NEW ADULT/ADULT CROSSOVER ROMANTIC COMEDY NOVELLA **Warning: contains sexual situations (some quite vivid!), profanity, and a high dose of sarcasm. Oh, and there is a lot of appletini and beer drinking. May not be appropriate for readers under 18 years old. Not intended for prudes and killjoys with no sense of humor**
Would you take another shot at love? Or just settle on a friend with benefits?
Twenty-five-year-old Natalie Davenport lugs substantial baggage. One boyfriend after the next has been a total disaster, leaving Natalie distrustful toward the male population in general. So when Colin Hampton crosses her path, she’s cautious. Her heart (and some other body parts!) nudges her to go for it, while her head wants her to run for the hills.
Colin is one of those gorgeous guys who attract women, no matter the age or marital status. With a successful career at a popular Seattle radio station, hard body, and charming personality, he is the complete package. But something dark lurks in the corners of his soul; some murky experience that has changed him—maybe for the better, but maybe for the worse.
Will he steal her heart and stomp over it like other guys did?
Will she let him into her heavily fortified world despite herself?
Or will they settle somewhere in the middle—establishing the emotional boundaries to protect them from falling in love?
**Almost Matched is the first installment in the Almost Bad Boys series. The books in this series should be read in order. They are not stand-alone books**
Almost Matched contains a BONUS EXCERPT from Almost Broken Up, the second installment in the Almost Bad Boys series.
A.O. Peart is the author of several novels. She writes in multiple genres, including dark contemporary, dark romantic comedy, romantic suspense and paranormal/urban fantasy.
She lives in the Phoenix area with her family and a chronically curious cat.
A LETTER FROM THE AUTHOR:
Dear readers,
I love hearing from you, so please visit me on Facebook and many other social media sites (links below), or write to me here, on Goodreads.
I have some facts and news to share with you:
Due to some serious health and family issues, I was on a few-year sabbatical, which means there were no new books published after December 2014, with the exception of a few multi-author anthologies I was invited to participate in.
In September 2016, I came out to publish the second edition (rewrited) of my dark romantic comedy series the Almost Bad Boys, and then I was back on my sabbatical.
Currently, all my books are pulled out from the bookstores to be republish under a different pen name.
I am also very excited to announce that I am working on the Almost Bad Boys series spinoff titled The Girl, The Knickers, and The Bloody English. It is Ali's and her love interest's book and even more hilarious than the original series. Wait to meet that super hot, witty and assertive man from London who'll sweep Ali off her feet!
Another novel in the works is Refuse Me, book #3/standalone in the romantic suspense series the McCoy Raven Brothers. It is a MC (Motorcycle Club) romance, and I can't wait to share the Nash's and Avery's story with you! I'm also toying with the idea of writing a whole new MC romance series based on the Refuse Me characters and their motorcycle club, the Hell's Ravens.
So, I have a lot on my plate, but I'm very happy to write again. I have the covers for both of the mentioned earlier books ready, and they will be revealed as soon as the books go on a preorder on Amazon.
Again, feel free to contact me with inquiries.
Best,
Angela
Find me here:
website: new website is in the works
Current Social Media (however, there will be brand new accounts for my new pen name)
*** Arc*** "Almost Matched" Absolutely Loved This Book!!!! The book is about a friendship between four fun-loving girls Natalie,Caroline,Ali,and Jena. They sure know how to have a good time and will have you laughing out loud. Ali and Jena's relationships with men are about having a good time with no strings attached more friends with benefits. Natalie is looking for more of the real deal, but she has had bad luck with men. When she meets Colin she's not really sure what she wants. Natalie soon finds out she's falling for Colin,he's totally hot and unlike all the other men she has dated. Natalie can tell there is a dark secret he's hiding,and it's definately not what she is expecting when it finally comes out. Will Colin's secret tear then apart? That will be in Book 2. This book was well written with great characters that draw you in and leave you wanting more. Book 2 could not get here fast enough!!!! Great Job Angela!!!! Bring on Book 2!!!!
Man, there are a ton of great reviews for this book! This won't be one of them. For me, Almost Matched was a stinker on many levels.
