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A Knight's Tale #1
Getting By
When Emma Anderson arrived at San Francisco International Airport, she regretted accepting the distinction of being the maid of honor to Gaby’s—her childhood friend—wedding. It had been years since the last time she set foot in Menlo Park, where her parents had been killed. The rug where she had been shoving her feelings since that day looked bumpier than a camel’s hump. Who could blame her; if she hadn’t been selfish they’d still be around. Ever since that fateful day, Emma has been perfecting the knack of Getting By.
Cade’s wedding in Menlo Park—a city close to San Francisco—might be the perfect place for Jake Knight to shake the memories of his ex, Emma Anderson for good. Single, available women galore for an entire week was the perfect medication, one he intended to take three times a day for an entire week to return to his player days. It was a plan the former spy thought flawless until he came face to face with the maid of honor. Jake’s perfect retreat turns into a flight, fight or hide week of celebrations.
Cade’s wedding in Menlo Park—a city close to San Francisco—might be the perfect place for Jake Knight to shake the memories of his ex, Emma Anderson for good. Single, available women galore for an entire week was the perfect medication, one he intended to take three times a day for an entire week to return to his player days. It was a plan the former spy thought flawless until he came face to face with the maid of honor. Jake’s perfect retreat turns into a flight, fight or hide week of celebrations.
235 pages, ebook
First published February 17, 2014
2 people are currently reading
962 people want to read
About the author
Claudia Y. Burgoa
142 books6,404 followersClaudia is an award-winning, USA Today bestselling author.
She writes alluring, thrilling stories about complicated women and the men who take their breath away.
She lives in Denver, Colorado with her husband and her youngest two children. She has a sweet Bichon, Macey, who thinks she's the ruler of the house. She's only partially right.
When Claudia is not writing, you can find her reading, knitting, or just hanging out with her family.
At night, she likes to binge watch shows with her equally geeky husband.
Instagram: http://bit.ly/ClaudiasIG
TikTok: https://bit.ly/CBstiktok
Bloggers/Influencers: https://geni.us/CBBloggers
Newsletter: https://geni.us/CBNewsletter
She writes alluring, thrilling stories about complicated women and the men who take their breath away.
She lives in Denver, Colorado with her husband and her youngest two children. She has a sweet Bichon, Macey, who thinks she's the ruler of the house. She's only partially right.
When Claudia is not writing, you can find her reading, knitting, or just hanging out with her family.
At night, she likes to binge watch shows with her equally geeky husband.
Instagram: http://bit.ly/ClaudiasIG
TikTok: https://bit.ly/CBstiktok
Bloggers/Influencers: https://geni.us/CBBloggers
Newsletter: https://geni.us/CBNewsletter
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
March 31, 2014
**Getting By generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.**
Getting By provides us with two broken people who find solace in each other yet cannot get past the broken parts inside them to make it work. While I didn't feel a strong connection to the characters, I definitely felt their connection was real to each other. Scarred deeply by the major curve balls life threw them, Emma Anderson and Jacob Knight work through their issues independently yet provide a comfort for each other that is undeniable. Emma and Jake's characters reminds us of the depth in which great loss causes to our hearts. Their plagued by guilt and unsavory memories. The secondary cast of characters here really makes the story come alive. The Knight family carries torches for each other, always. The bonds they all share and the openness in which they live endears every single one of them to the reader. Family is important to these people and can help conquer demons. It's a theme laced through Jake and Emma's story constantly reminding them and the reader the power of love in all forms. The story is not shy of drama, angst, and bit of mystery. The plot moves fluidly through their tale and kept me intrigued. Jake and Emma both provide POV's in the story. At times, I found the writing a bit confusing, I found myself having to go back and re-read passages to grasp what was going on. Subject changes and inside jokes that the reader wasn't privy too made it strange at times. I'm more than interested in reading the stories of the other Knight brothers, Mitch and Liam and look forward to spending more time with these characters.
Getting By provides us with two broken people who find solace in each other yet cannot get past the broken parts inside them to make it work. While I didn't feel a strong connection to the characters, I definitely felt their connection was real to each other. Scarred deeply by the major curve balls life threw them, Emma Anderson and Jacob Knight work through their issues independently yet provide a comfort for each other that is undeniable. Emma and Jake's characters reminds us of the depth in which great loss causes to our hearts. Their plagued by guilt and unsavory memories. The secondary cast of characters here really makes the story come alive. The Knight family carries torches for each other, always. The bonds they all share and the openness in which they live endears every single one of them to the reader. Family is important to these people and can help conquer demons. It's a theme laced through Jake and Emma's story constantly reminding them and the reader the power of love in all forms. The story is not shy of drama, angst, and bit of mystery. The plot moves fluidly through their tale and kept me intrigued. Jake and Emma both provide POV's in the story. At times, I found the writing a bit confusing, I found myself having to go back and re-read passages to grasp what was going on. Subject changes and inside jokes that the reader wasn't privy too made it strange at times. I'm more than interested in reading the stories of the other Knight brothers, Mitch and Liam and look forward to spending more time with these characters.
March 31, 2014
Complimentary copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
This is the first book that I have read by this author and I can assure you right now, she has been added to my “autobuy” list.
Emma is in her early 20s and has the career of her dreams. She lives, breathes, and dreams the advertising world and is a workaholic. She has no time for anything else in her world except work, which takes her mind away from all of the things that went wrong in her past. She lost her parents and may as well have lost her only sister. Upon their passing, secrets were revealed that turned her world upside and upset the relationships with her only living relatives, both sets of grandparents. Emma doesn’t need relationships; she has work, which is her main focus.
Jake is a smart businessman who turned a small nest egg into a fortune, with the support of his two brothers. Jake is a love ‘em and leave ‘em kind of guy. He has far too much going on with acquisitions and mergers to worry about a relationship, so when he first meets the quirky Emma by chance in a broken down elevator, his world is turned upside down and he learns the meaning of the word serendipity. What started as instant attraction between two strangers in an elevator, it turns into a two-year-long affair of chance meetings around the globe. Once things get a little too comfortable and start resembling an actual relationship, Emma makes a run for it, leaving Jake to wonder what went wrong.
A few months later serendipity makes a play again when both Jake & Emma find themselves attending the same wedding in California. This is the first time Emma has returned to Menlo Park, CA after the tragedy that changed her life. She’ll have to confront the ghosts that continue to haunt her, as well as deal with the feelings between Jake and her that are obviously still very much alive. Can Jake accept the secrets that Emma has been keeping? Are there even more secrets that members of Emma’s family haven’t discovered? This book will literally keep you on the edge of your seat with the twists and turns it takes.
When I originally read the synopses I was immediately intrigued. When I opened my kindle and started reading, I was hooked and couldn’t put it down. Ms. Burgoa has expertly created amazing characters with depth and mystery and a storyline that you just can’t let go. The book invokes such a range of emotions. There were moments of happiness, sadness, the heat between Emma & Jake was palpable and you could feel the affection that the families have for one another. This truly was an amazing book.
If I could give Getting By six stars, I would, it really was that good. Thankfully there is more to this story as this is the first in the series. I know I will definitely be looking out for the next installment. While this book is considered a New Adult romance, it is so different that most of the books that fit into the genre. Whether it is just because Ms. Burgoa’s writing is better than her peers or the storyline is just more mature than others I don’t know, but I truly feel as though this story stands out as one of the best books so far this year. Check this one out, you won’t be sorry.
This is the first book that I have read by this author and I can assure you right now, she has been added to my “autobuy” list.
Emma is in her early 20s and has the career of her dreams. She lives, breathes, and dreams the advertising world and is a workaholic. She has no time for anything else in her world except work, which takes her mind away from all of the things that went wrong in her past. She lost her parents and may as well have lost her only sister. Upon their passing, secrets were revealed that turned her world upside and upset the relationships with her only living relatives, both sets of grandparents. Emma doesn’t need relationships; she has work, which is her main focus.
Jake is a smart businessman who turned a small nest egg into a fortune, with the support of his two brothers. Jake is a love ‘em and leave ‘em kind of guy. He has far too much going on with acquisitions and mergers to worry about a relationship, so when he first meets the quirky Emma by chance in a broken down elevator, his world is turned upside down and he learns the meaning of the word serendipity. What started as instant attraction between two strangers in an elevator, it turns into a two-year-long affair of chance meetings around the globe. Once things get a little too comfortable and start resembling an actual relationship, Emma makes a run for it, leaving Jake to wonder what went wrong.
A few months later serendipity makes a play again when both Jake & Emma find themselves attending the same wedding in California. This is the first time Emma has returned to Menlo Park, CA after the tragedy that changed her life. She’ll have to confront the ghosts that continue to haunt her, as well as deal with the feelings between Jake and her that are obviously still very much alive. Can Jake accept the secrets that Emma has been keeping? Are there even more secrets that members of Emma’s family haven’t discovered? This book will literally keep you on the edge of your seat with the twists and turns it takes.
When I originally read the synopses I was immediately intrigued. When I opened my kindle and started reading, I was hooked and couldn’t put it down. Ms. Burgoa has expertly created amazing characters with depth and mystery and a storyline that you just can’t let go. The book invokes such a range of emotions. There were moments of happiness, sadness, the heat between Emma & Jake was palpable and you could feel the affection that the families have for one another. This truly was an amazing book.
If I could give Getting By six stars, I would, it really was that good. Thankfully there is more to this story as this is the first in the series. I know I will definitely be looking out for the next installment. While this book is considered a New Adult romance, it is so different that most of the books that fit into the genre. Whether it is just because Ms. Burgoa’s writing is better than her peers or the storyline is just more mature than others I don’t know, but I truly feel as though this story stands out as one of the best books so far this year. Check this one out, you won’t be sorry.
April 15, 2014
I have to start out this review by saying I loved the Supernatural references in Getting By. When a book has the words Dean Winchester in it, it has started off on a good foot. Favorite show. Made me happy.
Moving on from my obsession with all things Jensen Ackles.
Getting By starts out with Emma leaving Jake in the past. He is left confused and not knowing exactly why she said goodbye.
Then we started to get into their relationship, how they met, where they have been, etc.
They both head (separately) to California to attend Gaby’s (Emma’s best friend) and Cade’s (the Knight brother’s cousin/brotherish person) and thus the story gets rolling .
I really enjoyed Getting By, it was one of those books that I didn’t want to put down (like everything written by Claudia). I had things that had to be done yesterday on top of reading and I kept watching the clock saying I can read for 5 more minutes, 5 minutes go by, I can probably read for another 5 and still have time to get ready, maybe just another 2 minutes.
I wanted to know why Jake and Emma were the way they were, what happened in their past to make both of them shy away from relationships, what broke them? Why are they struggling so much to not be together when they obviously both love each other?
