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Hystoria #3
Counterpoint
When life sucks and you think it can’t get worse… trust me, it can.
After my relationship ended badly, I’m leaving the city and moving back home. I look forward to packing everything into my car and enjoy the nice, quiet, road trip - until my brother asks me to take his best friend along and doesn’t accept a ‘no’. The same best friend that rejected me brutally when we were teens.
But I’m an adult and I can act like one - even though Simon’s grumpy demeanor is pushing all my wrong buttons. Soon disdain turns into sparks and when we need to share a bed, know I’m in trouble.
Then again, if life gives you lemons… maybe it’s time to enjoy a good lemon cookie.
Counterpoint is a steamy rockstar/ enemies to lover’s romance. It's book three in the Hystoria series but can be read as a standalone.
After my relationship ended badly, I’m leaving the city and moving back home. I look forward to packing everything into my car and enjoy the nice, quiet, road trip - until my brother asks me to take his best friend along and doesn’t accept a ‘no’. The same best friend that rejected me brutally when we were teens.
But I’m an adult and I can act like one - even though Simon’s grumpy demeanor is pushing all my wrong buttons. Soon disdain turns into sparks and when we need to share a bed, know I’m in trouble.
Then again, if life gives you lemons… maybe it’s time to enjoy a good lemon cookie.
Counterpoint is a steamy rockstar/ enemies to lover’s romance. It's book three in the Hystoria series but can be read as a standalone.
308 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 24, 2023
227 people are currently reading
996 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
November 28, 2024
Poor grovel and unsatisfying protagonist getting his just rewards. He’s beat up off screen and the horrid job pays her for her lawsuit but it’s over the phone and threw a mediator
The MMC says some genuinely terribly horrible things and yes, his apology does feel like it was as meaningful as he could give I guess but it’s still pretty crappy
I don’t know it just wasn’t my cup of tea
The MMC says some genuinely terribly horrible things and yes, his apology does feel like it was as meaningful as he could give I guess but it’s still pretty crappy
I don’t know it just wasn’t my cup of tea
November 15, 2023
Such an amazing book! Loved Harper and Simon!
November 22, 2023
✧ Arc Review ✧
⬥︎ You know those people who judge a book by its cover? That's me xD, and I admit that people on the cover is a big no-no for me, but this book, despite its cover, managed to win my heart and I devoured it in a day!! It was such a light and fun read that I didn't feel like putting the book down!
⬥︎ This is the third book in an interconnected series, but it can be read as a standalone, and here the author introduces us to Harper and Simon.
⬥︎ After going through a traumatic time, Harper decides to return to her hometown to reorganise her life. As a favour to her brother, who doesn't want her to go alone, he asks her to bring along his friend Simon.
⬥︎ Harper is in the top 3 of my favourite female characters, I liked everything about her! I really can't pinpoint a flaw. Her character is so well-written that even if you looked for flaws with a magnifying glass, it would be hard to find them. She's determined, she fights for what she wants and doesn't accept being talked down to. And I love that she knows her own worth.
⬥︎ I loved the way this book was written, because although Harper had a crush on Simon when she was younger, I don't feel it revolves around that. It was about two people reconnecting, bonding and rebuilding their friendship. And at the beginning it was a bit difficult for Harper to get through to Simon, because he was always in a bad mood, but then when all the tension broke it was nice to see them learn more about each other.
⬥︎ Another thing I also liked was the fact that when they 'broke up' (and I don't consider it a third act break up because Simon was horrible to Harper, and she set the record straight) when they got back together it wasn't like they were madly in love, but two people trying to solve their own personal problems and at the same time, trying to make their relationship work.
⬥︎ The only thing I have to complain about is that we don't have dual pov. I feel we should have had Simon's perspective so we could understand his character better. And I felt that bits of the story were missing, even though the author explained what happened.
⬥︎ If you like books with road trips and one bed, this book is definitely for you!
⬥︎ Thanks to Hailey for the e-arc in exchange for an honest opinion. ♡
⬥︎ You know those people who judge a book by its cover? That's me xD, and I admit that people on the cover is a big no-no for me, but this book, despite its cover, managed to win my heart and I devoured it in a day!! It was such a light and fun read that I didn't feel like putting the book down!
⬥︎ This is the third book in an interconnected series, but it can be read as a standalone, and here the author introduces us to Harper and Simon.
⬥︎ After going through a traumatic time, Harper decides to return to her hometown to reorganise her life. As a favour to her brother, who doesn't want her to go alone, he asks her to bring along his friend Simon.