First, I thought it was supposed to be funny. Guess what? Not funny. At all. Natalie and her friends were goofy, but not funny. Oh look at us! We all sit around and talk about sex! Aren't we funny?! No. No, you're not. We made orgasm noises when we ate scones! Remember how I nearly didn't make it to the potty in time...because it was soooo funny?! Remember? Huh? Remember?! Uuuuuh... Tee-hee! We had a swordfight with a dildo and a breadstick! Sober! Did I forget to say that we did that sober? Aren't we hilarious?! *crickets chirping* So for humor, you get some sort of immature stuff that you might have laughed at...when you were twelve.
Second stinky aspect of the book? Their Heartbreaking Past Will Move You. Or at least, that's what the blurb says. I held out judgment on Mr. Wonderful's 'heartbreaking past', even though it seemed like it was leading up to something fishy. Surprise! It was truly heartbreaking! No. Just kidding. It was waaaay stupid. Ok. He has this mysterious 'thing' that troubles him. He seems to go to a dark far off place sometimes... By the end of the book he's having a debilitating panic attack because of this 'thing' in his past. Finally, we find out that his college girlfriend was killed in a drunk driving accident. But there's something he's not saying... *cue dramatic music*
I'm not crying over that one.
Third nail in the coffin was that this was a novella. I usually fly through them, but I had to force myself to keep reading this one. I couldn't believe something that short could feel like Game of Thrones. There was always another page! Ahhhhh! It's The Neverending Short-Story! What if my kindle was cursed?! You are now entering...The Twilight Zone. Or. It just sucked.
Lots of people seemed to love this book. I thought it was crap.
I received a digital copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
My first thoughts: I was quite afraid that I wouldn't enjoy a contemporary romance novel. This is a new genre for me and I wasn't sure it would be for me.
Writing Style: Almost Matched has some of the best writing I've ever encountered. Every character has a distinct personality that comes to life within the pages portraying genuine-raw emotion. An attention grabbing plot from the very beginning that ends with an unexpected twist that will leave you craving more, you won't be able to read it fast enough.
My opinion: A must read! I literally read this entire novella in two hours flat. Witty, fast-paced, humorous, arousing, and sarcastic... are all romance novels like this? If so, I've seriously been missing out! I just want book 2 right now, right now, not later! Can someone make this happen for me? Pretty please?
I laughed so hard at some of the scenes that I couldn't breathe and tears filled my eyes. It reminded of the girl's nights I have with my best friend and gave me some awesome ideas for our next get-together.
In many ways, Almost Matched has the feel of the show Sex and the City, but is so much better! I loved how all the women in this book were all so open about sexuality and shared a close bond with each other. Dare I say, it's not only men who have one track minds, and it's refreshing to see that demonstrated in a no-holds-barred kind of way! What I enjoyed most was the turmoil each of them faced, each with a different type of insecurity that every woman can relate to. Best friends forever, they are there for each other in the time of need, to build each other up, and laugh away their troubles! Girl Power at its finest!
The relationship between Natalie and Colin... *sighs* is so dreamy and passionate. Colin is nothing like I expected him to be... I won't spoil any details, but whew he's something special. When they are together, the world ceases to exist. Enough said. Just go read it and find out for yourself!
Are you still sitting here and fighting the urge to read this devilishly delicious book? Well, stop it already and make sure you do!
I was given this book in exchange for an honest review.
Very cute, author did very well on branching out from her previous writing genre With more writing in this style, it can only get better. The camaraderie between the 4 friends is great. Although Caroline is a prude and we don’t see much of Jena. Even though Ali wasn’t a main character, I really liked her. But we need to clean up her act a bit. Natalie and Colin are a good fit, hope it all works out for them. We were left with a big cliff hanger on this.
I have a love for snarky and witty authors! They have a special place in my heart. Then add some sexy scenes and I am a fan for life!
Almost Matched is a tale of a woman who is a partner in a match making business. Natalie and her College bestie, Ali, work together to find perfect life mates for some of the West Coast's most eligible bachelors and bachelorettes.
Natalie is running late from a girls night the evening before. A spur of the moment decision to cleanse Natalie from her last disastrous relationship. Unlike some of her crew who could just have no-strings attached bed buddies; Natalie was deeper than that. Even thought she couldn't argue that her body was telling her it might not be a bad idea. Running into the office late she realizes her blouse is now drenched with perspiration and the change of clothes that are suppose to be in her office are in Ali's. This leads to one of many awkward "Natalie moments", and it also leads to Collin.
