerly anticipating Book #2!!!
March 29, 2014
Amazing debut novel! Loved this book! This book had mystery, drama, romance. I have found a new "book boyfiend". Love Griffen! Full of great Pittsburgh places! Great characters! This is a book I will read over again. So sad to see it end! Can't wait for the next book by Chloe Barlow! She has become a new favorite of mine!
May 8, 2014
Imagine marrying your college sweetheart, your relationship is solid, you think you have your whole lives ahead of you and then one night it all comes to a horrible end.
That's what happened to Althea "Tea" Taylor. At 24 years old, she lost Jack Taylor, the love of her life. When Jack is at work far too late one night, Althea falls asleep while waiting for him to get home. Only to be woken up by police officers banging on her door in the middle of the night, telling her Jack is dead. Somehow driving home on this icy night, Jack's car skidded of the road and into the river...The Allegheny. Even though it was clearly an accident, Althea feels guilty for Jack's death.
Althea barely gets through the early weeks of Jack's death. Thank goodness she has her two best friends, Aubrey and Jenna. These two amazing girls have picked up their lives and moved to Pittsburgh to support their friend.
Fast forward about 5 and a half years later. Althea, is getting ready to celebrate her son Johnny's 5th birthday. A son that Jack never knew about. A son Jack would never get to know.
Add into the mix a mother in law that acts like Althea should never move on with her life after Jack and a mother who just wants her daughter to come back to life. Because for all these years, Althea has been merely existing. Not really living.
So, one night Aubrey and Jenna (whom I absolutely adore), convince Althea to go out, have some drinks and well find a man for some sexual experimentation. Baby steps they call it. Her girls are determined to get Althea to start living again.
Nicholas Griffen Tate is a writer who has made more money than he knows what to do with. His books have been made into movies and are wildly popular. Even though he's from Pittsburgh, he left years ago. Ran away from some demons that were chasing him and never came back. Until now. Griffen is helping out a friend by taking over his teaching position at the university for two weeks.
Let the fun begin....because hotty hot Griffen is the play thing Aubrey and Jenna pick for Althea. They are immediately attracted to each other and their "one night" together is off the chain hot. Althea and Griffen have hot, sweaty animal sex...All. Night. Long. Althea being well, Althea, skips out the next morning before Griffen even wakes up. And clearly Althea left a big impression because Griffen decides to make it his business to find Althea. Apparently one night was not enough for Griffen.
Plot twist....It's not a spoiler, because it happens early on. Griffen finds Althea sooner than he imagined, since he and his mother show up at little Johhnny's birthday party. Griffen and Jack were childhood friends. Best friends until Griffen left his life in Pittsburgh behind. So when Althea and Griffen run into each other it's um....awkward.
Griffen is really into Althea and even though she doesn't want to admit it, she's really feeling him as well. Griffen puts up a proposal to Althea. He tells her he'll only be in town for two weeks, let him be her baby steps. She can practice getting back into the dating world with Griffen. A sort of no strings attached, no guilt involved arrangement.
There are other men vying for Althea's affections. A certain doctor from town and Jack's mentor both have their eyes on Althea. Only she's definitely not feeling them. They are both jealous and untrusting of Griffen.
Let me share Griffen and Althea's chemistry is off the charts. The nights they spend together are steamy. But it's not just amazing sex. They really have genuine feelings for each other.
There's a bit of everything in this story. Our lovers both feel guilt for obvious reasons. Add a bit of intrigue when Griffen finds a flash drive in a hiding place he and Jack shared as children and you have an incredibly compelling read.
My own personal plug. Check back on Best BookBoyfriends to my Book Blitz for the Three Rivers Blog Tour post. Chloe Barlow put together a dream cast and Griffen's computer whiz friend Trey is a damn fine looking specimen. Chloe, maybe Trey should get his own story (wink, wink).
A five lip smack read. Griffen and Althea's hotel antics alone earn them that hands down!
That's what happened to Althea "Tea" Taylor. At 24 years old, she lost Jack Taylor, the love of her life. When Jack is at work far too late one night, Althea falls asleep while waiting for him to get home. Only to be woken up by police officers banging on her door in the middle of the night, telling her Jack is dead. Somehow driving home on this icy night, Jack's car skidded of the road and into the river...The Allegheny. Even though it was clearly an accident, Althea feels guilty for Jack's death.