⬥︎ Harper is in the top 3 of my favourite female characters, I liked everything about her! I really can't pinpoint a flaw. Her character is so well-written that even if you looked for flaws with a magnifying glass, it would be hard to find them. She's determined, she fights for what she wants and doesn't accept being talked down to. And I love that she knows her own worth.
⬥︎ I loved the way this book was written, because although Harper had a crush on Simon when she was younger, I don't feel it revolves around that. It was about two people reconnecting, bonding and rebuilding their friendship. And at the beginning it was a bit difficult for Harper to get through to Simon, because he was always in a bad mood, but then when all the tension broke it was nice to see them learn more about each other.
⬥︎ Another thing I also liked was the fact that when they 'broke up' (and I don't consider it a third act break up because Simon was horrible to Harper, and she set the record straight) when they got back together it wasn't like they were madly in love, but two people trying to solve their own personal problems and at the same time, trying to make their relationship work.
⬥︎ The only thing I have to complain about is that we don't have dual pov. I feel we should have had Simon's perspective so we could understand his character better. And I felt that bits of the story were missing, even though the author explained what happened.
⬥︎ If you like books with road trips and one bed, this book is definitely for you!
⬥︎ Thanks to Hailey for the e-arc in exchange for an honest opinion. ♡
November 20, 2023
Counterpoint
By Hailey Frost
Hystoria book 3
4⭐️ 3🌶️
Rockstar Romance
Best Friend’s sister
Band mates sister
Forced proximity
One bed
Enemies to lovers
Small town
I am going to start out this review by warning you to check your trigger warnings. There is DV depicted in this book at the hands of the FMC’s ex. That being said, the book was so good. It got me in the feels, it made me laugh, and it made me blush. Harper is the sassy little sister of the lead singer in Simon’s band. Simon is the Bassist of said band. Harper grew up having a crush on Simon who is also her Brother’s lifelong bff. Due to some hurtful words, Simon and Harper grow apart and she holds a very sturdy grudge against Simon. That is, until her brother begs her to let Simon drive with her in her car to head back home to their small town for Thanksgiving. It is a 7 day trip and oh so many things happen on this trip. I will be going back to read the first two books! I really loved these characters.
I received this book as an ARC
By Hailey Frost
Hystoria book 3
4⭐️ 3🌶️
Rockstar Romance
Best Friend’s sister
Band mates sister
Forced proximity
One bed
Enemies to lovers
Small town
I am going to start out this review by warning you to check your trigger warnings. There is DV depicted in this book at the hands of the FMC’s ex. That being said, the book was so good. It got me in the feels, it made me laugh, and it made me blush. Harper is the sassy little sister of the lead singer in Simon’s band. Simon is the Bassist of said band. Harper grew up having a crush on Simon who is also her Brother’s lifelong bff. Due to some hurtful words, Simon and Harper grow apart and she holds a very sturdy grudge against Simon. That is, until her brother begs her to let Simon drive with her in her car to head back home to their small town for Thanksgiving. It is a 7 day trip and oh so many things happen on this trip. I will be going back to read the first two books! I really loved these characters.
I received this book as an ARC
November 17, 2023
ARC REVIEW 🩵
Counterpoint by @haileyfrostauthor
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Diving into Simon & Harpers story was a whirlwind. The first chapter brings you drama & trauma! Harper is a strong FMC who experienced a traumatic situation which brought her back to her hometown Windmeadow, but her simple drive became much more when her brother convinced Harper to let his best friend travel back with her. Simon is a closed off MMC and does his best to avoid all interactions with people to avoid being noticed (he is famous after all). Harper & Simon finally come to a head with hot & steamy se❌. The tension could be cut with a knife! Hailey wrote this book with such detail to all explicit & traumatic scenes, forever one of my favourite pallet cleanser books !
Counterpoint by @haileyfrostauthor
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Diving into Simon & Harpers story was a whirlwind. The first chapter brings you drama & trauma! Harper is a strong FMC who experienced a traumatic situation which brought her back to her hometown Windmeadow, but her simple drive became much more when her brother convinced Harper to let his best friend travel back with her. Simon is a closed off MMC and does his best to avoid all interactions with people to avoid being noticed (he is famous after all). Harper & Simon finally come to a head with hot & steamy se❌. The tension could be cut with a knife! Hailey wrote this book with such detail to all explicit & traumatic scenes, forever one of my favourite pallet cleanser books !
December 25, 2024
Such a powerful start to a book with such a good messaging for women and also so good support for someone who have been through the same🫶🏻 I really loved the story with the forced proximity with the 10 day drive home for thanksgiving☺️ also really loved the chemistry and the communication between the main characters⭐️4
August 9, 2024
I loved the FMC, she was strong and did not disappoint in her way of dealing things. The fact that she left Simon on the road? EPIC. And the way she handled her parents and the situation with her ex, same badass.