Collin is a mysterious and well put together man from the outside. He has a sexy smile, intense stare and puts Natalie senses on high alert. Handing her his business card in traffic she then must decide. Call or not?
Well of course she call, DUH I would of! They start slow but as their relationship grows so does Natalie's insecurities that were seeded in her previous relationships. But there is also something wrong with Collin. Natalie knows there is something there but she doesn't want to push him, she wants him to let her in on his own.
There is a cliffhanger to this book and I am SOO happy I had book two ready, but I have a feeling that after book two I will be left wanting the next on!
I can SOO see myself hanging with Ali, Natalie, Carolyn, and Jena. These women are hilarious and their banter and situations are very relatable. I highly suggest reading about them and more of Angela's books!
I loved this book, it was a love story that was funny. I loved the story of Natalie & Colin, two people that have walls guarding their hearts. As the story progresses you see why they have the walls up and how love can conquer. I loved Natalie and the relationship that she has with her friends. There was one scene in the book that had me in tears from laughing so hard, I don't want to give it away but involves fencing with some unusual objects. I cannot wait to read more of the stories from the ladies. I highly recommend reading Almost Matched.
Almost Matched is my first book by A.O Peart. Being a Contemporary Romance novel it’s not usual type of read. But, I’m always willing to try something new so I went for it just because the synopsis sounded too good to pass up.
Colin Hampton is a charmer through and through. He’s handsome, hilarious and he can cook. But, everyone has their demons and his run deep. But when he meets Natalie, in a hilarious moment of indignity, he can’t help but want her. But, he remains a mystery to readers, he is a puzzle we must figure out.
"So what do you like to do in your spare time, besides exposing your half-dressed self to strangers?" ~Colin
Natalie Davenport runs a successful match making business with one of her closest friends. But, while they make matches for a living, she has a list of failed relationships. But, when Colin’s witty humor and persistence finally break through her wall, she can’t help but fall hopelessly in love with him.
Almost Matched has the best characters I have run into yet. The imagination behind the author completely brings their personalities alive. They had me laughing so hard at times I’d cry. Natalie and her friends will remind most woman of their closest friends. But, where there is laughter there will be pain.
"When I said I want to rush through the next date to get to the fourth one. It wasn't because all I want from you is sex. I'm truly attracted to you. I want to get to know you, and I want you to feel comfortable and secure with me. I would never do anything to jeopardize that." ~Colin
This is the first book in the Almost Bad Boy Series it will bring laughter to your ereader that’s for sure! If you’re a fan of Contemporary Romance, hilarious situations and sexual tension you will love Almost Matched!
I received a copy of this book in exchange for a review, from the Author. I adored this Novella The characters are well written, fun, flirty and not at all your average, whiney annoying female lead. Natalie and her bff's are all so different yet the best of friends and are cute, funny and keep each other laughing, which keeps the reader laughing .... Colin is sexy, smart and of course, has a few issues, but hes sweet and absolutely not your average neanderthal alpha. Colin and Natalie together, sparks fly !! They are an awesome couple and he is patient and kind and waits for her to be ready, and she is patient and kind and waits for him to be able to tell her about his not so wonderful past that haunts him. I cant wait to read the next novella .... i really really do hope they have their HEA Such a wonderful job on this Angela!! im honored that you let me read this for the review, and im kicking myself for waiting so long to get the job done ... it was well worth the read !!
'I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review'
Natalie is a successful business woman who just wants to find love. Unfortunately every guy she dates turns out to be jerks in one way or another. After having to run to work one day she decides to change clothes there but her spare clothes ended up in her friend and business partners office. She has to hurry as they have a meeting with a client so thinking it should be safe she runs to her friends office in just a bra and mini skirt and this is her first meeting with Colin. Colin runs into her on her way home from the gym and asks her to call him. She is unsure. She doesn't know if she can trust him but she wants to try.
Colin had a bad experience with a girl in college and he has not gotten close and opened himself up to anyone since. Natalie is different. He really wants to get to know her and once he does that's it he's caught. But being close to Natalie starts to bring up all the old memories.
I thought this was great! A very intriguing read. They both have some type of baggage. Colin seems so perfect at first. Then it seems as if he is hiding something. Distancing himself from Natalie. I think she comes to the same conclusion that most women would. But when the truth comes out, Colin says something that shocks Natalie and then......... yup, cliffhanger. Everything still seems so uncertain. I am eager to read the next one to find out where Natalie and Colin are going to go. I would definitely recommend reading.