Althea barely gets through the early weeks of Jack's death. Thank goodness she has her two best friends, Aubrey and Jenna. These two amazing girls have picked up their lives and moved to Pittsburgh to support their friend.
Fast forward about 5 and a half years later. Althea, is getting ready to celebrate her son Johnny's 5th birthday. A son that Jack never knew about. A son Jack would never get to know.
Add into the mix a mother in law that acts like Althea should never move on with her life after Jack and a mother who just wants her daughter to come back to life. Because for all these years, Althea has been merely existing. Not really living.
So, one night Aubrey and Jenna (whom I absolutely adore), convince Althea to go out, have some drinks and well find a man for some sexual experimentation. Baby steps they call it. Her girls are determined to get Althea to start living again.
Nicholas Griffen Tate is a writer who has made more money than he knows what to do with. His books have been made into movies and are wildly popular. Even though he's from Pittsburgh, he left years ago. Ran away from some demons that were chasing him and never came back. Until now. Griffen is helping out a friend by taking over his teaching position at the university for two weeks.
Let the fun begin....because hotty hot Griffen is the play thing Aubrey and Jenna pick for Althea. They are immediately attracted to each other and their "one night" together is off the chain hot. Althea and Griffen have hot, sweaty animal sex...All. Night. Long. Althea being well, Althea, skips out the next morning before Griffen even wakes up. And clearly Althea left a big impression because Griffen decides to make it his business to find Althea. Apparently one night was not enough for Griffen.
Plot twist....It's not a spoiler, because it happens early on. Griffen finds Althea sooner than he imagined, since he and his mother show up at little Johhnny's birthday party. Griffen and Jack were childhood friends. Best friends until Griffen left his life in Pittsburgh behind. So when Althea and Griffen run into each other it's um....awkward.
Griffen is really into Althea and even though she doesn't want to admit it, she's really feeling him as well. Griffen puts up a proposal to Althea. He tells her he'll only be in town for two weeks, let him be her baby steps. She can practice getting back into the dating world with Griffen. A sort of no strings attached, no guilt involved arrangement.
There are other men vying for Althea's affections. A certain doctor from town and Jack's mentor both have their eyes on Althea. Only she's definitely not feeling them. They are both jealous and untrusting of Griffen.
Let me share Griffen and Althea's chemistry is off the charts. The nights they spend together are steamy. But it's not just amazing sex. They really have genuine feelings for each other.
There's a bit of everything in this story. Our lovers both feel guilt for obvious reasons. Add a bit of intrigue when Griffen finds a flash drive in a hiding place he and Jack shared as children and you have an incredibly compelling read.
My own personal plug. Check back on Best BookBoyfriends to my Book Blitz for the Three Rivers Blog Tour post. Chloe Barlow put together a dream cast and Griffen's computer whiz friend Trey is a damn fine looking specimen. Chloe, maybe Trey should get his own story (wink, wink).
A five lip smack read. Griffen and Althea's hotel antics alone earn them that hands down!
August 12, 2014
I was lucky enough to have won this book on facebook. I had read about it and wanted to read it, but my TBR is so huge. However, something about it just called to me and I had to drop everything and read it. This is a story of love, loss, pain, guilt, regret, forgiveness, angst, friendship and suspense. Chloe somehow gets all these emotions into the book with out being overwhelming or pushy. The writing is brilliant and the story is unique. Althea tragically loses her husband and she can't seem to let go of the loss and guilt she feels. She has amazing friends who are supportive of her but get her to see that it's time she moves on. She meets a handsome stranger and feels a connection with him that she hasn't had since her late husband. Griffen returns to Pittsburgh and sees Althea and knows that he has to have her. Their initial meeting is funny and very steamy. I love Griffen! He has a way with words that had me sighing through the entire book. Griffen and Tea have such amazing chemistry both in and out of bed. Their conversations are deep and meaning and fun and flirty. I love the nicknames they have for each other and the sex is HOT! I loved that this story was different. Not only the plot, but the characters, the feelings and even the sex scenes. I didn't feel like I was reading "another romance" story at all. The secondary characters were such a huge part of the story that I felt like I was there with them. Tea and her friends make me miss my girls! And Trey? Hello!
Can Griffen and Tea move past their regret and guilt and find happiness in each other's arms? Will the past come back and put a wedge between them? Do not miss this amazing story!