There are quite a few characters in this book that we get to know: the Knight brothers, their parents, and Emma’s grandparents. Then there are a few characters that left me wondering if what was going on with them was setting us up for future books, like Gaby and Cade. We needed them so that we could get Emma and Jake in the same location, but Cade’s feelings toward’s Emma… I’m wondering if that is going to come into play later on? I may be completely wrong. I know this is book #1 and I like to try to piece the puzzles together before I get to the actually resolution, whether that be now or in a future book. My wheels are constantly spinning while I am reading, seeing if I can guess where the author is going. Claudia is one of those authors whose mind I cannot read when I am enjoying one of her books. I have never been 100% right when I am guessing ahead and I love that in an author. I am not a huge fan of predictable and I love that she stays one step ahead of me.
The only thing I wish was that there was a little more to the end (I think that is a sign of a good book, when you want more). I don’t know how to describe it exactly because I loved the book, no complaints, the ending was just rather quick compared to how the rest of the book played out. I’m just kind of greedy and always want more from characters that I like.
Great book Claudia! I cannot wait to read more about the Knight brothers. Love those men!
Thank you for the copy of Getting By ~ A Knight’s Tale I that I was given to be able to do this review.
Moving on from my obsession with all things Jensen Ackles.
Getting By starts out with Emma leaving Jake in the past. He is left confused and not knowing exactly why she said goodbye.
Then we started to get into their relationship, how they met, where they have been, etc.
They both head (separately) to California to attend Gaby’s (Emma’s best friend) and Cade’s (the Knight brother’s cousin/brotherish person) and thus the story gets rolling .
I really enjoyed Getting By, it was one of those books that I didn’t want to put down (like everything written by Claudia). I had things that had to be done yesterday on top of reading and I kept watching the clock saying I can read for 5 more minutes, 5 minutes go by, I can probably read for another 5 and still have time to get ready, maybe just another 2 minutes.
I wanted to know why Jake and Emma were the way they were, what happened in their past to make both of them shy away from relationships, what broke them? Why are they struggling so much to not be together when they obviously both love each other?
There are quite a few characters in this book that we get to know: the Knight brothers, their parents, and Emma’s grandparents. Then there are a few characters that left me wondering if what was going on with them was setting us up for future books, like Gaby and Cade. We needed them so that we could get Emma and Jake in the same location, but Cade’s feelings toward’s Emma… I’m wondering if that is going to come into play later on? I may be completely wrong. I know this is book #1 and I like to try to piece the puzzles together before I get to the actually resolution, whether that be now or in a future book. My wheels are constantly spinning while I am reading, seeing if I can guess where the author is going. Claudia is one of those authors whose mind I cannot read when I am enjoying one of her books. I have never been 100% right when I am guessing ahead and I love that in an author. I am not a huge fan of predictable and I love that she stays one step ahead of me.
The only thing I wish was that there was a little more to the end (I think that is a sign of a good book, when you want more). I don’t know how to describe it exactly because I loved the book, no complaints, the ending was just rather quick compared to how the rest of the book played out. I’m just kind of greedy and always want more from characters that I like.
Great book Claudia! I cannot wait to read more about the Knight brothers. Love those men!
Thank you for the copy of Getting By ~ A Knight’s Tale I that I was given to be able to do this review.
July 12, 2014
Getting by review
Emma Anderson met Jake Knight in an elevator. Trapped for a few minutes, Emma intrigues Jake- more so when she refuses to give him her name, relying on serendipity to bring them together again.
Meeting again over the next few weeks, Emma finally gives in to him, and they start a "light and uncomplicated" relationship.
Two years later, Emma returns to Menlo Park for her childhood friends wedding. This time serendipity intervenes again, bringing her ex Jake to the same event.
Trying to avoid each other and their unresolved feelings, the party isn't going according to plan- making their old simple relationship that much further from the uncomplicated lives they want.
Told from alternating perspectives, this book is witty and unpredictable. Alternating perspectives help to get a better understanding of both of the characters and why they act the way they are. I really enjoyed this book, and loved all the other characters personalities and the impact they had on Emma and Jake.
Looking forward to reading the second book with Mitch's story.
Emma Anderson met Jake Knight in an elevator. Trapped for a few minutes, Emma intrigues Jake- more so when she refuses to give him her name, relying on serendipity to bring them together again.
Meeting again over the next few weeks, Emma finally gives in to him, and they start a "light and uncomplicated" relationship.
Two years later, Emma returns to Menlo Park for her childhood friends wedding. This time serendipity intervenes again, bringing her ex Jake to the same event.
Trying to avoid each other and their unresolved feelings, the party isn't going according to plan- making their old simple relationship that much further from the uncomplicated lives they want.
Told from alternating perspectives, this book is witty and unpredictable. Alternating perspectives help to get a better understanding of both of the characters and why they act the way they are. I really enjoyed this book, and loved all the other characters personalities and the impact they had on Emma and Jake.
Looking forward to reading the second book with Mitch's story.
July 12, 2014
I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Getting By is the story of two people who have experienced loss in their lives and how their relationship evolves over time. Emma’s parents are dead and all we know about her sister is that she is a troubled person who is estranged from Emma. Jake is a successful business man who was injured in a covert operation that killed the rest of his team. They meet once and sparks fly, but Emma feels she is not able to handle a relationship so she is determined to leave it up to fate to bring them together again. No names or numbers are exchanged, just some flirtation in a broken elevator. Fate does in fact, have plans for them, as they meet in different places, different cities, and finally realize they should listen to fate. Jake is perfectly happy with light and casual – just a fling – that is all Emma wants. Their casual fling lasts almost two years. They travel together, become friends and lovers, but share only parts of their lives. Neither one share much of their past or their hopes for the future, then one day Emma announces they are done. She can’t do this casual fling anymore.
But fate still has plans for Emma and Jake. Emma’s childhood friend is marrying Jake’s cousin. They never shared much about their personal lives and never meet each other’s families, so they are both surprised to see the other turn up at the pre-wedding festivities after three months apart. Emma doesn’t really want to be there because she is returning to the place she grew up and where her parents died. It is pretty apparent she has never really accepted their loss and that she feels some blame for their deaths. Jake is still trying to move on from Emma, the girl he can’t get out of his mind, but he never wanted more than light and casual. Or so he keeps telling himself.
We get to know Jake’s family as they meet Emma and as she begins to open up to them, in ways she never did to Jake, we get to know more about her past and what motivates her. Jake begins to realize the feelings he has for Emma are far more than light and casual, but he doesn’t feel that he can ever give someone a happy life because of the guilt he feels over the loss of the team of men he once led. Emma is also having a difficult time keeping her feelings for Jake at bay, knowing he can never give her what she realizes she really wants.
I really liked how the author took you on a journey with these two people. This was not a whirlwind romance with easy solutions, but a real life, slow path to trust, love, forgiveness, and family. The story was a bit awkward initially, as it told about Jake and his brothers businesses and the fact that his younger brother is Emma’s boss. It took a little while to build up steam, but once it did, the story was worth the wait.
This was the first thing I read by Claudia Burgoa but it won’t be my last. I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
Getting By is the story of two people who have experienced loss in their lives and how their relationship evolves over time. Emma’s parents are dead and all we know about her sister is that she is a troubled person who is estranged from Emma. Jake is a successful business man who was injured in a covert operation that killed the rest of his team. They meet once and sparks fly, but Emma feels she is not able to handle a relationship so she is determined to leave it up to fate to bring them together again. No names or numbers are exchanged, just some flirtation in a broken elevator. Fate does in fact, have plans for them, as they meet in different places, different cities, and finally realize they should listen to fate. Jake is perfectly happy with light and casual – just a fling – that is all Emma wants. Their casual fling lasts almost two years. They travel together, become friends and lovers, but share only parts of their lives. Neither one share much of their past or their hopes for the future, then one day Emma announces they are done. She can’t do this casual fling anymore.
But fate still has plans for Emma and Jake. Emma’s childhood friend is marrying Jake’s cousin. They never shared much about their personal lives and never meet each other’s families, so they are both surprised to see the other turn up at the pre-wedding festivities after three months apart. Emma doesn’t really want to be there because she is returning to the place she grew up and where her parents died. It is pretty apparent she has never really accepted their loss and that she feels some blame for their deaths. Jake is still trying to move on from Emma, the girl he can’t get out of his mind, but he never wanted more than light and casual. Or so he keeps telling himself.
We get to know Jake’s family as they meet Emma and as she begins to open up to them, in ways she never did to Jake, we get to know more about her past and what motivates her. Jake begins to realize the feelings he has for Emma are far more than light and casual, but he doesn’t feel that he can ever give someone a happy life because of the guilt he feels over the loss of the team of men he once led. Emma is also having a difficult time keeping her feelings for Jake at bay, knowing he can never give her what she realizes she really wants.
I really liked how the author took you on a journey with these two people. This was not a whirlwind romance with easy solutions, but a real life, slow path to trust, love, forgiveness, and family. The story was a bit awkward initially, as it told about Jake and his brothers businesses and the fact that his younger brother is Emma’s boss. It took a little while to build up steam, but once it did, the story was worth the wait.
This was the first thing I read by Claudia Burgoa but it won’t be my last. I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
April 27, 2014
This is a wonderful read. These are two people who have painful pasts that have defined how they see themselves. Each feel damaged and unworthy. Jake’s is from his work and Emma’s from losing loved ones and being cast aside from family members when they were grieving. They love each other and belong together though. Jake is a great guy, lost in who he is but wonderful none the less. He gives Emma up out of love for her. He needed to heal himself before he could give himself to her. Emma is a workaholic who changes because of Jakes family. She meets them after she walks out of Jake’s life at a wedding her selfish friend Gaby was the bride of. Gabe was marrying Jake’s cousin. Gaby is a gold digger and not in love. Another story though. Jake’s family is so loving and caring and they take Emma in as their own. Especially Mitch. Mitch whom you will adore. He is Jake’s twin and so sweet. He has attachment issues. But will not settle down for one girl. Liam Jake’s other brother is Emma’s boss and respects and likes her. These three brothers together are hysterical.
Jake is so protective and loving of Emma. He anticipates her needs, takes care of her and shows his genuine affection even if confused. It is when he has something happen he didn’t want Emma to see that he withdraws basically from life. He goes off to find himself and become a better man. To heal. When he comes back, Emma is a permanent fixture in his family and they still love one another.
Look forward to the next book especially with Mitch’s POV happening. A book of love and support. One the shows you need to heal yourself before you can find peace and happiness with someone. It shows love stands the test of adversity. A wonderful read.
Jake is so protective and loving of Emma. He anticipates her needs, takes care of her and shows his genuine affection even if confused. It is when he has something happen he didn’t want Emma to see that he withdraws basically from life. He goes off to find himself and become a better man. To heal. When he comes back, Emma is a permanent fixture in his family and they still love one another.
Look forward to the next book especially with Mitch’s POV happening. A book of love and support. One the shows you need to heal yourself before you can find peace and happiness with someone. It shows love stands the test of adversity. A wonderful read.
May 14, 2014
I've been reading a lot of NA novels lately and I'm pretty sure there's this standard formula already. Broken Girl + Perfect Boy = Messed Up Life Together (Or so they believe so one will stay away from the other) or vice versa. Or to the extreme that they are both broken. It's been getting a little too cliche-y already but I kept on reading NA novels anyway. Why? I'm particularly interested at how the characters will cope with their believed brokenness.