I was given this book by the author, A. O. Peart for an honest review. This book is the first book of the series by the author.
After being dumped by her boyfriend Natalie is very cautious about men so when she meets a man does she want love and romance, a 1 night stand or does she want a friend with benefits? I love how this character tries to handle the emotions she has for Colin.
The only problem I have with this book is nothing. All the characters work well together and the story line just flows with everything that is being told.
Love, a 1 night stand or friends with benefits that is what Natalie has to decide what she wants from Colin when he walks into her life. Does she follow her gut or her heart for Colin.
This is a very good romance book for a mature reader because of some sexual situations.
I was given this book by author for honest review. I fell in love with best friends Natalie, Jena, Ali, and Caroline and their fun unique relationship we could all wish for. They tell each other everything and don’t worry with how it sounds or the hurt feelings it invokes because they know they will be there for each other. The book Almost Matched is about Natalie and her hook up with Colin, wonderful gentleman that he is, after their first meet when she’s only partly dressed. I could not help but laugh at some of the incidents that occur in the course of their relationship. I also couldn’t help but admire Colin and all he’s been through and am looking forward to book 2 in the series. A quick fun delightful read that I couldn’t put down.
I simply loved, loved this book. I could not put it down. I read it until 4AM in the morning because I had to see and find out how it ended. The group of girlfriends are just too funny and the relationships take turns. The main character Natalie was the one in the most serious relationship and there is a twist to it but, you have to read till the end to find out. I cannot wait until the next book and continuation comes out. I am hooked! :D
This was a fun quick read. You should be able to relate one or all of the characters. The characters were well thought out. Natalie has been hurt before and is cautious about love. But an accidental run in with Colin leaves her wondering what kind of relationship she can have with him. Natalie and her friends try to navigate their way through relationships,sex and more. Like I said it is a short quick read that leaves you wanting more of Colin, Natalie and her friends.
This isn’t the genre of novel I usually read to be honest, but despite this I was rapidly carried off into it by its infectious humour and, equally important, by the detail that Angela weaves into her narrative, and which makes the reader feel part of the setting, and I ended up reading it more or less straight through in one session!
Almost Matched is a fascinating mix of human emotions, and situations and scenes that either tug on your heartstrings or make you laugh out loud, as well as darker descriptions of the emotional baggage that some of the characters are carrying. Much of the humour - which is counter-balanced by the heavy drama that emerges in the latter part of the book - reminded me of Sex In The City, without however seeming to borrow from that series or to plagiarise it.
One of the author’s techniques that I especially like – and noticed in her Forged Series - are the little details she provides that often seemingly have no relevance to the story at all (e.g. a ceramic pitcher from Sicily) but which help the reader to feel that they’re really there with the characters. And I love her sense of timing – she seems to know just when to surprise you with changes of style – to suddenly bomb the reader with the vernacular or the absurd and make them laugh out loud.
I must admit to feeling a bit caught on the hop by what seemed like a fairly rapid transition between the beginning of Nathalie and Colin’s love affair and the sudden revelation of Colin’s issues, and wondered if they couldn’t have been revealed to us a little more gradually. But that might well be me simply wishing that the author had made the story last a while longer!
The only part of Almost Matched I was less than enthusiastic about were the occasional explicit descriptions of love-making – more detail than was really needed as far as I was concerned, though certainly well-crafted. No doubt a matter of taste and I can imagine other readers feeling that this helped them to relate to the mood of the characters and their emotions.
But that’s a small point - overall, I loved it. It’s both funny and gripping and the ending leaves you on a knife-edge. I can’t wait for the next book.
OMG was my first thought when I started reading Almost Matched in a good way. The characters are great. In the book there are four girls who are best friends and they tell each other how it is and having fun while doing it. Ironically two of the girls own a company together Natalie and Ali and it is a dating company. Natalie is unlucky in love and dates all the idiots having a rough morning getting to work to a meeting she has an unexpected run in with Colin in her bra and skirt. After the embarrassing incident she sees Colin again and he gives her his card to tell her to call him sometime. She calls Colin and they meet up and hit things off. She is falling in love with Colin and since she has dated losers she wonders when Colin starts to pull away. Will she find the answers she wants or will Colin who is seemingly perfect end up being another idiot. Only thing bad about Almost Match was that it ended and I wanted more cannot wait to read more of Natalie and Colin’s story and more of Ali, Jenna, and Caroline.