I really appreciated the fact that the harassment topic was closed and she got the right answer from the company in the end. Justice was served.
But I never got closure on why Simon booked two different rooms after they had steamy nights.
I would have liked a conversation on that. Also the grovelling was not enough and she had no reason to apologize to him for calling him names. In the end he was pathetic like she said.
I think reading it from only her POV was underwhelming. I would have like at least a couple chapters of his POV towards the end to explain how he felt remorseful and to showcase his character development.
And at least he didn't seem too much of a manwhore.
I really appreciated the fact that the harassment topic was closed and she got the right answer from the company in the end. Justice was served.
But I never got closure on why Simon booked two different rooms after they had steamy nights.
I would have liked a conversation on that. Also the grovelling was not enough and she had no reason to apologize to him for calling him names. In the end he was pathetic like she said.
I think reading it from only her POV was underwhelming. I would have like at least a couple chapters of his POV towards the end to explain how he felt remorseful and to showcase his character development.
And at least he didn't seem too much of a manwhore.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 1, 2025
read
Quick read
A lot of unnecessary fillers - like with her friends at the end /maybe to setup for a nxt book.
The main character will ask a question then be in her head about something else until we get back to the matter of point.
The love interests have absolute no connection except for lust .
The mmc barely speaks & is rude towards the fmc and the excuse is because he’s running from own problems and doesn’t know how to deal.
This story really didn’t have a strong foundation
Things get sorted by money & therapist
But characters have no growth.
Quick read
A lot of unnecessary fillers - like with her friends at the end /maybe to setup for a nxt book.
The main character will ask a question then be in her head about something else until we get back to the matter of point.
The love interests have absolute no connection except for lust .
The mmc barely speaks & is rude towards the fmc and the excuse is because he’s running from own problems and doesn’t know how to deal.
This story really didn’t have a strong foundation
Things get sorted by money & therapist
But characters have no growth.
May 20, 2025
The spice in this book felt like it came out of literally nowhere. It felt like there was a lot of arguing and annoyance and then suddenly... sex.
If the dynamic between Harper and Simon had been explored a little bit more to give more of a build up to the sex scenes, this book would have flowed more smoothly, I think.
I loved the story, but it all felt kind of choppy. Kind of like the scenes were all written at different times and just tied together with random sentences and chapter breaks.
If the dynamic between Harper and Simon had been explored a little bit more to give more of a build up to the sex scenes, this book would have flowed more smoothly, I think.
I loved the story, but it all felt kind of choppy. Kind of like the scenes were all written at different times and just tied together with random sentences and chapter breaks.
March 27, 2025
2.75 stars.
I thought the authors take on domestic abuse was pretty good.
However, the actual love story sucked. And I would never have forgiven the MMC Simon. And then the story just ended. So yeah.
I thought the authors take on domestic abuse was pretty good.
However, the actual love story sucked. And I would never have forgiven the MMC Simon. And then the story just ended. So yeah.
December 2, 2023
❗️SPOILERS❗️
____________________________
💜 "Somehow, that fuckface weaseled his way into my heart, and I can't get him out, no matter what I try."
____________________________
I was given an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion and review. Counterpoint is book number 3 in the Hystoria series. I didn't read the first 2 books, so this can be read as a standalone. I'll be going back to read about Cole and Jake's stories. And I can't wait for Pax next. This story is Harper and Jasper's story, which is written in single POV. I would have loved to see dual for this, because I always love to see the guys POV but I really did love this book. There is a HEA but it's based on their relationship growing, not being rushed into I love you's, proposals or pregnancy.
✔️Rockstar
✔️Brother's best friend
✔️Grumpy/Sunshine
✔️Forced proximity
TRIGGER WARNING. Harper is a 27 year old, who just recently got out of a domestic violence relationship. The first few chapters talk about her abuse and some of the aftermath of getting away from your abuser. She decides that moving home to the small town she grew up in is the best option for her, and she's going to take a road trip to get there.
Simon is a 29 year old bassist in the band Hytoria with Harpers brother Jake. The band is currently on a hiatus and he plans on going home to visit with his family during Thanksgiving but there are no flights available. Jake suggests that he travel home with Harper, and it takes some convincing for Harper to allow him to go with her.
____________________________
💜 "If we do this, I want to do this properly. Dating. Getting to know you. Building trust. There're tons of issues both of us need to work throgh if we want to give 'us' a real chance." He nodes in agreement. "Once we're there, you can hate fuck me as much as you want to."