Getting By had that standard formula. Emma believed she was too broken to have a relationship because of her past. It bothered her a lot and I was too. What she experienced was traumatic but then I didn't feel how traumatic it was. It was all words for me and not emotions. She kept on blaming herself for what happened when she should have been looking at the greater picture. I know she was definitely in denial since she was being too workaholic. Work was her outlet. She kept herself busy so she won't think about anything else. Until Jake came. Emma's wit totally caught him. Me too actually. Her wit kept me laughing a lot of times. She may have a hard life especially at socializing with strangers and even estranged friends but she definitely has a great personality she saves only to those who deserves it. For the most part, I felt that she was just this vulnerable woman who can't seem to give herself away to someone especially not after what happened to her family. But then things change and so do people.
Jake too was broken. I can definitely say that Jake is one of those Godly bachelors. He's too young to have achieved all of those things. But then that's his character in the novel. I really don't mind anyway. He was protective when it comes to his loved ones and that says a lot. His attraction to Emma was undeniable. As much as I wanted to feel their connection, I didn't. Yet it was fine for me because I just know they belong together. Does that even make sense? Jake can't also take the risk. It was too much for him to handle. Between Emma and Jake, I felt that Jake carries a lot more burden because he was definitely in charge about the matter in his troubled past yet it didn't mean that what happened was his fault. Bad things happen especially at his line of work. Still he can't seem to let it go because it was that bad.
Jake and Emma's romance took on a toll but I know they'll end up together. I just know they belong with each other. They did stay away from each other but fate surely has another plan for them. I just didn't understand something at the last part. Jake was the one who doesn't want something and yet in the end, he told Emma that he'll wait until she's ready for it. It's a little confusing for me since I know Emma was definitely the one who wanted that something. ANYWAY. I might spill something up so I have to stop now.
What I loved the most about this novel is Mitch, Jake's twin brother. I can't seriously wait to read his story in the second book of the series. He's just so charming. End of discussion.
I cannot finish this review without saying that Claudia's writing is one of most flawless I've ever encountered. Is that even the right way to put it? It's just that her writing is so smooth and easy like the words came from her effortlessly without trying so hard. I'd be surely looking out for her other novels in the future.
You'll laugh a lot because of Emma's wit. You'll swoon a lot because of Jake's sweetness. You'll smile a lot because of Mitch's charm. You'll definitely feel safe because of Jake's family. You'll find peace and hope because of the love brought together by two people who have been lost.
Originally posted at The Bookish Confections
Getting By had that standard formula. Emma believed she was too broken to have a relationship because of her past. It bothered her a lot and I was too. What she experienced was traumatic but then I didn't feel how traumatic it was. It was all words for me and not emotions. She kept on blaming herself for what happened when she should have been looking at the greater picture. I know she was definitely in denial since she was being too workaholic. Work was her outlet. She kept herself busy so she won't think about anything else. Until Jake came. Emma's wit totally caught him. Me too actually. Her wit kept me laughing a lot of times. She may have a hard life especially at socializing with strangers and even estranged friends but she definitely has a great personality she saves only to those who deserves it. For the most part, I felt that she was just this vulnerable woman who can't seem to give herself away to someone especially not after what happened to her family. But then things change and so do people.
Jake too was broken. I can definitely say that Jake is one of those Godly bachelors. He's too young to have achieved all of those things. But then that's his character in the novel. I really don't mind anyway. He was protective when it comes to his loved ones and that says a lot. His attraction to Emma was undeniable. As much as I wanted to feel their connection, I didn't. Yet it was fine for me because I just know they belong together. Does that even make sense? Jake can't also take the risk. It was too much for him to handle. Between Emma and Jake, I felt that Jake carries a lot more burden because he was definitely in charge about the matter in his troubled past yet it didn't mean that what happened was his fault. Bad things happen especially at his line of work. Still he can't seem to let it go because it was that bad.
Jake and Emma's romance took on a toll but I know they'll end up together. I just know they belong with each other. They did stay away from each other but fate surely has another plan for them. I just didn't understand something at the last part. Jake was the one who doesn't want something and yet in the end, he told Emma that he'll wait until she's ready for it. It's a little confusing for me since I know Emma was definitely the one who wanted that something. ANYWAY. I might spill something up so I have to stop now.
What I loved the most about this novel is Mitch, Jake's twin brother. I can't seriously wait to read his story in the second book of the series. He's just so charming. End of discussion.
I cannot finish this review without saying that Claudia's writing is one of most flawless I've ever encountered. Is that even the right way to put it? It's just that her writing is so smooth and easy like the words came from her effortlessly without trying so hard. I'd be surely looking out for her other novels in the future.
You'll laugh a lot because of Emma's wit. You'll swoon a lot because of Jake's sweetness. You'll smile a lot because of Mitch's charm. You'll definitely feel safe because of Jake's family. You'll find peace and hope because of the love brought together by two people who have been lost.
Originally posted at The Bookish Confections
June 2, 2014
Two Broken Souls
How long does it take to destroy a life or a family…not long. A situation arises, tempers flare, hurtful words are spoken and wrong decisions are made in the heat of the moment. Sometimes these actions are not able to be resolved, which is the case for our first main character, Emma Anderson. If only she hadn’t gone to bed that night hating her parents. You never know what life and or fate has in store for you. You may never get the chance to make amends. Emma is only twenty years old. In her short life she has experienced so much heartache and deep tragedy. Her soul is completely broken. The only escape she has from her painful memories is when she is working, thus a workaholic is born. She has no desire for romance, love or even a one night stand. Work is her lifeline.
Meet Jake Knight. He is our second main character in this contemporary romance story. He’s the product of a strong, close knit loving family. His parents are phenomenal. His brothers are amazing in their own right, fiercely protective and loyal to each other. Wanting to make the world a better place, Jake joins a secret “unofficial” government military agency. His training is comparable to that of a Navy Seal. Jake spends three long horrendous years with the agency. He became a strong leader and was very proud of his men. On his last mission his unit is hit hard. Jake was the only survivor. That night he became a broken soul.
Years later, fate steps in and these two meet when an elevator their sharing breaks down. Sparks fly! Both are scared of any kind of commitment. Jake and Emma decide the only way their friendship can survive is if they keep things light and uncomplicated. After two years of a casual, no strings attached fling, Emma realizes the walls she’s built around her heart are starting to crumble and she knows Jake’s are holding strong. Abruptly Emma ends the relationship. A sad and stunned Jake starts to pine for Emma.
Three months later Jake and Emma find themselves at the same wedding. Will their hidden painful pasts be too much for them to overcome?
For me, the criteria for a great book has to have the following: a solid storyline, complicated characters, deep heartfelt emotions and an exciting ending. In my opinion, author Claudia Y. Burgoa has done an excellent job doing just that!
Getting By, is the first book in a four book series. I’m looking forward to reading the entire series.
Stephanie Lasley, from The Kindle Book Review
The Kindle Book Review received a free copy of this book for an independent, fair, and honest review. We are not associated with the author or Amazon.
How long does it take to destroy a life or a family…not long. A situation arises, tempers flare, hurtful words are spoken and wrong decisions are made in the heat of the moment. Sometimes these actions are not able to be resolved, which is the case for our first main character, Emma Anderson. If only she hadn’t gone to bed that night hating her parents. You never know what life and or fate has in store for you. You may never get the chance to make amends. Emma is only twenty years old. In her short life she has experienced so much heartache and deep tragedy. Her soul is completely broken. The only escape she has from her painful memories is when she is working, thus a workaholic is born. She has no desire for romance, love or even a one night stand. Work is her lifeline.
Meet Jake Knight. He is our second main character in this contemporary romance story. He’s the product of a strong, close knit loving family. His parents are phenomenal. His brothers are amazing in their own right, fiercely protective and loyal to each other. Wanting to make the world a better place, Jake joins a secret “unofficial” government military agency. His training is comparable to that of a Navy Seal. Jake spends three long horrendous years with the agency. He became a strong leader and was very proud of his men. On his last mission his unit is hit hard. Jake was the only survivor. That night he became a broken soul.
Years later, fate steps in and these two meet when an elevator their sharing breaks down. Sparks fly! Both are scared of any kind of commitment. Jake and Emma decide the only way their friendship can survive is if they keep things light and uncomplicated. After two years of a casual, no strings attached fling, Emma realizes the walls she’s built around her heart are starting to crumble and she knows Jake’s are holding strong. Abruptly Emma ends the relationship. A sad and stunned Jake starts to pine for Emma.
Three months later Jake and Emma find themselves at the same wedding. Will their hidden painful pasts be too much for them to overcome?
For me, the criteria for a great book has to have the following: a solid storyline, complicated characters, deep heartfelt emotions and an exciting ending. In my opinion, author Claudia Y. Burgoa has done an excellent job doing just that!
Getting By, is the first book in a four book series. I’m looking forward to reading the entire series.
Stephanie Lasley, from The Kindle Book Review
The Kindle Book Review received a free copy of this book for an independent, fair, and honest review. We are not associated with the author or Amazon.
June 16, 2014
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
The blurb sounded like something I'd love, so I couldn't wait to start reading. Unfortunately this took a while for me to get in to. I didn't really feel any emotion and couldn't connect with the characters. I think I would have been more invested initially if the first couple of chapters had been set up as the prologue instead. Emma came off as kind of annoying, and Jake was very cocky- and not in a cute way. Ultimately, not very likable characteristics. Jake eventually started to grow on me, but Emma never really stopped be annoying. I think it was literally the last chapter before I actually really liked Emma. Their relationship dynamic also bugged me a lot; it was just constantly contradictory. It didn't really start to become overly frustrating until closer to the end, so it was tolerable. Emma's other relationships frustrated me to some extent as well. It felt like there were things that were left unexplained or that there were details missing with regards to both sets of grandparents. Maybe even a little with Chloe and Cade, too.
The story itself was nice and actually very sweet, but it was somewhat difficult to read. It just lacked something in the technical execution. Some of the word choices and phrasing felt a little...off; stiff at one point and then scatter-brained in another. I think it may have been more that the internal dialogue didn't always seem to match up with the character. That and the fact that there was way too much of it; these characters needed to get out of their heads more! There were also scenes that were described with far too many details, but then something else would be briefly mentioned, leaving me wonder 'who or what the hell was that about'. However, nothing was worse than the punctuation.
The comma situation needs serious work. There were commas added in places where they weren't needed and commas missing when they were needed, and that's not including the inconsistent use of the Oxford comma, which is VERY important. And then there were the dashes. I think there must have been at least one on every page, and they weren't always used correctly either. At times quotation marks or commas would have been much better suited than a dash. I feel like it needs to be said that incorrect punctuation really messes with the flow of anything you're reading. There were several times I had to go back and re-read a line in order to understand the mood of the sentence.
While I enjoyed the story, the writing style ultimately didn't work for me. I liked the other Knight brothers, but I'm not sure I'll be continuing the series.