"Do I make you nervous? He asked.
"A little," she muttered in a voice she barely recognized.
"Just breathe, " he whispered.
Other than that she was hyper-focused - on him: his impossible aqua blue eyes (seriously, is that even a real eye color?); his broad shoulders; that delicious mouth; the way his slightly shaggy hair grazed his dark brows. Everything about him was hardwired to excite her on every level.
"Really? Ah, no, I’m a sweetheart."
"I'll hold you to that, Althea. In fact," he said, placing a hand at her lower back until she gasped, "I would like to hold you to a lot of things."
"Ooh, that's a good line."
"A line? " he asked, his hand leaving her back to rest on his chest, his brow furrowing in a perfect image of false hurt. "You wound me, gorgeous."
"I'm sure your ego will recover."
"I'm not sure, I may need a bit of special attention, just to be sure." She rolled her eyes at him again and he simply smirked right back at her.
"Favorite song?"
"In Your Eyes, but only in Say Anything." He raised an eyebrow and she whispered, "I've always has an unhealthy crush on John Cusack."
"Hmm, now where am I going to find an enormous boom box in this century? Will it get you to come back to my hotel with me if I hold my iPhone over my head and play that song?" He started fiddling theatrically with the music controls on his iPhone.
"Mmm, it's so good to see you. Wait, oh God, are those patches on your elbows?"
"You like them? I thought I'd go all out. You know, do the whole academic look." he said.
"I like it very much. I, uh, think you're frying my brain."
"That's the idea, gorgeous."
It was as though an electric shock had started in his center and moved out to his fingertips and toes, up into his mouth - forcing him to tell her how deeply he cared for her.
Yeah, you've come down with a case of acute dumbass. You fell for her and she doesn't want you.
"Now turn around and grab the edge of my desk...Well done. Now pull up your skirt for me," he commanded.
It was as though an electric shock had started in his center and moved out to his fingertips and toes, up into his mouth - forcing him to tell her how deeply he cared for her.
Yeah, you've come down with a case of acute dumbass. You fell for her and she doesn't want you.
Can Griffen and Tea move past their regret and guilt and find happiness in each other's arms? Will the past come back and put a wedge between them? Do not miss this amazing story!
"Do I make you nervous? He asked.
"A little," she muttered in a voice she barely recognized.
"Just breathe, " he whispered.
Other than that she was hyper-focused - on him: his impossible aqua blue eyes (seriously, is that even a real eye color?); his broad shoulders; that delicious mouth; the way his slightly shaggy hair grazed his dark brows. Everything about him was hardwired to excite her on every level.
"Really? Ah, no, I’m a sweetheart."
"I'll hold you to that, Althea. In fact," he said, placing a hand at her lower back until she gasped, "I would like to hold you to a lot of things."
"Ooh, that's a good line."
"A line? " he asked, his hand leaving her back to rest on his chest, his brow furrowing in a perfect image of false hurt. "You wound me, gorgeous."
"I'm sure your ego will recover."
"I'm not sure, I may need a bit of special attention, just to be sure." She rolled her eyes at him again and he simply smirked right back at her.
"Favorite song?"
"In Your Eyes, but only in Say Anything." He raised an eyebrow and she whispered, "I've always has an unhealthy crush on John Cusack."
"Hmm, now where am I going to find an enormous boom box in this century? Will it get you to come back to my hotel with me if I hold my iPhone over my head and play that song?" He started fiddling theatrically with the music controls on his iPhone.
"Mmm, it's so good to see you. Wait, oh God, are those patches on your elbows?"
"You like them? I thought I'd go all out. You know, do the whole academic look." he said.
"I like it very much. I, uh, think you're frying my brain."
"That's the idea, gorgeous."
It was as though an electric shock had started in his center and moved out to his fingertips and toes, up into his mouth - forcing him to tell her how deeply he cared for her.
Yeah, you've come down with a case of acute dumbass. You fell for her and she doesn't want you.
"Now turn around and grab the edge of my desk...Well done. Now pull up your skirt for me," he commanded.
It was as though an electric shock had started in his center and moved out to his fingertips and toes, up into his mouth - forcing him to tell her how deeply he cared for her.
Yeah, you've come down with a case of acute dumbass. You fell for her and she doesn't want you.
April 17, 2014
This is Griffen and Althea's story.