This is a great, short read! It's full of laughs and romance with some dark undertones. I really liked Colin and Natalie. He's one of those characters that draws you in and you want to know more, whereas Natalie is just fun and relatable. Outside of the romance, a lot of the story is about Natalie and her 3 girlfriends (it has a Sex in the City feel to it - lots of fun and laughs). The characters were realistic and the writing was good. The one thing that is different about this series is it's a novella, yet it's a series. I wouldn't call the ending a cliffhanger, but there is still a lot to learn about Colin and we won't find out about that until the next novella. I don't know, I just have mixed feelings because part of me feels that it should have just been completed and written as a book instead of multiple novellas (because the story is there for a book), but at the same time it was nice to be able and sit down and read a whole story while my daughter was napping. I would recommend this for a fun, quick read.
“Almost Matched” is like watching an episode of Sex and the City, except we have Natalie, Caroline, Ali and Jena. It was a good read. The girls and their relationship with the other sex is comical to the point where you start to wonder if something is wrong with the guys themselves or the group of girls; let’s just say these ladies like to have fun. There are moments that will make you laugh out loud. Natalie and Ali are business partners and while running late for a meeting she never expected to run into the boss of KZIX half- naked. Colin is swoon worthy and Natalie needs someone to put out her fire. The relationship is good until Colin starts to change, Natalie realizes she doesn’t know Colin at all and when his secret comes out her world falls apart. There is a lot more to this story and Colin and we get a glimpse of his story in a bonus chapter from book two.
I picked this one up because it was a free read and the idea of the woman who has lost her faith in love was appealing. I like reading stories where people find a way to believe in love again. It is often the ultimate feel good feeling.
I don't think that this book was completely awful, I don't want to give that impression by my dnf and low star rating. There were a few pieces of sparkle that kept me reading such as this:
"I know what I want. I want to be happy for a change, and not burdened with heartbreaks or disappointments. Just for once, I need a break. All those losers I've crossed paths with have drained me clean from my positive energy. They took all the upbeat goodness right out of me and left me overanalyzing the possibility of dating ever again."
There were other dollops of truth sprinkled through her that I also enjoyed. However, this woman said Sweet Mother of Jesus and Hell on wheels so many times that I was rolling my eyes. It wasn't even over something all that impressive or great. I didn't like how she was so cautious supposedly about getting into a new relationship and had all of like one day of going back and forth over whether she should give this new guy a chance, after that she was literally falling over herself or slipping in a puddle of wet vaginal fluid over any and everything that came out of his mouth. Which to me was not the actions of a hurt woman who is cautious and not sure if she is going to find love. The guy seemed to be alright, but since we don't get anything from his point of view and all that is presented by this point in the book are a few nice gifts from said guy and some romantic dates... anybody can do that and still turn out to be an asshole. I also found it odd that they have this entire build up to a fourth date and what is supposed to go down on that date and then skip over it entirely. At 55% in there has been not hot sexy time. The interaction between the girlfriends is ok, but feels like it's trying to hard, and the repetition of lines and descriptions were just getting on my nerves.
I think if I would have read this at a different time maybe I would have pushed through and finished it... It is just really hard to read really good well written books and then force yourself to finish one that is just alright.
My first thoughts: I was quite afraid that I wouldn't enjoy a contemporary romance novel. This is a new genre for me and I wasn't sure it would be for me.
Writing Style: Almost Matched has some of the best writing I've ever encountered. Every character has a distinct personality that comes to life within the pages portraying genuine-raw emotion. An attention grabbing plot from the very beginning that ends with an unexpected twist that will leave you craving more, you won't be able to read it fast enough.
My opinion: A must read! I literally read this entire novella in two hours flat. Witty, fast-paced, humorous, arousing, and sarcastic... are all romance novels like this? If so, I've seriously been missing out! I just want book 2 right now, right now, not later! Can someone make this happen for me? Pretty please?
I laughed so hard at some of the scenes that I couldn't breathe and tears filled my eyes. It reminded of the girl's nights I have with my best friend and gave me some awesome ideas for our next get-together.