____________________________
THINGS I THOUGHT WHILE READING:⬇️
▪️ I have never heard of frozen paprika... Am I living under a rock? Is that a thing?
▪️ I was afraid she wasn't going to tell her brother what happened, and I'm glad the Grandma intervened in her sneaky way.
▪️ I cannot believe her job! This made me so angry... everyone is always okay with victim blaming because the abuses seems like a "decent human." but really how much did you investigate in less than 24 hours!
▪️ When Simon called her undatable as a kid, was it because he had a crush on her and didn't want any of his friends to date her.
▪️ I absolutely LOVEEEEE the car ride with the steamy audio book. My husband always tells me to stop listening to porn, so I couldn't help but laugh during this. And this is exactly where I would have loved to have Si's POV 'cause we know he got hard.
▪️ Damnnnn. I've been waiting for them to hate fck! That elevator in the hotel was the start of something steamy.
▪️ Why did he get them separate hotel rooms that last night? And why did he get distant with her the next day? Initially I was wondering if it was because he thought he wanted more from her, and he claimed she was afraid of commitment.
▪️ You go girl! Firstly, I laughed and cried during when she kicked him out of the car. His argument and jumping to conclusions about her situation were a dick move... and I felt for her. But I was living for the fact that she left him stranded at a gas station. LOL.
▪️ And again, you go girl for telling your parents off.
▪️ I'm glad Si and her brother Jake ended up beating up her ex Tom, the trauma from the situation and her nightmares... he deserved it. Also loved that Jake didn't hate the fact that his best friend and sister hooked up.
▪️ I love when Si comes to apologize and they start to actually "date." He's really sweet with the ice skating, and walking her to her door. Plus it's refreshing that they are working on themselves and getting to know one another again. In so many books it goes right to forgiveness, to I love you, to a proposal or pregnancy.
▪️ Yesss! These two and their car sexy time... She gives him a BJ and his payback is a vibrator that he can control and makes her orgasm at the drive-thru... I'm here for the creativity. But - remember safe driving! 🔥
▪️ "I'm gonna fuck you so deliciously. You'll forget your own fucking name while you'll scream mine until your voice becomes hoarse." That mouth! 🔥🤤
▪️ Loved the epilogue being in Si's POV! These are from that and I just loveeee him!⬇️
____________________________
💜"She's my muse. With her, it's like trouble doesn't exist. A soon as my eyes are on her, I'm content and the future doesn't seem as scary anymore."
____________________________
💜"I can't help myself and I gently press my lips against the crown of her head again. I don't know if she realises it, but I would do just about anything for her. Anything."
____________________________
____________________________
💜 "Somehow, that fuckface weaseled his way into my heart, and I can't get him out, no matter what I try."
____________________________
I was given an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion and review. Counterpoint is book number 3 in the Hystoria series. I didn't read the first 2 books, so this can be read as a standalone. I'll be going back to read about Cole and Jake's stories. And I can't wait for Pax next. This story is Harper and Jasper's story, which is written in single POV. I would have loved to see dual for this, because I always love to see the guys POV but I really did love this book. There is a HEA but it's based on their relationship growing, not being rushed into I love you's, proposals or pregnancy.
✔️Rockstar
✔️Brother's best friend
✔️Grumpy/Sunshine
✔️Forced proximity
TRIGGER WARNING. Harper is a 27 year old, who just recently got out of a domestic violence relationship. The first few chapters talk about her abuse and some of the aftermath of getting away from your abuser. She decides that moving home to the small town she grew up in is the best option for her, and she's going to take a road trip to get there.
Simon is a 29 year old bassist in the band Hytoria with Harpers brother Jake. The band is currently on a hiatus and he plans on going home to visit with his family during Thanksgiving but there are no flights available. Jake suggests that he travel home with Harper, and it takes some convincing for Harper to allow him to go with her.
____________________________
💜 "If we do this, I want to do this properly. Dating. Getting to know you. Building trust. There're tons of issues both of us need to work throgh if we want to give 'us' a real chance." He nodes in agreement. "Once we're there, you can hate fuck me as much as you want to."
____________________________
THINGS I THOUGHT WHILE READING:⬇️
▪️ I have never heard of frozen paprika... Am I living under a rock? Is that a thing?
▪️ I was afraid she wasn't going to tell her brother what happened, and I'm glad the Grandma intervened in her sneaky way.
▪️ I cannot believe her job! This made me so angry... everyone is always okay with victim blaming because the abuses seems like a "decent human." but really how much did you investigate in less than 24 hours!
▪️ When Simon called her undatable as a kid, was it because he had a crush on her and didn't want any of his friends to date her.