The blurb sounded like something I'd love, so I couldn't wait to start reading. Unfortunately this took a while for me to get in to. I didn't really feel any emotion and couldn't connect with the characters. I think I would have been more invested initially if the first couple of chapters had been set up as the prologue instead. Emma came off as kind of annoying, and Jake was very cocky- and not in a cute way. Ultimately, not very likable characteristics. Jake eventually started to grow on me, but Emma never really stopped be annoying. I think it was literally the last chapter before I actually really liked Emma. Their relationship dynamic also bugged me a lot; it was just constantly contradictory. It didn't really start to become overly frustrating until closer to the end, so it was tolerable. Emma's other relationships frustrated me to some extent as well. It felt like there were things that were left unexplained or that there were details missing with regards to both sets of grandparents. Maybe even a little with Chloe and Cade, too.
The story itself was nice and actually very sweet, but it was somewhat difficult to read. It just lacked something in the technical execution. Some of the word choices and phrasing felt a little...off; stiff at one point and then scatter-brained in another. I think it may have been more that the internal dialogue didn't always seem to match up with the character. That and the fact that there was way too much of it; these characters needed to get out of their heads more! There were also scenes that were described with far too many details, but then something else would be briefly mentioned, leaving me wonder 'who or what the hell was that about'. However, nothing was worse than the punctuation.
The comma situation needs serious work. There were commas added in places where they weren't needed and commas missing when they were needed, and that's not including the inconsistent use of the Oxford comma, which is VERY important. And then there were the dashes. I think there must have been at least one on every page, and they weren't always used correctly either. At times quotation marks or commas would have been much better suited than a dash. I feel like it needs to be said that incorrect punctuation really messes with the flow of anything you're reading. There were several times I had to go back and re-read a line in order to understand the mood of the sentence.
While I enjoyed the story, the writing style ultimately didn't work for me. I liked the other Knight brothers, but I'm not sure I'll be continuing the series.
July 22, 2014
Getting By is the first novel in the A Knight's Tale series following the Knight brothers. This novel not only has the perfect romance but it also has fantastic characters, ones you can't help but fall in love with.
Emma and Jake have been sex buddies for two years, but when things happen in Emma's life that she can't control, she decides to break it off. Three months later, they both find themselves at the exact same wedding, with no way of getting out of it for a whole week. Will the couple work out their problems, and break through their crazy past to get together, or will it all fall apart?
I personally never read contemporary books, but I decided to branch out and give this book a try, and I am so glad I did. I ended up loving Emma and the Knight family, they were all so unique and amazing,(the boys were pretty hot too) you just couldn't help but like them all. And the romance was absolutely perfect.
I love Emma as a character, I definitely feel like I could relate to her issues, and if I had to go through her crazy past with her, I would probably end up doing just as she did with her lifestyle. It was so amazing to watch her grow and open up to the family, I was cheering her on the whole time.
If only I had a Jake Knight in my life, I definitely wouldn't have let him go in the first place. Jake is one sexy man! Not only is he hot, but he's also a caring individual, he will open doors for you, and protect you from any danger. I love men who even though are super hot, aren't cocky(You don't find that very often). Jake does have some baggage with him though, with a crazy past, a meddling mom and some commitment issues, he's definitely not the perfect man everyone believes him to be.
The romance in this book was definitely realistic, I feel like a lot of people could relate to it, or even a part of it. Going into this book, I was worried that it would have a lot of crazy sex scenes, but to my surprise it didn't. Obviously there were some, and yes they were pretty good. Yet throughout most of the book, we didn't actually see the characters get together due to them being broken up. I fee like the author did an amazing job with this, it gets you to hold out for such a long time, that when the characters finally do get together, it creates a perfect moment.
This book definitely hit me right in my soft spot, and I absolutely can't wait to continue reading the series when the other books come out. I highly recommend these books to all romance lovers, even ones that usually don't read books that just revolve around romance. You will enjoy it.
Happy Reading,
-Aneta
Emma and Jake have been sex buddies for two years, but when things happen in Emma's life that she can't control, she decides to break it off. Three months later, they both find themselves at the exact same wedding, with no way of getting out of it for a whole week. Will the couple work out their problems, and break through their crazy past to get together, or will it all fall apart?
I personally never read contemporary books, but I decided to branch out and give this book a try, and I am so glad I did. I ended up loving Emma and the Knight family, they were all so unique and amazing,(the boys were pretty hot too) you just couldn't help but like them all. And the romance was absolutely perfect.
I love Emma as a character, I definitely feel like I could relate to her issues, and if I had to go through her crazy past with her, I would probably end up doing just as she did with her lifestyle. It was so amazing to watch her grow and open up to the family, I was cheering her on the whole time.
If only I had a Jake Knight in my life, I definitely wouldn't have let him go in the first place. Jake is one sexy man! Not only is he hot, but he's also a caring individual, he will open doors for you, and protect you from any danger. I love men who even though are super hot, aren't cocky(You don't find that very often). Jake does have some baggage with him though, with a crazy past, a meddling mom and some commitment issues, he's definitely not the perfect man everyone believes him to be.
The romance in this book was definitely realistic, I feel like a lot of people could relate to it, or even a part of it. Going into this book, I was worried that it would have a lot of crazy sex scenes, but to my surprise it didn't. Obviously there were some, and yes they were pretty good. Yet throughout most of the book, we didn't actually see the characters get together due to them being broken up. I fee like the author did an amazing job with this, it gets you to hold out for such a long time, that when the characters finally do get together, it creates a perfect moment.
This book definitely hit me right in my soft spot, and I absolutely can't wait to continue reading the series when the other books come out. I highly recommend these books to all romance lovers, even ones that usually don't read books that just revolve around romance. You will enjoy it.
Happy Reading,
-Aneta
December 14, 2020
Twenty-year-old Emma still blames herself for the death of her parents, convinced that their tragic accident was her fault. Revisiting the city where they died is the last thing she wants to do, but when she's roped into being the maid of honor at her best childhood friend's wedding, she finds herself on a plane back to the home she left behind.
Jake is becoming an expert at avoidance, intent upon running from the memory of his ex -- right into the arms of far too many available women. A wedding is the perfect opportunity, filled with beautiful women wearing rose colored glasses and their hearts on their sleeves.
Neither one of them is looking for a relationship, but the first thing they find is the last thing they're looking for...
I wasn't sure about this one, since heavy angst isn't usually my thing, but it was put together so well that I couldn't stop reading.
Emma's guilt is practically a character of its own, and it's impossible not to feel for her, especially since the author does such a great job of making us understand how incredibly much Emma's family meant to her. On the surface, she's the wrong fit for Jake, but their chemistry is undeniable, and with his recent heartache, they really are perfect for each other. Emma tries to keep her pain below the surface, but it colors everything she does, and emerging from that numbing darkness isn't easy.
Jake is impossible not to love, even if he's handling his own pain by going with that typical male reaction -- closing himself off to the possibility of kindling something new. But despite his efforts, there's a pull toward Emma that he just can't resist, and they both find themselves struggling to overcome what weighs them down.
What I thought would be a somewhat typical love story turned out to be a character mystery, at times heavy in guilt and pain, and at other times rich with family and friendships. Neither Jake nor Emma played to the standard romance novel bits I expected, and their story kept me guessing throughout. Getting By is a refreshingly well-written story about two hurt people finding redemption and hope in each other.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Jake is becoming an expert at avoidance, intent upon running from the memory of his ex -- right into the arms of far too many available women. A wedding is the perfect opportunity, filled with beautiful women wearing rose colored glasses and their hearts on their sleeves.
Neither one of them is looking for a relationship, but the first thing they find is the last thing they're looking for...
I wasn't sure about this one, since heavy angst isn't usually my thing, but it was put together so well that I couldn't stop reading.
Emma's guilt is practically a character of its own, and it's impossible not to feel for her, especially since the author does such a great job of making us understand how incredibly much Emma's family meant to her. On the surface, she's the wrong fit for Jake, but their chemistry is undeniable, and with his recent heartache, they really are perfect for each other. Emma tries to keep her pain below the surface, but it colors everything she does, and emerging from that numbing darkness isn't easy.
Jake is impossible not to love, even if he's handling his own pain by going with that typical male reaction -- closing himself off to the possibility of kindling something new. But despite his efforts, there's a pull toward Emma that he just can't resist, and they both find themselves struggling to overcome what weighs them down.
What I thought would be a somewhat typical love story turned out to be a character mystery, at times heavy in guilt and pain, and at other times rich with family and friendships. Neither Jake nor Emma played to the standard romance novel bits I expected, and their story kept me guessing throughout. Getting By is a refreshingly well-written story about two hurt people finding redemption and hope in each other.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 2, 2015
Getting By encompasses the notion that you have to grab onto happiness with both hands and believe that you deserve it. The characters are charismatic, when you read this you will wish you could be taken into the Knight family too :)
Emma is an emotional minefield, tragedy lead to the collapse of her family, secrets and lies are uncovered with bitterness and blame directed at Emma. As the plot progresses and more is revealed about Emma’s family you can’t help but question her devotion to them. They really messed her up making her barriers almost impenetrable. She doesn’t view herself as good enough to deserve anyone’s love. Terrified to get close to someone in case she looses them. Although she truly does have it all, brains, beauty and a wonderful sense of humor; she draws people to her.
The dual narrative, as always, provides insight and understanding to the characters actions, interactions and relationships. While they have an agreement to keep their relationship casual, there is no denying that they are both masking their feelings for each other. The use of fate/destiny/serendipity was ingeniously used within the narrative giving the ideal of soul-mates more credibility.
I adored Jake in all his alpha-male, superhero hotness; although he has his own emotional barriers preventing him from being open with Emma. What happens when ‘casual’ needs to become more but your own fears prevent you from taking that step forward. Your own personal hell happens – unless you break down those barriers and let the other person in. Confronting your fears and making peace with yourself and the things that have shaped you are at the forefront of the plot.
Getting By is an emotional, character driven story that pulls you in and makes you fall in love with each and every character.
Emma is an emotional minefield, tragedy lead to the collapse of her family, secrets and lies are uncovered with bitterness and blame directed at Emma. As the plot progresses and more is revealed about Emma’s family you can’t help but question her devotion to them. They really messed her up making her barriers almost impenetrable. She doesn’t view herself as good enough to deserve anyone’s love. Terrified to get close to someone in case she looses them. Although she truly does have it all, brains, beauty and a wonderful sense of humor; she draws people to her.
The dual narrative, as always, provides insight and understanding to the characters actions, interactions and relationships. While they have an agreement to keep their relationship casual, there is no denying that they are both masking their feelings for each other. The use of fate/destiny/serendipity was ingeniously used within the narrative giving the ideal of soul-mates more credibility.
I adored Jake in all his alpha-male, superhero hotness; although he has his own emotional barriers preventing him from being open with Emma. What happens when ‘casual’ needs to become more but your own fears prevent you from taking that step forward. Your own personal hell happens – unless you break down those barriers and let the other person in. Confronting your fears and making peace with yourself and the things that have shaped you are at the forefront of the plot.
Getting By is an emotional, character driven story that pulls you in and makes you fall in love with each and every character.