In many ways, Almost Matched has the feel of the show Sex and the City, but is so much better! I loved how all the women in this book were all so open about sexuality and shared a close bond with each other. Dare I say, it's not only men who have one track minds, and it's refreshing to see that demonstrated in a no-holds-barred kind of way! What I enjoyed most was the turmoil each of them faced, each with a different type of insecurity that every woman can relate to. Best friends forever, they are there for each other in the time of need, to build each other up, and laugh away their troubles! Girl Power at its finest!
The relationship between Natalie and Colin... *sighs* is so dreamy and passionate. Colin is nothing like I expected him to be... I won't spoil any details, but whew he's something special. When they are together, the world ceases to exist. Enough said. Just go read it and find out for yourself!
Are you still sitting here and fighting the urge to read this devilishly delicious book? Well, stop it already and make sure you do!
I received an arc copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
It was a quick read that tells about Natalie Davenport about her relationship with her friends which shows that they despite having different personalities they each have each other's back. It also tells about her past failed relationships and despite them happening she still is a romantic by heart. Natalie meets Colin when she was running in late for a meeting half naked. Of course this puts her in an embarrassing situation and later only to find out that Colin is the boss of KZIX. After these encounters they started meeting up coincidentally until one thing leads to the other. Colin makes her heart flip and her other bits thinking for her. They just clicked together and burn the sheets but not all is happy in happy land. Colin becomes withdrawn and sad which Natalie notices. After talking to Colin after getting drunk one night he reveals a dark past but of course Natalie still accepts him until Colin tells another secret that well gives you the cliffhanger. And so book 2 is needed. At the end,there is sneak peek of two and well, will understand more of Colin's past.
I loved Colin. He’s one of those characters that as soon as he enters the picture, you know you are going to love him. He has the feel of an alpha male without the complete cave-man-istic tendencies. Wait until you see how he enters the picture too. I laughed. Out loud. I wouldn’t lie. I totally did.
There were actually a few parts in this book where I found myself giggling a bit. I love the relationship Natalie has with her friends Caroline, Ali and Jena. They are just a fun group of women who have each others’ backs. I’m glad Angela gave that group some focus. I think it was important to show the friendship support she had and how she supported them. It gave us more insight into Natalie as a person.
Natalie has been burned, more than once, and after running into Colin again, she lets fate decide whether she will reach out to him or not.
That was a cute scene.
Something is going on with Colin though, and it makes her doubt their very new fragile relationship.
Will he let her in before she gives up on them?
I can’t say.
That would ruin the whole surprise.
All in all, great book, love the romance, love the friends, can’t wait for the sequels.
I was sent the manuscript draft of this pending book. I read it within four hours, I really gave it my 100% attention right into the early hours.
The girls together are hilarious. The sword fight with the large pink dildo and the baquette I couldicture so well. Running some sort of dating agency they never got involved with their clients. However, SME of the friends had male sexual partners while another wanted the real thing.
One did find the real thing, but the relationship doesn't come without its problems.
Just reading this as a beta reader gripped me so when it is released in November, watch for it, its boo 1 in the series and I hope she remembers me for book 2! Its fab
~*~My Thoughts~*~ A 5 Star Read Let me start of by saying I LOVED this book!! After reading this blurb i thought this was so the book for me. I'm a huge fan of sarcasm lol. From start to finish i enjoyed every minute. I loved Natalie anyone that thinks with their vagina that much is awesome in my opinion. Colin was perfect I adored him. This book had a little bit of everything in it for me. I definitely suggest reading it, it was awesome!!
I loved this book! Really, Natalie is such an amazing character, I love her spirit and attitude. She is a strong female and that's something I love in my female characters. Feisty and sassy, you will love Natalie. Colin is a sexy, smart, and funny man really he is the whole package as far as a man goes. This story is a must read, best part? It's only book one of three! I love this series. I highly recommend.
Natalie, an entrepreneur of a matchmaking business, may have found her match. Colin becomes immediately enamoured with Natalie but his dark secrets might get in the way of their budding relationship.
The story followed a believable time line and I enjoyed getting to know Nat and her life before the action started. The only part I struggled with was after the scene of dinner at Colin’s house it cuts off and we don’t know what happens and then all of a sudden in the next chapter they are boyfriend/girlfriend?! I wanted to know what happened upstairs and how they made it official.