▪️ I absolutely LOVEEEEE the car ride with the steamy audio book. My husband always tells me to stop listening to porn, so I couldn't help but laugh during this. And this is exactly where I would have loved to have Si's POV 'cause we know he got hard.
▪️ Damnnnn. I've been waiting for them to hate fck! That elevator in the hotel was the start of something steamy.
▪️ Why did he get them separate hotel rooms that last night? And why did he get distant with her the next day? Initially I was wondering if it was because he thought he wanted more from her, and he claimed she was afraid of commitment.
▪️ You go girl! Firstly, I laughed and cried during when she kicked him out of the car. His argument and jumping to conclusions about her situation were a dick move... and I felt for her. But I was living for the fact that she left him stranded at a gas station. LOL.
▪️ And again, you go girl for telling your parents off.
▪️ I'm glad Si and her brother Jake ended up beating up her ex Tom, the trauma from the situation and her nightmares... he deserved it. Also loved that Jake didn't hate the fact that his best friend and sister hooked up.
▪️ I love when Si comes to apologize and they start to actually "date." He's really sweet with the ice skating, and walking her to her door. Plus it's refreshing that they are working on themselves and getting to know one another again. In so many books it goes right to forgiveness, to I love you, to a proposal or pregnancy.
▪️ Yesss! These two and their car sexy time... She gives him a BJ and his payback is a vibrator that he can control and makes her orgasm at the drive-thru... I'm here for the creativity. But - remember safe driving! 🔥
▪️ "I'm gonna fuck you so deliciously. You'll forget your own fucking name while you'll scream mine until your voice becomes hoarse." That mouth! 🔥🤤
▪️ Loved the epilogue being in Si's POV! These are from that and I just loveeee him!⬇️
____________________________
💜"She's my muse. With her, it's like trouble doesn't exist. A soon as my eyes are on her, I'm content and the future doesn't seem as scary anymore."
____________________________
💜"I can't help myself and I gently press my lips against the crown of her head again. I don't know if she realises it, but I would do just about anything for her. Anything."
____________________________
December 6, 2023
✨ ARC Review ✨
Before reading this book please check TW as this book involves DV.
After reading the blurb i NEEDED to read this book, it covered a few of my favourite troupes, Road trip - CHECK, One bed - CHECK, Rekindling Friendship / romance - CHECK, Forced Proximity - DOUBLE CHECK!
This story is about Harper and Simon, we are quickly introduced to Harper and her traumatic ordeal is shown to us readers by a phonecall conversation between herself and her nan that lives in another state. I personally loved this idea as Hailey gave enough description and quickly created the scene and the type of relationship Harper had with her now ex Tom. Usually these type of scenes are written first hand but i really liked this version of writing. Harper is a strong , sassy and knows what she wants type of woman and i loved that Hailey gave us a FMC that knows her worth and takes no SH*T..
We meet Simon, he's a past friend then enemy and now nothing kind of guy. He did come across as rude and ignorant at first but the more i got to know him, i understood why. Personally i think it would have been better to have had either a dual POV or at least one chapter with his POV during the roadtrip so us readers could have understood him better and could have been part of his internal battle and could feel his emotions during their time together. I think by not having his POV it was a bit of a miss on connecting with him, at first anyway. BUT bonus points, we do get his POV in a bonus epilogue which was perfect!
Hailey really had me feeling all sorts of emotions in this book, us readers got front row seats on a roller-coaster ride. The whole story flowed together nicely. I enjoyed their banter, bickering and sassy comments they shared, which led to intense chemistry and a whole lot of spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️!! Also, that audiobook scene was ✨SPICY✨
This book is part of a series but can be read as a standalone. Overall, this was a really good story, i was hooked, i couldn't put it down! The best road trip books i have read to date. I can't wait to read Paxton's story, no doubt we'll see Harper and Simon soon!
"Oh, fuck you, si!" " Fuck me yourself, you coward!" is by far my favourite line and I'm so happy that was added again.. That definitely made me smile!
**************** POSSIBLE SPOILER ALERT ***********
I loved the fact this story was made realistic. In most romantic books involving violence it usually ends with the main character getting their HEA / HFN and it's all sunshine because they get the guy, all sorts of trauma they've endured has miraculously dissappears, BUT this author doesn't rush all that. Nothing happens overnight, the process of pressing charges and Harper pushing for her demands would take months, i loved this! It's what usually happens in most cases. I'm happy that Harper and Si knew what they both wanted and went for it but still knew they had to take time to work on themselves and their struggles with therapy
Before reading this book please check TW as this book involves DV.