July 12, 2014
Getting By goes back and forth between Emma and Jake's perspectives. And it's obvious as well as mentioned in the chapter headings. This allows us to understand both of their perspectives(even though at times I felt like both were a little...crazy for some of their actions, even when we know their thoughts.). We are also given much of their shared history before getting into the main part of the book. This allows a deeper understanding of both characters, and their shared past, although we still don't know a whole lot about their separate pasts until later in the book.
I think that Getting By sticks really close to real life. In fact, Emma's a bit screwed up and while some of it is her cross to bear, it's also because of some of the issues that her parents helped to create. I'm not saying that everyone is going to be like Emma. But I do think that parents, while trying their best, can also create issues in their own children. And we see this in Getting By, Emma isn't an artist even though she really wanted to be when she was younger, because her father disapproved of it and after his death she was trying to make him proud.
It wasn't hard to read Getting By even with both characters having their moments of stupidity. It was fun to see the two battle their feelings for each other and the reader is entertained by their problems and how they work through things.
Find this review and many more at Reading Shy With Aly
I think that Getting By sticks really close to real life. In fact, Emma's a bit screwed up and while some of it is her cross to bear, it's also because of some of the issues that her parents helped to create. I'm not saying that everyone is going to be like Emma. But I do think that parents, while trying their best, can also create issues in their own children. And we see this in Getting By, Emma isn't an artist even though she really wanted to be when she was younger, because her father disapproved of it and after his death she was trying to make him proud.
It wasn't hard to read Getting By even with both characters having their moments of stupidity. It was fun to see the two battle their feelings for each other and the reader is entertained by their problems and how they work through things.
Find this review and many more at Reading Shy With Aly
April 20, 2014
I have now read this book three times and every time I find more to like about it. The Knight brothers are all intriguing, engaging, and oh so handsome. What more could we want in a leading man?
This is a story of two people afraid of what commitment might entail. At the same time, I cannot think of two people needing each other more. This book is written from the POV's of our two characters and gives us the unique perspective only each character can share.
Jake is the boyfriend we dream of but never quite find. Only drawback, his fear of commitment and his fear of failure. For such an intelligent, successful man this is contradictory until you read about what made him this way.
Emma has survived a horrible ordeal that took her parents' lives. She is independent and strong willed, but in desperate need of love and acceptance. No one would ever believe this successful woman was so crippled inside.
I love the plotline of this book. I love how serendipity plays with our characters and twists its way in to ensure they are thrown together when all is lost.
This is book #1 in the Knight's series. I hope our Author will release book #2 soon so we can continue this story. There is NO cliffhanger. This is a standalone... but there are other Knight brothers to hear about!
This is a story of two people afraid of what commitment might entail. At the same time, I cannot think of two people needing each other more. This book is written from the POV's of our two characters and gives us the unique perspective only each character can share.
Jake is the boyfriend we dream of but never quite find. Only drawback, his fear of commitment and his fear of failure. For such an intelligent, successful man this is contradictory until you read about what made him this way.
Emma has survived a horrible ordeal that took her parents' lives. She is independent and strong willed, but in desperate need of love and acceptance. No one would ever believe this successful woman was so crippled inside.
I love the plotline of this book. I love how serendipity plays with our characters and twists its way in to ensure they are thrown together when all is lost.
This is book #1 in the Knight's series. I hope our Author will release book #2 soon so we can continue this story. There is NO cliffhanger. This is a standalone... but there are other Knight brothers to hear about!
June 30, 2014
I give this book 5 stars. The characters are very complex and well written. The story is told from both sides of Emma and Jake. Emma broke up with Jake after a two year no-strings-attached affair because she was in love with him. He didn't know why she just ended it was morning with no explanation. Emma has trust issues from the murder of her parents and the aftermath. Jake is the only person who gets her. When she goes back to California for a friends wedding she finds out her friend Gaby is marrying Cade's cousin. They are in the wedding party together and she his parents and brothers take in her into their family. Jake has issues also from an incident where he was terribly injured and all his troops died. They both have survivors guilt. Can they rebuild their relationship and be what the other needs? I highly recommend this read.
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June 30, 2014
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed reading this book. At first it did move kind of slow but about a 1/3 of the way into the book the story really seemed to pick up. I liked how it told two different points of view, Jake and Emma’s. I felt this helped to let us know what each of their thoughts were and how they felt with what was going on in their lives. I really like the Knight family and how they always looked out and took care of the people they loved. I like how Jake and Emma both thought they were damaged by the things in their past but found out with love and support you can heal. I especially enjoyed the dynamic the brothers brought to the story. And I would be excited to read their story.
I really enjoyed reading this book. At first it did move kind of slow but about a 1/3 of the way into the book the story really seemed to pick up. I liked how it told two different points of view, Jake and Emma’s. I felt this helped to let us know what each of their thoughts were and how they felt with what was going on in their lives. I really like the Knight family and how they always looked out and took care of the people they loved. I like how Jake and Emma both thought they were damaged by the things in their past but found out with love and support you can heal. I especially enjoyed the dynamic the brothers brought to the story. And I would be excited to read their story.
June 29, 2014
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
***3 stars***
To be honest it was hard to get into this book. The blurb had gotten my attention and it seemed like a book I would enjoy but it started out kind of slow and it was hard to connect to the main characters. I probably would have stopped reading if I wasn't given this book for a review. Towards the end of the book I got into it more but it still wasn't enough for me to love the book. Even though I didn't love this book I will try to give the next one in the series a chance.
***3 stars***
To be honest it was hard to get into this book. The blurb had gotten my attention and it seemed like a book I would enjoy but it started out kind of slow and it was hard to connect to the main characters. I probably would have stopped reading if I wasn't given this book for a review. Towards the end of the book I got into it more but it still wasn't enough for me to love the book. Even though I didn't love this book I will try to give the next one in the series a chance.
July 11, 2014
I’m going to start here with my overall opinion. The story itself I would give 4.5 stars, the writing 4 stars. Had it not been for some writing issues (I’ll address these shortly), I would have said 4.5 stars. This was a story that I zoomed through. It’s a good thing that the story wasn’t too long, or I definitely would have shirked on some of my responsibilities.
The story starts with a prologue. I have to say here that it didn’t leave me wanting to read further. It was frankly sad, and it lacked anything that would leave me rooting for the characters involved. However, after reading the first chapter, I had to see where the story was going! This says a lot, too, because from the start, Jake was a one-night stand sort of guy; not one that I’d be into. But, Jake and Emma’s first meetings were so exciting that I had to start rooting for them. Getting both of their perspectives in the story really helped me connect to both of them.
Jake and Emma both have some serious issues, though. Both of them have some very ugly baggage. You don’t get many details, but I have to warn those of you that are sensitive to the issue, that rape is involved. This story is much more than just a romance. It’s full of drama and mystery, too. Plus, there’s a major theme of family that comes into play. The romance itself is what sucked me in. I loved that their relationship wasn’t all about sex. The bulk of the story takes place two years after they first got together. You’ll read that the start of their relationship was definitely based on sex, but that’s not the part of their relationship that you see first hand. As a matter of fact, there’s just a couple steamy scenes, but there’s no descriptions of actual sex taking place. While I’m on the topic of warnings, let me also say that there’s strong language used throughout, but it’s used sparingly and not in every other sentence.
The plot itself had a nice smooth pace throughout and never dragged. However, there was some confusion when it came to the writing a few times. A couple scenes I had to reread to understand, and then there was once or twice that I just gave up trying to figure out what was being said. It was distracting, but the story was definitely good enough for me to keep going. Then there were also a couple times where the characters actions didn’t fit their personalities, but again, not enough to keep me from pressing on. On a positive note, the story kept me on my toes. There were some twists that I never saw coming that really helped keep things interesting and kept the story from being predictable. Plus, the story really drew some emotions from me. I laughed and laughed for a good while, and then when things were at their worst, I was actually tearing up.
The only other thing I wasn’t crazy about was the ending. It was just too quick for me. I was just really left wanting more. So, I’m hopeful, because there’s more to come in the series. I fell in love with Jake and the other two Knight brothers, so I can’t wait for their stories!!
*I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.*
The story starts with a prologue. I have to say here that it didn’t leave me wanting to read further. It was frankly sad, and it lacked anything that would leave me rooting for the characters involved. However, after reading the first chapter, I had to see where the story was going! This says a lot, too, because from the start, Jake was a one-night stand sort of guy; not one that I’d be into. But, Jake and Emma’s first meetings were so exciting that I had to start rooting for them. Getting both of their perspectives in the story really helped me connect to both of them.
Jake and Emma both have some serious issues, though. Both of them have some very ugly baggage. You don’t get many details, but I have to warn those of you that are sensitive to the issue, that rape is involved. This story is much more than just a romance. It’s full of drama and mystery, too. Plus, there’s a major theme of family that comes into play. The romance itself is what sucked me in. I loved that their relationship wasn’t all about sex. The bulk of the story takes place two years after they first got together. You’ll read that the start of their relationship was definitely based on sex, but that’s not the part of their relationship that you see first hand. As a matter of fact, there’s just a couple steamy scenes, but there’s no descriptions of actual sex taking place. While I’m on the topic of warnings, let me also say that there’s strong language used throughout, but it’s used sparingly and not in every other sentence.
The plot itself had a nice smooth pace throughout and never dragged. However, there was some confusion when it came to the writing a few times. A couple scenes I had to reread to understand, and then there was once or twice that I just gave up trying to figure out what was being said. It was distracting, but the story was definitely good enough for me to keep going. Then there were also a couple times where the characters actions didn’t fit their personalities, but again, not enough to keep me from pressing on. On a positive note, the story kept me on my toes. There were some twists that I never saw coming that really helped keep things interesting and kept the story from being predictable. Plus, the story really drew some emotions from me. I laughed and laughed for a good while, and then when things were at their worst, I was actually tearing up.
The only other thing I wasn’t crazy about was the ending. It was just too quick for me. I was just really left wanting more. So, I’m hopeful, because there’s more to come in the series. I fell in love with Jake and the other two Knight brothers, so I can’t wait for their stories!!
*I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.*
May 8, 2014
“Serendipity…if it’s meant to be, you’ll see me again. So long for now.”—Emma
A chance meeting and Emma and Jake met. And then another chance meeting happened and another and another until Emma was convinced Jake was somehow bribing Fate. That’s fine, there’s no harm in a little light and casual fling. Well, two years later, Emma calls it off, and Jake can’t believe it. It’s a good thing he has Fate on speed dial, because he’s not letting the girl of his dreams get away—even if it means battling both his and Emma’s inner demons…
“Serendipity; can’t fight it.”—Jake
I have mixed feelings about this book. On one hand, I loved how Jake pursued Emma, but I was extremely frustrated about the barriers keeping them from going further. First told through Jake’s perspective, I didn’t like Emma, thinking she was cold and unfeeling. Once we switch over to her point of view (they alternate), I quickly learned that she wasn’t unfeeling—if anything she felt too deeply and I sympathized with her!