The characters were all well-developed. Ali was probably my favorite since she was so hilarious and quite a vixen. I enjoyed the banter between the girls and Natalie is a very likeable heroine. Natalie has a great sense of humor, isn’t shy, has great values, and is such a sweetheart. Even though she wasn’t flawed I still felt her character was realistic. I liked that Colin’s character wasn’t fully developed because it leaves a desire to read in the future to discover more about him.
I loved the writing style of this book- it was as if the reader is actually there instead of just reading a book. I also liked that there were pop culture references and the style of the characters was very age appropriate. Plus- Natalie had great fashion sense!
Almost Matched started off great for me. I enjoyed Natalie and her hilarious as hell friends. They were really what made the story enjoyable for me. I felt at the times the story dragged and I got bored.
Natalie is an independent business woman who is a strong and likeable character. She is late for a meeting and once she gets to work she goes to change her clothes but realizes her clothes are in her friend Ali's office. Since everyone is in the meeting room, she decides to make a mad dash into the hallway. And what do you know? She runs into Colin, in her pink bra!
I loved that scene, I think it really set the tone for the relationship to come. I was eager to read more. Unfortunately, that's where it all stops. Colin and Natalie's relationship was...well...it was boring. The chemistry I felt while reading their first encounter flew out the window once I continued to read on.
I don't really think I could possibly read the second one because I felt no connection to either character anymore. Like I stated above the only thing that I truly loved was Natalie and her friends. Which some reviewers have stated that they remind them of the Sex and the City gang. I agree.
All in all, this was an okay read. I won't be reading it again and I can't possibly recommend it to anyone.
*Review copy provided by author via NetGalley for an honest review
**ARC** Natalie Davenport never thought that her 9am meeting with a client would change the next few months of her life in a good way when she literally runs into Colin in only her Bra and Skirt coming out of her office. This book reminded me of all those movies you see where the girl has her group of gal pals that meet together and talk about all of life's worries over wine and everything Man related. Natalie doesn't know what she wants from Colin, either a Friend with Benefits or a long term thing. She has a lot of baggage from past relationships, if that is what you want to call them. She knows that once she meets Colin on their first date, that he is far from what she has experienced in the past. The book moves about as Natalie and her friends go through many problems in life and at hand. They always stick together and all the while all this going on, Natalie is second guessing herself with Colin for some reason. She isn't sure she is ready to let her guard down fully yet, since he keeps pulling away for some reason. Natalie has no idea that she isn't the only one hiding things from their past. Colin has a dark demon he is afraid to let out and it may just wind up tearing Natalie from him in the end.
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Natalie Davenport is late for a meeting with the advertising personnel from a local radio station in Seattle. She had been out drinking the night before with her girlfriends; her car wouldn't start after she didn't get up on time and then her taxi got stuck in traffic so she had to run the last few block a to her office. Intending to change clothes before going into her meeting, she finds her partners clothes in the closet in her office. Trying to sneak into her partners office, she runs into Colin Hampton. This begins the one of the most intriguing stories that I've read lately.
Natalie is terrified of being hurt so she doesn't really want to get to know Colin. Eventually, she does and it's not something that she regrets. However, she knows that he's hiding something from her.
This is an amazing book with several different elements. You have the friendship between Natalie, Caroline, Ali and Jena. Then you have Natalie and Colin's relationship. The plot flows so easily that I found myself at the end of the book before I knew it. And I was a little upset because I just didn't want the book to end.
I can't wait to read the next book in this series and more books by this author.
I really enjoyed this book. I would recommend it to all of my friends.
Would you take another shot at love? Or just settle on a friend with benefits?
TEASER: Their heartbreaking past will move you. Their passion will make you blush. Their antics will make you laugh out loud.
The whole time I read this book I laughed at Natalie and her friends. Ali tells her she needs a friend with benefit's, so she calls Colin, a gentlemen she met at her office. She falls for him. Then he starts to distance himself for her and she doesn't know what is going. But you will have to wait and find out...
Disclaimer This contemporary romantic comedy blends humor, sensuality, and angst, with zany characters and witty dialogue. You will laugh out loud while blushing in embarrassment. **Warning: contains sexual situations (some quite vivid!), profanity, and a high dose of sarcasm. Oh, and there is a lot of appletini and beer drinking. May not be appropriate for readers under 18 years old. Not intended for prudes and killjoys with no sense of humor** THE SERIES: The Almost Bad Boys series are the stories of four feisty twenty-something women who refuse to let their past drag them down.