After reading the blurb i NEEDED to read this book, it covered a few of my favourite troupes, Road trip - CHECK, One bed - CHECK, Rekindling Friendship / romance - CHECK, Forced Proximity - DOUBLE CHECK!
This story is about Harper and Simon, we are quickly introduced to Harper and her traumatic ordeal is shown to us readers by a phonecall conversation between herself and her nan that lives in another state. I personally loved this idea as Hailey gave enough description and quickly created the scene and the type of relationship Harper had with her now ex Tom. Usually these type of scenes are written first hand but i really liked this version of writing. Harper is a strong , sassy and knows what she wants type of woman and i loved that Hailey gave us a FMC that knows her worth and takes no SH*T..
We meet Simon, he's a past friend then enemy and now nothing kind of guy. He did come across as rude and ignorant at first but the more i got to know him, i understood why. Personally i think it would have been better to have had either a dual POV or at least one chapter with his POV during the roadtrip so us readers could have understood him better and could have been part of his internal battle and could feel his emotions during their time together. I think by not having his POV it was a bit of a miss on connecting with him, at first anyway. BUT bonus points, we do get his POV in a bonus epilogue which was perfect!
Hailey really had me feeling all sorts of emotions in this book, us readers got front row seats on a roller-coaster ride. The whole story flowed together nicely. I enjoyed their banter, bickering and sassy comments they shared, which led to intense chemistry and a whole lot of spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️!! Also, that audiobook scene was ✨SPICY✨
This book is part of a series but can be read as a standalone. Overall, this was a really good story, i was hooked, i couldn't put it down! The best road trip books i have read to date. I can't wait to read Paxton's story, no doubt we'll see Harper and Simon soon!
"Oh, fuck you, si!" " Fuck me yourself, you coward!" is by far my favourite line and I'm so happy that was added again.. That definitely made me smile!
**************** POSSIBLE SPOILER ALERT ***********
I loved the fact this story was made realistic. In most romantic books involving violence it usually ends with the main character getting their HEA / HFN and it's all sunshine because they get the guy, all sorts of trauma they've endured has miraculously dissappears, BUT this author doesn't rush all that. Nothing happens overnight, the process of pressing charges and Harper pushing for her demands would take months, i loved this! It's what usually happens in most cases. I'm happy that Harper and Si knew what they both wanted and went for it but still knew they had to take time to work on themselves and their struggles with therapy
December 2, 2023
It's ironic that the majority of Counterpoint takes place while on a road trip because the book itself was a journey as Harper makes the move to head back home and rebuild her life.
When Harper's life blows up in her face, her boyfriend physically attacks her, and as he happens to be her boss too, that means she's also out of a job. With no boyfriend, no job, and soon-to-be no home due to no income, she decides to move back home to where her family is. Only her brother Jake asks if she will drive his bandmate Simon back to town too for Thanksgiving, as he can't get a flight.
We've met Simon in the two earlier books of this series, and he's always come across as short-tempered, irritable, and, if I'm honest, a bit of an ass. That characterisation follows him through this book, and to be honest, he wasn't the most likeable character for a long time. However, we do see a lot of character growth in this book as he softens up and opens up to Harper, and she sees a different side, one that draws her in and allows her to fall for him a little, only for him to mess things up when he lashes out at her and undoes all the good work he had put in.
Despite Simon's brashness, Harper doesn't allow him to get away with it, and I loved her for that. After everything she had just been through, it would be easy to assume she was weak and meek, but that girl is strong and is sure to put Simon in his place and tell him a few home truths at the same time. I honestly cheered a bit when she did, and it is one of my favourite parts of the book as it showed that no matter what he did, her ex hadn't destroyed the kickass woman that she is.
Simon and Harper had grown up together, and he was initially one of her teenage crushes before he put his foot in it back then too. Although I don't think the crush impacted her feelings for him, more so was the fact that she remembered he could be a good person before he hurt her, only for him to repeat that several years later, destroying her trust in his ability to be the person she cared for.
Hailey does such a good job of creating characters, and I was fully invested in their journey. Harper seemed to be the only one who could see through the facade Simon was putting out there, even if he then went on to self-sabotage. They are believable characters who you can't help but support and who you want to get a happy ending, which is just a testament to Hailey's writing that she could have me going from disliking the main lead to championing his redemption. I can't wait to see her work her magic on Pax's story next.
When Harper's life blows up in her face, her boyfriend physically attacks her, and as he happens to be her boss too, that means she's also out of a job. With no boyfriend, no job, and soon-to-be no home due to no income, she decides to move back home to where her family is. Only her brother Jake asks if she will drive his bandmate Simon back to town too for Thanksgiving, as he can't get a flight.