In the story itself, there’s a mix of extreme darkness and tragedy along with light-hearted moments of quirky humor so I while heavy, I wouldn’t call it a serious/dark novel and while funny in parts, I wouldn’t call it a light/comedy novel. There was a lot of characterization so we can see where our leads are coming from even though I didn’t necessarily agree with them (although I did side with Emma through most of it)! Even though I did grow to like Emma, I didn’t connect with Emma and Jake as much as I would have liked to and I ended up having Jake’s brother Mitch as a favorite instead.
The writing style feels like a friend narrating you a story by bringing you in at some points. The connections between all the characters were a bit surprising, and at times I had to reread a bit to clear up or understand better—this also had to do with some of the quirky tangents that Emma has. I really liked the fact that we got to see the start of their relationship as a flashback rather than a retelling. I’m on Emma’s side that Jake must have seriously been bribing Fate for them to meet up so much! We also get to hear what other people think of them and their ex-hidden/secret relationship since everyone is so open. One thing’s for certain: worst. secret keepers. ever! There were a few spots while although I thought it was sweet, I was face-palming and cringing.
I really liked the ending and thought it was fun, but what made it even better wasn’t in the story itself! My copy has a small excerpt from Mitch’s book that makes the ending so much funnier! I kinda wish that was included as an epilogue! Overall, the story was quirky with some dark themes and a low-medium heat rating with plenty of innuendo and sexual tension. This is a 3 out of 5 for me!
(Originally posted on my blog; I received a review copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.)
A chance meeting and Emma and Jake met. And then another chance meeting happened and another and another until Emma was convinced Jake was somehow bribing Fate. That’s fine, there’s no harm in a little light and casual fling. Well, two years later, Emma calls it off, and Jake can’t believe it. It’s a good thing he has Fate on speed dial, because he’s not letting the girl of his dreams get away—even if it means battling both his and Emma’s inner demons…
“Serendipity; can’t fight it.”—Jake
I have mixed feelings about this book. On one hand, I loved how Jake pursued Emma, but I was extremely frustrated about the barriers keeping them from going further. First told through Jake’s perspective, I didn’t like Emma, thinking she was cold and unfeeling. Once we switch over to her point of view (they alternate), I quickly learned that she wasn’t unfeeling—if anything she felt too deeply and I sympathized with her!
In the story itself, there’s a mix of extreme darkness and tragedy along with light-hearted moments of quirky humor so I while heavy, I wouldn’t call it a serious/dark novel and while funny in parts, I wouldn’t call it a light/comedy novel. There was a lot of characterization so we can see where our leads are coming from even though I didn’t necessarily agree with them (although I did side with Emma through most of it)! Even though I did grow to like Emma, I didn’t connect with Emma and Jake as much as I would have liked to and I ended up having Jake’s brother Mitch as a favorite instead.
The writing style feels like a friend narrating you a story by bringing you in at some points. The connections between all the characters were a bit surprising, and at times I had to reread a bit to clear up or understand better—this also had to do with some of the quirky tangents that Emma has. I really liked the fact that we got to see the start of their relationship as a flashback rather than a retelling. I’m on Emma’s side that Jake must have seriously been bribing Fate for them to meet up so much! We also get to hear what other people think of them and their ex-hidden/secret relationship since everyone is so open. One thing’s for certain: worst. secret keepers. ever! There were a few spots while although I thought it was sweet, I was face-palming and cringing.
I really liked the ending and thought it was fun, but what made it even better wasn’t in the story itself! My copy has a small excerpt from Mitch’s book that makes the ending so much funnier! I kinda wish that was included as an epilogue! Overall, the story was quirky with some dark themes and a low-medium heat rating with plenty of innuendo and sexual tension. This is a 3 out of 5 for me!
(Originally posted on my blog; I received a review copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.)
June 18, 2014
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Emma Anderson has spent years pretending to be happy with her life, spending all of her time working so she doesn't remember what happened to her and why she is all alone. After a 2 year relationship of no strings attached with Jake Knight she put an end to the relationship a few months ago. Now she is attending a wedding as a bridesmaid to Gabby, her childhood best friend, but what she doesn't know is that Jake is also attending the wedding and they will be forced to spend a week together. What will happen? Why has she ended the relationship if it's clear that she still has feelings for him? Will they be able to get closure or is this a good opportunity for them to come clean and realize that they belong together?
When I read the blurb of this book, I thought it was interesting and I was curious to read it but as I started reading it I struggled to get into it and to like Emma - she seemed really cold, immature and selfish. Despite her sad story, I struggled to sympathize with her character but by the the end of the book my opinion had slightly changed, as I felt that her character changed a lot in a short period of time. With Jake, it was the opposite, at the beginning of the book, I sympathized with him, but by the end of it I was a bit frustrated with him because he seemed to change his mind a million times! First he said that he didn't want a permanent relationship with Emma or anyone, then he said that their relationship would be as permanent as Emma wanted, then he decided he couldn't do it because she deserved better, and then he changed his mind very quickly again... It's clear that both main characters have lots of baggage.
I was a bit disappointed with the story and some things were weird to me, like with all the connections between her friend and her family with Jake's family and they didn't know of this connection before the wedding? Didn't her friend know where she worked? Also, I felt like Emma changed a lot very quickly, after spending so long keeping things to herself she started telling everything about her story very quickly and to people she had just met (like Jake's mother).
I found myself a bit confused while reading this book at times. Sometimes the character was remembering something that happened a while ago and it wasn't clear when that started and ended. Because of this, I found myself asking what was happening and I had to go back a few pages to read again. Some transitions didn't seem very clear to me.
What I liked the most about this book were witty conversations between Jake and Emma and I also liked the beginning of their story, when they kept meeting in different places.
Emma Anderson has spent years pretending to be happy with her life, spending all of her time working so she doesn't remember what happened to her and why she is all alone. After a 2 year relationship of no strings attached with Jake Knight she put an end to the relationship a few months ago. Now she is attending a wedding as a bridesmaid to Gabby, her childhood best friend, but what she doesn't know is that Jake is also attending the wedding and they will be forced to spend a week together. What will happen? Why has she ended the relationship if it's clear that she still has feelings for him? Will they be able to get closure or is this a good opportunity for them to come clean and realize that they belong together?
When I read the blurb of this book, I thought it was interesting and I was curious to read it but as I started reading it I struggled to get into it and to like Emma - she seemed really cold, immature and selfish. Despite her sad story, I struggled to sympathize with her character but by the the end of the book my opinion had slightly changed, as I felt that her character changed a lot in a short period of time. With Jake, it was the opposite, at the beginning of the book, I sympathized with him, but by the end of it I was a bit frustrated with him because he seemed to change his mind a million times! First he said that he didn't want a permanent relationship with Emma or anyone, then he said that their relationship would be as permanent as Emma wanted, then he decided he couldn't do it because she deserved better, and then he changed his mind very quickly again... It's clear that both main characters have lots of baggage.
I was a bit disappointed with the story and some things were weird to me, like with all the connections between her friend and her family with Jake's family and they didn't know of this connection before the wedding? Didn't her friend know where she worked? Also, I felt like Emma changed a lot very quickly, after spending so long keeping things to herself she started telling everything about her story very quickly and to people she had just met (like Jake's mother).
I found myself a bit confused while reading this book at times. Sometimes the character was remembering something that happened a while ago and it wasn't clear when that started and ended. Because of this, I found myself asking what was happening and I had to go back a few pages to read again. Some transitions didn't seem very clear to me.
What I liked the most about this book were witty conversations between Jake and Emma and I also liked the beginning of their story, when they kept meeting in different places.
January 12, 2015
**This e-book was provided for me by the author and/or publicist in exchange for a honest review.**
I don't think I have read many New Adult books (not that I know of) and this book makes me interested in reading more of the genre.
Overall, I really enjoyed reading this book. I read it pretty quickly because I had a hard time putting it down, due to wondering what was going to happen next.
The Story:
I enjoyed several aspects of the story. It is told from two different point of views. Emma and Jake. I liked that I could see what was happening through both of their opinions. I felt that it was an interesting romance that pulled me in and made me want to keep reading.
I also loved that the author made a couple Supernatural references (I love that show). I love when books make references to things that I like and enjoy.
I did feel like a couple things felt a little rushed, but it didn't take away from the story or away from me liking the story-line.
And I loved that there were some twists and surprises that I didn't see coming.
I do hope to read the next book in the series when it comes out.
The Characters:
I really liked most of the characters in this book.
I especially found that the main characters were very well developed and had interesting back-stories.
The two main characters each had personal challenges and issues that they were trying to overcome. And I love reading books where the characters grow.
I really like Emma and Jake.
I also enjoyed the scenes with Jake's family, especially the Knight brothers.
I look forward to learning more about the characters in the next book.
My Recommendation:
If you like romance books that focus more on the relationship between the characters instead of the sexual aspect then I recommend giving this book a read. I also think if you are interested in the New Adult genre, then you should give this book a try. I felt that there was more than just a romantic aspect in this book and it was interesting and enjoyable.
This review can also be found on my blog: My Bookish Itinerary
This review was first published on my old blog: Her Reviews of Books Movies and Everything.
I don't think I have read many New Adult books (not that I know of) and this book makes me interested in reading more of the genre.
Overall, I really enjoyed reading this book. I read it pretty quickly because I had a hard time putting it down, due to wondering what was going to happen next.
The Story:
I enjoyed several aspects of the story. It is told from two different point of views. Emma and Jake. I liked that I could see what was happening through both of their opinions. I felt that it was an interesting romance that pulled me in and made me want to keep reading.
I also loved that the author made a couple Supernatural references (I love that show). I love when books make references to things that I like and enjoy.
I did feel like a couple things felt a little rushed, but it didn't take away from the story or away from me liking the story-line.
And I loved that there were some twists and surprises that I didn't see coming.
I do hope to read the next book in the series when it comes out.
The Characters:
I really liked most of the characters in this book.
I especially found that the main characters were very well developed and had interesting back-stories.
The two main characters each had personal challenges and issues that they were trying to overcome. And I love reading books where the characters grow.
I really like Emma and Jake.
I also enjoyed the scenes with Jake's family, especially the Knight brothers.
I look forward to learning more about the characters in the next book.
My Recommendation:
If you like romance books that focus more on the relationship between the characters instead of the sexual aspect then I recommend giving this book a read. I also think if you are interested in the New Adult genre, then you should give this book a try. I felt that there was more than just a romantic aspect in this book and it was interesting and enjoyable.
This review can also be found on my blog: My Bookish Itinerary
This review was first published on my old blog: Her Reviews of Books Movies and Everything.
February 23, 2017
First off, I want to say that I received this book in exchange for an honest review. I was contacted by Claudia Burgoa’s publicist and asked if the Denver Coffeehouse Book Club would be interested in reading this novel. I agreed to bring it to the attention of the book club and ultimately we decided to read the novel and we were lucky enough to have Claudia come to our book club to discuss her novel and her experiences as an author. Claudia is a new author that lives in Colorado so I was excited to give her book a chance, I was even more excited that the book club was willing to read a romance (we definitely do not read many romances).
I love reading romances because they’re usually quick, easy reads that do not require a lot of thinking and sometimes that is the perfect book to escape into. As some of you know, I love my romances. They tend to offer me an escape from my dull and sometimes dreadful life. They help me imagine what life with a boyfriend/husband, and a little… okay, a lot of drama would be. Ultimately they make me realize that sometimes reality is better than fantasy.