Althea was living the dream, she couldn't have been happier she was in law school and doing amazingly at it, and she was married to the man of her dreams, Jack. One night changes it all and Althea loses the thing that means the most to her in her life. At such a young age she has to start over. She doesn't want to start over and feels like her life is done. She had her moment of happiness and she is just going to live and be Jack's widow.
So five years goes by and Althea is still stuck in her past and is still very much in love with Jack. She doesn't want to move on, she want's to stay exactly the way she is. Her two best friends have other plans for her and are tired of watching Althea basically just exist. They tell her to take baby steps and try to move on with her life. Althea takes their advice and goes out with them to find a one night stand. Someone that she can forget with, someone who won't know who she is and she can pretend. She can do this. This is where Althea meets Griffen. A man that is visiting Pittsburgh for only a few weeks. A man she was only suppose to have one night with, that turns into a few weeks, without knowing that she is falling she falls. Althea needs to see that Jack did die, but she didn't die with him. She can be happy again without betraying the love she feels for her Jack.
Griffen has his own set of problems and doesn't commit easily, but he finds himself falling for Althea as fast as she fell for him. These two try to deny the instant connection that they have, the growing love that is between them. Althea not only had one real true love in her life she just might have two. But can she see it and will she see it in time for her to have her HEA with Griffen?
This story captivated me from the first turn of the page. Althea is such a beautiful soul who has had a bad turn at life. She is stuck and she is happy being stuck. She could care less about anything going on around her. She is happy with what she has and the cards she has been dealt. Her two best friends are her life lines and her Saviors they step up when most would have given up on her and said she was a lost cause. They motivate her and encourage her and for 5 years have held her up when she didn't think she had the courage or the strength to go on. She has so much love to give. Griffen I feel is misunderstood and just needs the right woman to love. When he finds her, the playboy that he is will fly away and he will be free to give his heart to her. He meets Althea and feels that instant connection. Drawn to her like no other. This story was heart wrenching and beautiful. It tore at my heart, but also had me laughing and yearning for more. It's a strong story of love and loss. A story of second chances and miracles. You will laugh and you will cry and you will be touched by this beautifully told story. It will leave you asking yourself this question. What would you do if you lost the person you loved most in your life? You will never be the same when you're done reading this book. It has left a feeling in me that I will not soon be forgetting.
August 11, 2016
4.25 STARS
Well, well, well…….Wasn't that a pleasant surprise??? Don't let the cover or blurb fool you. Chloe Barlow has tucked some steeeeamy stuff between these pages! I really enjoyed this one! This book had a little bit of everything – romance, laughs, steaminess, and a bit of it-was-Colonel Mustard-with-the-candle-stick-in-the-dining-room.
Aleatha is unexpectedly a widow at 24, and five years later she’s still mourning the loss of Jack, her husband. She throws herself into her work and doesn’t allow herself anything outside work and home. Running from his past, Griffen hasn’t been back to the city where he grew up for nearly 10 years. A chance meeting brings Aleatha and Griffen together. The attraction is almost instant. With Griffen’s time in the city limited and neither one in want of a relationship, they agree to a no strings, just fun relationship. No strings, just fun, no real relationship??? Yah right. Who are you kidding? Griffen and Aleatha soon find out that no strings isn’t as easy as it sounds……….
I found myself laughing during this one which is surprising only because I didn’t picture this book to hold so many laughs. Tea and her friends are laugh your ass off funny. Griffen is charmingly hilarious. And, the moms are absolutely fantastic! (Well, not Jack's mom. I kind of wanted to flatten her.) Those moms deserved hi-fives for meddling.
Griffen is cocky, sexy, hot, and so full of himself. That bar scene………. Wow!!! Holy butterflies in the stomach. If that were me, I definitely would have been falling all over that man’s feet. And, I never could I have imagined how the pair actually meet. The refreshing part about this book is that the story is different and isn't played out. Griffen's profession is a nice change of pace, too. And, I love the fact that Tea’s friends play a huge part in the story.
Chloe Barlow does a great job pulling you into the story. I needed to know what happens next and had a very hard time putting it down. For a freshmen offering, Chloe Barlow has done a wonderful job writing an exciting, heartwarming, and romantic story. It’s full of heartache, surprises, heart melting dialogue, straight talking friends, and one super irresistible smooth talking sexy male.