We've met Simon in the two earlier books of this series, and he's always come across as short-tempered, irritable, and, if I'm honest, a bit of an ass. That characterisation follows him through this book, and to be honest, he wasn't the most likeable character for a long time. However, we do see a lot of character growth in this book as he softens up and opens up to Harper, and she sees a different side, one that draws her in and allows her to fall for him a little, only for him to mess things up when he lashes out at her and undoes all the good work he had put in.
Despite Simon's brashness, Harper doesn't allow him to get away with it, and I loved her for that. After everything she had just been through, it would be easy to assume she was weak and meek, but that girl is strong and is sure to put Simon in his place and tell him a few home truths at the same time. I honestly cheered a bit when she did, and it is one of my favourite parts of the book as it showed that no matter what he did, her ex hadn't destroyed the kickass woman that she is.
Simon and Harper had grown up together, and he was initially one of her teenage crushes before he put his foot in it back then too. Although I don't think the crush impacted her feelings for him, more so was the fact that she remembered he could be a good person before he hurt her, only for him to repeat that several years later, destroying her trust in his ability to be the person she cared for.
Hailey does such a good job of creating characters, and I was fully invested in their journey. Harper seemed to be the only one who could see through the facade Simon was putting out there, even if he then went on to self-sabotage. They are believable characters who you can't help but support and who you want to get a happy ending, which is just a testament to Hailey's writing that she could have me going from disliking the main lead to championing his redemption. I can't wait to see her work her magic on Pax's story next.
December 14, 2023
Counterpoint
Hailey Frost
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/🌶🌶🌶
This was NOT what I was expecting from the coverart, but man, am I glad I gave it a chance. It was a refreshing contemporary romance. Harper has has just gone through something unimaginable and decided to move back home to her childhood home with her grandmother. (Side note: I was raised by my grandmother so I love that aspect of the book!)
Harper didn't anticipate her loving, protective, rockstar brother to rope her into playing chauffer to his long-time best friend & bandmate, Simon, who also happens to be her teenage crush who broke her sixteen year old heart.
Si and Harp's road trip was full of spectacularly realistic banter that had me laughing out loud. I love a good forced proximity and one bed trope 🥰
Their relationship quickly went from no words, to playful banter, to no words needed, to we definitely should of had a more meaningful conversation. The spice, the sweet after care, and their near silent care for one of another was lovely but soon turned into a miscommunication breakdown. As TSwift says, this is why we can't have nice things.
I loved the way Harper handled herself in this story. I also loved how Simon apologized. This story was top tier contemporary romance with just enough spice. I'll be honest, since this is a interconnected series book 3 (meaning they can be read as standalones), I haven't read her other works but after reading Countpoint I plan to remedy that soon! I would definitely recommend for a heartfelt, nostalgic, good time.
*Thanks Hailey for a copy for an honest ARC review!*
Hailey Frost
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/🌶🌶🌶
This was NOT what I was expecting from the coverart, but man, am I glad I gave it a chance. It was a refreshing contemporary romance. Harper has has just gone through something unimaginable and decided to move back home to her childhood home with her grandmother. (Side note: I was raised by my grandmother so I love that aspect of the book!)
Harper didn't anticipate her loving, protective, rockstar brother to rope her into playing chauffer to his long-time best friend & bandmate, Simon, who also happens to be her teenage crush who broke her sixteen year old heart.
Si and Harp's road trip was full of spectacularly realistic banter that had me laughing out loud. I love a good forced proximity and one bed trope 🥰
Their relationship quickly went from no words, to playful banter, to no words needed, to we definitely should of had a more meaningful conversation. The spice, the sweet after care, and their near silent care for one of another was lovely but soon turned into a miscommunication breakdown. As TSwift says, this is why we can't have nice things.
I loved the way Harper handled herself in this story. I also loved how Simon apologized. This story was top tier contemporary romance with just enough spice. I'll be honest, since this is a interconnected series book 3 (meaning they can be read as standalones), I haven't read her other works but after reading Countpoint I plan to remedy that soon! I would definitely recommend for a heartfelt, nostalgic, good time.
*Thanks Hailey for a copy for an honest ARC review!*
November 16, 2023
Once again, a Hailey book that I read in one sitting.
I honestly am in awe of the strong FMCs she writes every time. Harper is amazing. Even after she went through hell, and she struggled with what was next, she was still very strong and had a lot of self respect.
My score: 5/5
Spice: 3/5
Characters:
Simon - He was such a grump and I loved seeing him communicate more and softening for Harper. I liked seeing him be so respectful once he realized he was kind of an a*hole.