Getting By started off a little rocky. The writing style was something that I had to get used to but that might be because the last two book that I read were “The Shining” and “The Wolf Gift” and those books were slower reads. There were times where I was confused and found myself asking “when did that happen” within the first two chapters of the book. I even reread those two chapters twice looking for a kiss that was interrupted by a pedestrian and I have to admit, I am still a little confused.
With the rocky start I was not expecting to like this novel but by a few chapters I was interested and genuinely enjoying myself. The characters in the novel were your stereotypical characters. The young woman is beautiful but damaged emotionally and the hero is attractive but damaged by PTSD. Both of them are living with survivor’s guilt and both are coping with their emotional trauma in similar ways.
Ultimately, the book felt a little jumpy to me. It didn’t seem to flow well in the beginning but by the end I was invested. I’m going to give this 3 ½ cups of coffee.
I love reading romances because they’re usually quick, easy reads that do not require a lot of thinking and sometimes that is the perfect book to escape into. As some of you know, I love my romances. They tend to offer me an escape from my dull and sometimes dreadful life. They help me imagine what life with a boyfriend/husband, and a little… okay, a lot of drama would be. Ultimately they make me realize that sometimes reality is better than fantasy.
Getting By started off a little rocky. The writing style was something that I had to get used to but that might be because the last two book that I read were “The Shining” and “The Wolf Gift” and those books were slower reads. There were times where I was confused and found myself asking “when did that happen” within the first two chapters of the book. I even reread those two chapters twice looking for a kiss that was interrupted by a pedestrian and I have to admit, I am still a little confused.
With the rocky start I was not expecting to like this novel but by a few chapters I was interested and genuinely enjoying myself. The characters in the novel were your stereotypical characters. The young woman is beautiful but damaged emotionally and the hero is attractive but damaged by PTSD. Both of them are living with survivor’s guilt and both are coping with their emotional trauma in similar ways.
Ultimately, the book felt a little jumpy to me. It didn’t seem to flow well in the beginning but by the end I was invested. I’m going to give this 3 ½ cups of coffee.
April 18, 2014
The first thing I said to myself when I finished this book was that, yes this is a love story, a contemporary romance to be exact. However, this book is more about family than it is about romance. It is the good, the bad, the ugly, the sad and how two families shape who we are as people and how we act towards others. Emma Anderson and Jake Knight come from very different families with very different backgrounds but what really struck me is how much those families mean to them.....even if they wouldn't admit it to themselves. Through a series of close encounters over years it is clear these two have chemistry, but can that chemistry hold strong when put to the test of pain, past and secrets.
Emma is the one that I saw as hiding in this situation. I understood why she would want too, believe me I do, however clearly the whole keeping things under wraps wasn't really working for her. I loved that she was dedicated to her career and that she loved what she did but it wasn't hiding from the reader that she had some serious pain bubbling under the surface and that was made very evident at the wedding where her parents were killed. Enter a seemingly genuine smart guy like Jake and she couldn't really resist.....for long. The spark between these two is palpable and to the reader it is very clear they belong together even though they themselves can't figure it out.....for years! They are the ying and the yang needed to complete each other, if only they would step out of their own way to get it.
Obviously the romance needed to be well written in order for a book like this to work, and it does here. My favorite parts though involved so much more than just the two characters interactions. At moments the story soared at fun filled adventure, other times at deep dark sadness and still other points where the mystery behind these two characters kept you guessing. That ability to throw my curve balls kept me interested throughout and that is a success if there ever was any in literature, because almost nothing surprises me anymore. Take two well developed characters and throw them into the middle of a story filled with elements that will intrigue and you have the recipe for a fantastic read!
Emma is the one that I saw as hiding in this situation. I understood why she would want too, believe me I do, however clearly the whole keeping things under wraps wasn't really working for her. I loved that she was dedicated to her career and that she loved what she did but it wasn't hiding from the reader that she had some serious pain bubbling under the surface and that was made very evident at the wedding where her parents were killed. Enter a seemingly genuine smart guy like Jake and she couldn't really resist.....for long. The spark between these two is palpable and to the reader it is very clear they belong together even though they themselves can't figure it out.....for years! They are the ying and the yang needed to complete each other, if only they would step out of their own way to get it.
Obviously the romance needed to be well written in order for a book like this to work, and it does here. My favorite parts though involved so much more than just the two characters interactions. At moments the story soared at fun filled adventure, other times at deep dark sadness and still other points where the mystery behind these two characters kept you guessing. That ability to throw my curve balls kept me interested throughout and that is a success if there ever was any in literature, because almost nothing surprises me anymore. Take two well developed characters and throw them into the middle of a story filled with elements that will intrigue and you have the recipe for a fantastic read!
July 16, 2014
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This is a story about two people , Emma and Jake, and how they must learn whether they can be strong enough to love and let go , even if it means losing control.
The beginning of the book is filed with many funny and quirky moments as Jake and Emma decide to allow Serendipity decide whether they will continue to see each other. As fate would have it , they would bump into each and from there sparked a "not relationship relationship" that ended when Emma broke it off.
After this part, which was kind of early into the story , I got lost. It wasn't that I didn't understand the different point of views the book was being told in , but instead I feel like many details about each character weren't fully explained until we neared the second half of the book.
As Emma continuously tries to distance herself from Jake because she can't let him get close, he continues to be there for her , which is aided once again by Serendipity, that grants them another o[opportunity to see each other as they are set to attend the wedding of Emma "best friend" and Jake' "cousin".
Overall , I didn't believe in the story which is why I think it was hard for me to get through this book. I wasn't able to understand Emma with her background and why she switch so quickly between being the very poised poker face girl to the vulnerable girl who had jut experienced a tragedy. For me , it just didn't work and as I result , I found myself constantly re-reading past chapters to try and make sense of which part of her past or his past was currently affecting their actions and decisions. As for the ending , the last 15 pages of so just seemed to quickly wrap up the story and after ALL that had happened in the book, I didn't see how the ending worked out the way it did
This is not to say that I didn't like the characters in the book. For the most part, I was very much drawn to the supporting characters like Jake's family and Emma's grandparents. Also the business side of the plot was also intriguing and showed the high level of work ethic that the characters had.
In conclusion, I would give this book a 2.5 to 3 stars
This is a story about two people , Emma and Jake, and how they must learn whether they can be strong enough to love and let go , even if it means losing control.
The beginning of the book is filed with many funny and quirky moments as Jake and Emma decide to allow Serendipity decide whether they will continue to see each other. As fate would have it , they would bump into each and from there sparked a "not relationship relationship" that ended when Emma broke it off.
After this part, which was kind of early into the story , I got lost. It wasn't that I didn't understand the different point of views the book was being told in , but instead I feel like many details about each character weren't fully explained until we neared the second half of the book.
As Emma continuously tries to distance herself from Jake because she can't let him get close, he continues to be there for her , which is aided once again by Serendipity, that grants them another o[opportunity to see each other as they are set to attend the wedding of Emma "best friend" and Jake' "cousin".
Overall , I didn't believe in the story which is why I think it was hard for me to get through this book. I wasn't able to understand Emma with her background and why she switch so quickly between being the very poised poker face girl to the vulnerable girl who had jut experienced a tragedy. For me , it just didn't work and as I result , I found myself constantly re-reading past chapters to try and make sense of which part of her past or his past was currently affecting their actions and decisions. As for the ending , the last 15 pages of so just seemed to quickly wrap up the story and after ALL that had happened in the book, I didn't see how the ending worked out the way it did
This is not to say that I didn't like the characters in the book. For the most part, I was very much drawn to the supporting characters like Jake's family and Emma's grandparents. Also the business side of the plot was also intriguing and showed the high level of work ethic that the characters had.
In conclusion, I would give this book a 2.5 to 3 stars
August 11, 2014
Getting By is a book that involves two characters that each have a painful past. Emma and Jake each have personal issues that they've been struggling with and that means that they both have a lot of emotional baggage and they're also carrying a lot of guilt. You really feel bad for both of the characters because you see the love that they have for each other, but the things that they're holding on to is what's holding them back.
I really liked this book. I'm a sucker for damaged characters and I don't know why. Emma and Jake had a two year romance that was suppose to be no strings attached, but suddenly Emma breaks it off and two don't see each other again until they both happen to be attending the same wedding. It took me awhile to warm up to Emma at first because of her personality. She's very closed off and doesn't like to let people in because of all the hurt that she's felt. And then there's Jake and he's very confused as to why Emma called off the relationship so suddenly with no warning. The both love each other and I definitely could understand both of their viewpoints. The things about their relationship to me is their lack of communication as a couple. They didn't share anything with each other about their pasts and that's the thing that kept them from committing, but slowly we found out what they were both holding on to and feeling so guilty and helpless about. It was really sad to see the two struggle so much and throughout the entire book I was hoping for the best.
I liked the romance in the book and thought it was very cute and sweet. Not a lot of people would understand Emma and her personality and I really felt like Jake was her perfect match. He understood her and could handle her. Neither of them were perfect, but they were awesome together. Sometimes I did feel the pacing slowed up a bit, but overall I thought the book was pretty good and I enjoyed it. I'd recommend this book to people who like stories with characters that deal with painful issues or have baggage.
I really liked this book. I'm a sucker for damaged characters and I don't know why. Emma and Jake had a two year romance that was suppose to be no strings attached, but suddenly Emma breaks it off and two don't see each other again until they both happen to be attending the same wedding. It took me awhile to warm up to Emma at first because of her personality. She's very closed off and doesn't like to let people in because of all the hurt that she's felt. And then there's Jake and he's very confused as to why Emma called off the relationship so suddenly with no warning. The both love each other and I definitely could understand both of their viewpoints. The things about their relationship to me is their lack of communication as a couple. They didn't share anything with each other about their pasts and that's the thing that kept them from committing, but slowly we found out what they were both holding on to and feeling so guilty and helpless about. It was really sad to see the two struggle so much and throughout the entire book I was hoping for the best.
I liked the romance in the book and thought it was very cute and sweet. Not a lot of people would understand Emma and her personality and I really felt like Jake was her perfect match. He understood her and could handle her. Neither of them were perfect, but they were awesome together. Sometimes I did feel the pacing slowed up a bit, but overall I thought the book was pretty good and I enjoyed it. I'd recommend this book to people who like stories with characters that deal with painful issues or have baggage.
August 1, 2014
In Claudia Y. Burgoa's Getting By (A Knight's Tale), recently broken up couple, Emma and Jake, find themselves in the same hotel because of a wedding they are both attending. Surprised to see each other, they desperately try to fight their feelings. They both know it won't work out. There's a reason they ended things. They both want different things in life, or do they? With Jake's meddling but caring family trying to help, they soon find themselves spending time together again as if nothing had changed. But they each have secrets in their past that make them both cautious and scared to get into anything serious. Will they be able to forget about each other and move on? Or will they give in and try to make it work this time?