Having grown up in Pittsburgh before moving to Boston, I was excited to see a story set there. Because how many books do you see set in the Steel City???? I got quite sentimental reading about the place where I grew up. It was easy to picture the setting. I found myself saying "hey, I know that place, I’ve been there". Every “I know that place” brought back great memories of growing up in a “big” city that’s still relatively small. The Pittsburgh “accent” and Pittsburgh-ese were the cherry on top that put a huge smile on my face.
I cannot wait for the next book. Maybe Jenna’s book will feature sandwiches with french fries and coleslaw on them or smiley face cookies???????
(ARC received in exchange for an honest review)
Well, well, well…….Wasn't that a pleasant surprise??? Don't let the cover or blurb fool you. Chloe Barlow has tucked some steeeeamy stuff between these pages! I really enjoyed this one! This book had a little bit of everything – romance, laughs, steaminess, and a bit of it-was-Colonel Mustard-with-the-candle-stick-in-the-dining-room.
Aleatha is unexpectedly a widow at 24, and five years later she’s still mourning the loss of Jack, her husband. She throws herself into her work and doesn’t allow herself anything outside work and home. Running from his past, Griffen hasn’t been back to the city where he grew up for nearly 10 years. A chance meeting brings Aleatha and Griffen together. The attraction is almost instant. With Griffen’s time in the city limited and neither one in want of a relationship, they agree to a no strings, just fun relationship. No strings, just fun, no real relationship??? Yah right. Who are you kidding? Griffen and Aleatha soon find out that no strings isn’t as easy as it sounds……….
I found myself laughing during this one which is surprising only because I didn’t picture this book to hold so many laughs. Tea and her friends are laugh your ass off funny. Griffen is charmingly hilarious. And, the moms are absolutely fantastic! (Well, not Jack's mom. I kind of wanted to flatten her.) Those moms deserved hi-fives for meddling.
Griffen is cocky, sexy, hot, and so full of himself. That bar scene………. Wow!!! Holy butterflies in the stomach. If that were me, I definitely would have been falling all over that man’s feet. And, I never could I have imagined how the pair actually meet. The refreshing part about this book is that the story is different and isn't played out. Griffen's profession is a nice change of pace, too. And, I love the fact that Tea’s friends play a huge part in the story.
Chloe Barlow does a great job pulling you into the story. I needed to know what happens next and had a very hard time putting it down. For a freshmen offering, Chloe Barlow has done a wonderful job writing an exciting, heartwarming, and romantic story. It’s full of heartache, surprises, heart melting dialogue, straight talking friends, and one super irresistible smooth talking sexy male.
Having grown up in Pittsburgh before moving to Boston, I was excited to see a story set there. Because how many books do you see set in the Steel City???? I got quite sentimental reading about the place where I grew up. It was easy to picture the setting. I found myself saying "hey, I know that place, I’ve been there". Every “I know that place” brought back great memories of growing up in a “big” city that’s still relatively small. The Pittsburgh “accent” and Pittsburgh-ese were the cherry on top that put a huge smile on my face.
I cannot wait for the next book. Maybe Jenna’s book will feature sandwiches with french fries and coleslaw on them or smiley face cookies???????
(ARC received in exchange for an honest review)
November 9, 2014
I have to say, I really enjoyed this story. Three Rivers was a love story about second chances, hope, loss, love and laughter but, it was also a mystery, a thriller and a very angsty suspenseful read that will keep you turning the pages. First off, Chloe is an amazing writer and did a wonderful job with description and character development. You really feel the emotions of the characters. The title Three Rivers plays a very big part in the theme of this story. I really loved how this book was so emotional yet could light hearted too. Chloe Barlow struck the perfect balance.
We meet Althea, known as Tea, in the truly great prologue. She loses her husband in a tragic accident when she is only 24 years old and doesn’t believe she will ever have love again. The story picks up 5 years later and Tea, while trying to hold her life together, is an attorney raising a small child on her own. Chloe’s mother in law, even after five years will not allow Tea to move on and makes Tea feel an overwhelming sense of guilt about her husband’s death.
Tea’s best friends, Jenna and Aubrey are such great secondary characters in this book. They are wonderful, supportive, loving friends and so funny. They are truly what a best friend should be. I loved them. (and Jenna will have her own story!) They are on a mission to get Tea into the dating world. They take Tea to a bar where she crosses paths with Griffin……
Griffin is a famous writer visiting his mother in his hometown and is helping a former mentor. Griffin is a great character. Sexy, possessive, a bit vulnerable and did I say sexy? He and Tea meet and have a very hot, what is supposed to be a one night stand. Tea doesn’t think she’ll see Griffin again, but, surprise! She and Griffin have a surprising connection.
Tea and Griffin embark on a very steamy and sexy secret relationship that is supposed to only last while he is in town. Their chemistry is smoking hot which translated into a very steamy, sexy read.
Tea and Griffin’s story progresses as they start to realize they have a real connection. Will they find real love and heal each other? You’ll just have to read to find out. I won’t spoil the mystery of this story for you cause it’s a good one.
All in all this was a great debut novel by Chloe Barlow; I will definitely be reading more from her. I definitely recommend this book.
We meet Althea, known as Tea, in the truly great prologue. She loses her husband in a tragic accident when she is only 24 years old and doesn’t believe she will ever have love again. The story picks up 5 years later and Tea, while trying to hold her life together, is an attorney raising a small child on her own. Chloe’s mother in law, even after five years will not allow Tea to move on and makes Tea feel an overwhelming sense of guilt about her husband’s death.
Tea’s best friends, Jenna and Aubrey are such great secondary characters in this book. They are wonderful, supportive, loving friends and so funny. They are truly what a best friend should be. I loved them. (and Jenna will have her own story!) They are on a mission to get Tea into the dating world. They take Tea to a bar where she crosses paths with Griffin……
Griffin is a famous writer visiting his mother in his hometown and is helping a former mentor. Griffin is a great character. Sexy, possessive, a bit vulnerable and did I say sexy? He and Tea meet and have a very hot, what is supposed to be a one night stand. Tea doesn’t think she’ll see Griffin again, but, surprise! She and Griffin have a surprising connection.
Tea and Griffin embark on a very steamy and sexy secret relationship that is supposed to only last while he is in town. Their chemistry is smoking hot which translated into a very steamy, sexy read.
Tea and Griffin’s story progresses as they start to realize they have a real connection. Will they find real love and heal each other? You’ll just have to read to find out. I won’t spoil the mystery of this story for you cause it’s a good one.
All in all this was a great debut novel by Chloe Barlow; I will definitely be reading more from her. I definitely recommend this book.
April 19, 2014
About a 2.5 rating...
What I loved:
Loved the back story of Griffen... he had a difficult childhood but found a way to come out on top in spite of that fact.
Loved the mystery behind the death of Althea's husband... I would have liked to have gotten to know him better and maybe spent more time on the events leading up to his death.
Loved the fact that Griffen was the best friend to Althea's husband and that is what brings Althea and Griffen closer together.
What I didn't love:
He constantly calls her gorgeous... so much so that it became annoying. Just wanted him to stop... she has a name! There's a time to call me gorgeous and a time to call me by my name... this is just a personal pet peeve. :) This may not bother anyone else...
Althea spends way too much time letting other people tell her what to do... and she just complies no matter how ridiculous the circumstances. Especially with the mother-in-law... that entire relationship was confusing and unhealthy. Althea couldn't seem to make any decisions for herself. I just found that quality about her very unappealing and frustrating.
I was okay with the original one night stand when they didn't really know each other... it happens right? But later, after they found out the truth about each other and how they were both connected to Althea's late husband, I felt like the story should have shifted from "I want your body"... to perhaps a more slow developing emotional romance where the sex took a temporary back seat. I was very turned off by their agreement for the He was doing her a favor... yeah... okay! I felt like this cheapened their characters and took away from what could have been a very emotionally engaging story.
Anyway, there were parts of this book that I loved and parts that I didn't BUT it is well written. And, other people seem to have really liked it... so, please don't take my word for it! Give it a go if it interests you and make up your own mind. :)
www.ktbookreviews.com
What I loved:
Loved the back story of Griffen... he had a difficult childhood but found a way to come out on top in spite of that fact.
Loved the mystery behind the death of Althea's husband... I would have liked to have gotten to know him better and maybe spent more time on the events leading up to his death.
Loved the fact that Griffen was the best friend to Althea's husband and that is what brings Althea and Griffen closer together.
What I didn't love:
He constantly calls her gorgeous... so much so that it became annoying. Just wanted him to stop... she has a name! There's a time to call me gorgeous and a time to call me by my name... this is just a personal pet peeve. :) This may not bother anyone else...