Emma and Jake's relationship is complicated, to say the least. I was rooting for them throughout the whole book, but it was also frustrating when they tried to ignore their obvious feelings for each other. It definitely kept me reading though. They have both been through so much, and I was so invested in their lives that I was practically yelling at them to finally realize that they need each other. It definitely takes a great writer to keep readers engaged in the story and also get them to care about the characters. Claudia Y. Burgoa certainly did that. Emma and Jake were, of course, the center of the story, but what I also really enjoyed was Jake's family. His brothers and his parents got involved when they probably shouldn't have, but their love for Jake was so evident, which was heartwarming. I was disappointed when the book ended because I wanted more, but I was also excited since this is part of a series. I hope to read much more about Jake and his brothers. While it was slow in some parts of the book, Getting By is full of romance, family, moving on, and following your heart, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I can't wait to read more from this author.
Reviewed by ME for Readers' Favorite
Emma and Jake's relationship is complicated, to say the least. I was rooting for them throughout the whole book, but it was also frustrating when they tried to ignore their obvious feelings for each other. It definitely kept me reading though. They have both been through so much, and I was so invested in their lives that I was practically yelling at them to finally realize that they need each other. It definitely takes a great writer to keep readers engaged in the story and also get them to care about the characters. Claudia Y. Burgoa certainly did that. Emma and Jake were, of course, the center of the story, but what I also really enjoyed was Jake's family. His brothers and his parents got involved when they probably shouldn't have, but their love for Jake was so evident, which was heartwarming. I was disappointed when the book ended because I wanted more, but I was also excited since this is part of a series. I hope to read much more about Jake and his brothers. While it was slow in some parts of the book, Getting By is full of romance, family, moving on, and following your heart, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I can't wait to read more from this author.
Reviewed by ME for Readers' Favorite
June 15, 2014
3.5 stars
Emma is returning to her hometown after years away in New York...the hometown that she fled after the tragic death of her parents. She knew it was a bad idea to come back but she didn't know how bad until she sees him again...the one who she walked away from.
The second Jake lays eyes on Emma again he knows Serendipity is back at work and this time, he wants answers from Emma. But when she finally tells him her real reason for leaving, will he be able to give her what she needs??
I thought this book had a lot of potential but it just didn't work for me. There are a lot of characters and a lot going on. I saw another reviewer say at times it feels like there are inside jokes that the reader doesn't know about and it is totally true. I never really connected with Emma and Jake right from the start and even with the names at the beginning of the chapters, sometimes it was hard to tell who was speaking with the way it is written.
My thoughts:
Quick hook or slow starter? 3 (I had to force myself to keep reading)
Character development: 3
Level of Romance between characters: 3
Passion/Heat level: 2 (there are a couple of mentions of sex but no actual sex in this book)
Angst/Heartbreak: 4 (not short on angst. If you can connect with the characters, they do a good job of torturing each other)
Cliffhanger?: No, looks like there will be more books with the other Knight brothers but this one is wrapped up.
Overall, this one just wasn't for me. I like at least a little heat and more romance in my romance novels and if I am being 100% honest, I would have stopped reading about halfway through if I wasn't reading for review. It had its good moments, but the bad outweighed the good in the end for me.
I received a free copy if this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Emma is returning to her hometown after years away in New York...the hometown that she fled after the tragic death of her parents. She knew it was a bad idea to come back but she didn't know how bad until she sees him again...the one who she walked away from.
The second Jake lays eyes on Emma again he knows Serendipity is back at work and this time, he wants answers from Emma. But when she finally tells him her real reason for leaving, will he be able to give her what she needs??
I thought this book had a lot of potential but it just didn't work for me. There are a lot of characters and a lot going on. I saw another reviewer say at times it feels like there are inside jokes that the reader doesn't know about and it is totally true. I never really connected with Emma and Jake right from the start and even with the names at the beginning of the chapters, sometimes it was hard to tell who was speaking with the way it is written.
My thoughts:
Quick hook or slow starter? 3 (I had to force myself to keep reading)
Character development: 3
Level of Romance between characters: 3
Passion/Heat level: 2 (there are a couple of mentions of sex but no actual sex in this book)
Angst/Heartbreak: 4 (not short on angst. If you can connect with the characters, they do a good job of torturing each other)
Cliffhanger?: No, looks like there will be more books with the other Knight brothers but this one is wrapped up.
Overall, this one just wasn't for me. I like at least a little heat and more romance in my romance novels and if I am being 100% honest, I would have stopped reading about halfway through if I wasn't reading for review. It had its good moments, but the bad outweighed the good in the end for me.
I received a free copy if this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
May 19, 2014
Getting By is a new adult romance that follows two characters with complicated lives as they count on fate each time to bring them together. It offers them both a "no strings attached" relationship, but after two years of this they are both in too deep and they realise that they do care about each other. When the two find themselves together at a mutual wedding, both have to figure what they want.
I liked the idea for the book. Leaving one's encounters with another up to chance and fate. The main characters in this book, Emma and Jake, have both dealt with extreme situations in their lives and the details of their lives are given in little chunks throughout the book which kept me reading until the end. What I also liked was the fact that it didn't feel like a typical, generic new adult romance where one of the characters is emotionally damaged and falls for someone who can fix them. Well, I've encountered many of these types of books and Getting By felt refreshing.
The book is told from both Emma and Jake's POVs and therefore you get a good whole image of what they are each thinking.Emma is quite a closed person and finds it difficult to discuss matters involving herself and her past. And then there's Jake, who was in the army and is all you could ever want in a gentleman. The two coming together made the story effortlessly funny and romantic.
I felt that the book moved at a slow pace, and this is fine, but I would have liked something to speed it up at times in order to make it a bit more captivating. Other than that, I have no complaints and I really enjoyed the characters and writing style! This is the first of a series and I'm very intrigued to find out what more there is to offer.
I liked the idea for the book. Leaving one's encounters with another up to chance and fate. The main characters in this book, Emma and Jake, have both dealt with extreme situations in their lives and the details of their lives are given in little chunks throughout the book which kept me reading until the end. What I also liked was the fact that it didn't feel like a typical, generic new adult romance where one of the characters is emotionally damaged and falls for someone who can fix them. Well, I've encountered many of these types of books and Getting By felt refreshing.
The book is told from both Emma and Jake's POVs and therefore you get a good whole image of what they are each thinking.Emma is quite a closed person and finds it difficult to discuss matters involving herself and her past. And then there's Jake, who was in the army and is all you could ever want in a gentleman. The two coming together made the story effortlessly funny and romantic.
I felt that the book moved at a slow pace, and this is fine, but I would have liked something to speed it up at times in order to make it a bit more captivating. Other than that, I have no complaints and I really enjoyed the characters and writing style! This is the first of a series and I'm very intrigued to find out what more there is to offer.
September 22, 2014
I've always loved second chance stories. I'm not quite sure why. I think it has to do with rediscovering the love a couple has. It gives me hope that love can be reclaimed if it ever feels like it's gone. I was really hoping Jake and Emma would be able to find their way back to each other.
I was a little confused when I read the prologue. I wasn't sure if it was a flashback or something that had been taken out of the book. It may have just been he fact I was reading something that hadn't been formatted properly for my e-reader. All of that fell away once I started reading the first chapter.
While I liked Jake and Emma, I wasn't sure why they'd parted ways in the first place. When that part of their story was shared, I was as surprised as Jake. I really did think Emma was callous then and I didn't like her very much at that moment. However when I saw how she was when he was around at the wedding and got to know her, I liked her even if I still didn't fully understand her reasons. I didn't really understand what Gaby's motivation was to invite Emma to her wedding and be part of it. However I did know Emma was a good friend to go back for it even though it caused her great distress.
The story is engrossing and there is a lot going on with the wedding everyone is attending as well as the reveals of Emma's life. I felt so bad for her and happy she'd found her way out of that. There were some moments of laughter and lots of moments that made me go, "Aww." My eyes even got a little watery as I read about the heartbreak they both experienced. I really enjoyed this book and am looking forward to the rest of the Knight brothers books.
I was a little confused when I read the prologue. I wasn't sure if it was a flashback or something that had been taken out of the book. It may have just been he fact I was reading something that hadn't been formatted properly for my e-reader. All of that fell away once I started reading the first chapter.
While I liked Jake and Emma, I wasn't sure why they'd parted ways in the first place. When that part of their story was shared, I was as surprised as Jake. I really did think Emma was callous then and I didn't like her very much at that moment. However when I saw how she was when he was around at the wedding and got to know her, I liked her even if I still didn't fully understand her reasons. I didn't really understand what Gaby's motivation was to invite Emma to her wedding and be part of it. However I did know Emma was a good friend to go back for it even though it caused her great distress.
The story is engrossing and there is a lot going on with the wedding everyone is attending as well as the reveals of Emma's life. I felt so bad for her and happy she'd found her way out of that. There were some moments of laughter and lots of moments that made me go, "Aww." My eyes even got a little watery as I read about the heartbreak they both experienced. I really enjoyed this book and am looking forward to the rest of the Knight brothers books.
January 10, 2015
**I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review**
What a fab love story between two equally broken people- books like this are the reason I love NA. It was superbly written with a perfect mix of love and pain and at points it brought me to tears, another reason I read while the rest of the house is asleep- I'm a blubberer.
The main characters were Jake and Emma two fantastic characters both as individuals and as a couple with a great back ground story which makes you desperate for them to find love. Of course as always in these books either one or both of them are pulling away from what you think is the inevitable however props to the author in this book who keeps us guessing until the very last moment. I liked both characters for their unique personality traits and also the unit they become when together.
The secondary characters include the brothers of Jake who I'm hoping we will hear more about in other books in this series. As well as Jake's mother and father who I loved for adopting Emma into the family and Emma's grandparents who at the minute I'm really not sure on.
The pacing was great and I loved that the author left it till the very very last minute before revealing the fate of the couple as it created tension and made my emotions even more heightened than usual.
The storyline was a real classic style with a new twist which I loved as it had an already great tried and tested structure however by adding in the twists and turns made it even easier to fall in love with.
3.5 stars. An author and series of books to look out for in the future.
What a fab love story between two equally broken people- books like this are the reason I love NA. It was superbly written with a perfect mix of love and pain and at points it brought me to tears, another reason I read while the rest of the house is asleep- I'm a blubberer.
The main characters were Jake and Emma two fantastic characters both as individuals and as a couple with a great back ground story which makes you desperate for them to find love. Of course as always in these books either one or both of them are pulling away from what you think is the inevitable however props to the author in this book who keeps us guessing until the very last moment. I liked both characters for their unique personality traits and also the unit they become when together.
The secondary characters include the brothers of Jake who I'm hoping we will hear more about in other books in this series. As well as Jake's mother and father who I loved for adopting Emma into the family and Emma's grandparents who at the minute I'm really not sure on.
The pacing was great and I loved that the author left it till the very very last minute before revealing the fate of the couple as it created tension and made my emotions even more heightened than usual.
The storyline was a real classic style with a new twist which I loved as it had an already great tried and tested structure however by adding in the twists and turns made it even easier to fall in love with.
3.5 stars. An author and series of books to look out for in the future.
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