Althea spends way too much time letting other people tell her what to do... and she just complies no matter how ridiculous the circumstances. Especially with the mother-in-law... that entire relationship was confusing and unhealthy. Althea couldn't seem to make any decisions for herself. I just found that quality about her very unappealing and frustrating.
I was okay with the original one night stand when they didn't really know each other... it happens right? But later, after they found out the truth about each other and how they were both connected to Althea's late husband, I felt like the story should have shifted from "I want your body"... to perhaps a more slow developing emotional romance where the sex took a temporary back seat. I was very turned off by their agreement for the He was doing her a favor... yeah... okay! I felt like this cheapened their characters and took away from what could have been a very emotionally engaging story.
Anyway, there were parts of this book that I loved and parts that I didn't BUT it is well written. And, other people seem to have really liked it... so, please don't take my word for it! Give it a go if it interests you and make up your own mind. :)
www.ktbookreviews.com
September 1, 2016
When the opportunity to review Three Rivers by Chloe T. Barlow popped up in our email, I jumped at the chance. It takes place where I live, Pittsburgh. And then I come to find out that Chloe also lives in Pittsburgh which I thought was kinda cool. Three Rivers isn’t your traditional romance. There is mystery and a little crime solving mixed in. And a twist that literally had me sitting up in bed.
Althea married the love of her life Jack very young. They were the perfect couple. Tragically Jack died on his way home from work one night. Two weeks later, Tea, finds out she’s pregnant. Five years later, she still considers herself married to Jack. She’s gone out on a few dates but it was more to pacify her best friends Aubrey and Jenna then for herself. Aubrey and Jenna, who are absolutely hysterical, finally get her to go out one night and consider a one night stand. Kind of a way to get herself back out there. No strings, no mess. Just fun.
There she meets Griffen. Hot, sexy and she is instantly attracted to him. Griffen is a successful author whose books have been made into movies. Althea doesn’t realize that but decides that yes, he will be her fun night. The attraction between them is immediate. There is a spark between them. Not necessarily love at first sight, but pretty close.
I’m not going to tell you what happens next, besides yes, they do have a one night stand. If I do, I’ll give away a HUGE part of the book. I can’t forget to mention Altheas 5 year old punk rock son, Johnny. He is adorable and funny and a kid I would love to hang out with. He just rocks.
I love that I read a book about my transplant hometown. Chloe did a great job making Pittsburgh, Pittburgh. You can tell she lives here and she was able to add in all the things about the city people love and hate, including the crazy bridge traffic and construction. I mean really, in a city with more bridges than anything else, why is there always traffic on them?
For her debut book, I think Chloe hit it out of the park. It gave me more then I wanted. It kept me up reading until I fell asleep with my ipad in my hand and then I couldn’t put it down at all the next day. I can’t wait until her next book.
~Katie
Althea married the love of her life Jack very young. They were the perfect couple. Tragically Jack died on his way home from work one night. Two weeks later, Tea, finds out she’s pregnant. Five years later, she still considers herself married to Jack. She’s gone out on a few dates but it was more to pacify her best friends Aubrey and Jenna then for herself. Aubrey and Jenna, who are absolutely hysterical, finally get her to go out one night and consider a one night stand. Kind of a way to get herself back out there. No strings, no mess. Just fun.
There she meets Griffen. Hot, sexy and she is instantly attracted to him. Griffen is a successful author whose books have been made into movies. Althea doesn’t realize that but decides that yes, he will be her fun night. The attraction between them is immediate. There is a spark between them. Not necessarily love at first sight, but pretty close.
I’m not going to tell you what happens next, besides yes, they do have a one night stand. If I do, I’ll give away a HUGE part of the book. I can’t forget to mention Altheas 5 year old punk rock son, Johnny. He is adorable and funny and a kid I would love to hang out with. He just rocks.
I love that I read a book about my transplant hometown. Chloe did a great job making Pittsburgh, Pittburgh. You can tell she lives here and she was able to add in all the things about the city people love and hate, including the crazy bridge traffic and construction. I mean really, in a city with more bridges than anything else, why is there always traffic on them?
For her debut book, I think Chloe hit it out of the park. It gave me more then I wanted. It kept me up reading until I fell asleep with my ipad in my hand and then I couldn’t put it down at all the next day. I can’t wait until her next book.
~Katie
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