Harper - Another favorite FCM of mine. She was smart, empathic, but without being a pushover. She knew when she needed to accept help, and when to handle things on her own.
Spice wise, it was once again a bit better than the last one (dynamic contrast)
What I didn't really like - I felt like the last part of the book was a bit rushed, we kind of glossed over a few things, even though they were explained on page. I would've liked to see more details about the groveling, job finding, etc.
Overall, another favorite of mine! Hailey, your rock :) I can't wait for the next one. And please don't forget about Mia!!!!
I received this book as an arc reader and this is my honest review.
I honestly am in awe of the strong FMCs she writes every time. Harper is amazing. Even after she went through hell, and she struggled with what was next, she was still very strong and had a lot of self respect.
My score: 5/5
Spice: 3/5
Characters:
Simon - He was such a grump and I loved seeing him communicate more and softening for Harper. I liked seeing him be so respectful once he realized he was kind of an a*hole.
Harper - Another favorite FCM of mine. She was smart, empathic, but without being a pushover. She knew when she needed to accept help, and when to handle things on her own.
Spice wise, it was once again a bit better than the last one (dynamic contrast)
What I didn't really like - I felt like the last part of the book was a bit rushed, we kind of glossed over a few things, even though they were explained on page. I would've liked to see more details about the groveling, job finding, etc.
Overall, another favorite of mine! Hailey, your rock :) I can't wait for the next one. And please don't forget about Mia!!!!
I received this book as an arc reader and this is my honest review.
November 21, 2023
TITLE: Counterpoint
GENRE: Contemporary Romance
AUTHOR: Hailey Frost
TROPE: Rockstar, Brother's Best Friend, Enemies-to-Lovers
TYPE: Series (Hystoria Book 3)
POV: First Person
MY RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 5
⚠️ Check trigger warnings; this dark content is for +18 readers.
WHAT TO EXPECT:
🎤 Hate-to-Love
🎸 Rockstar
🎤 Forced Proximity
🎸 One Bed
🎤 Brother's Best Friend
🎸 Grumpy Sunshine
🎤 Headstrong FMC
Harper has just ended her engagement and finds herself out of a job, so she decides to pack up her things to take a road trip across the country back to the hometown she grew up in so she can regroup around friends and family. As a favour to her brother, Harper had agreed to bring along her brother's best friend, the same person she had hated since her crush broke her heart when they were young.
Harper's story had me invested right from the very beginning of the book until the end. I liked how the storyline flowed, pulling me to read Counterpoint in one sitting. I am giving Counterpoint a rating of 4 / 5 stars.
GENRE: Contemporary Romance
AUTHOR: Hailey Frost
TROPE: Rockstar, Brother's Best Friend, Enemies-to-Lovers
TYPE: Series (Hystoria Book 3)
POV: First Person
MY RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 5
⚠️ Check trigger warnings; this dark content is for +18 readers.
WHAT TO EXPECT:
🎤 Hate-to-Love
🎸 Rockstar
🎤 Forced Proximity
🎸 One Bed
🎤 Brother's Best Friend
🎸 Grumpy Sunshine
🎤 Headstrong FMC
Harper has just ended her engagement and finds herself out of a job, so she decides to pack up her things to take a road trip across the country back to the hometown she grew up in so she can regroup around friends and family. As a favour to her brother, Harper had agreed to bring along her brother's best friend, the same person she had hated since her crush broke her heart when they were young.
Harper's story had me invested right from the very beginning of the book until the end. I liked how the storyline flowed, pulling me to read Counterpoint in one sitting. I am giving Counterpoint a rating of 4 / 5 stars.
October 28, 2025
Started off decent but honestly the whole “trauma” aspect of this was handled so poorly. Her “justice” feels so unsatisfying and didn’t really even have a conclusion about her shitty ex. The feelings seem like they came out of nowhere, his blow up came out of nowhere. We never even got his reaction to all the shit that happened to her or an explanation as to why he blew up at her and booked the separate rooms. We don’t even get 1 chapter of actual romance, we get one date and a sex scene epilogue which is the WORST kind of epilogue ever.
We don’t get to see her really move on with her life other than a few off hand mentions of buying a house and getting her settlement. The MMC is suddenly a shy blushing romantic out of nowhere for the final 2 chapters even though that is the complete opposite of how he was at the beginning and it made no sense.
Just where the fuck did any of this story progression come from?
We don’t get to see her really move on with her life other than a few off hand mentions of buying a house and getting her settlement. The MMC is suddenly a shy blushing romantic out of nowhere for the final 2 chapters even though that is the complete opposite of how he was at the beginning and it made no sense.
Just where the fuck did any of this story progression come from?
November 24, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ wonderful stars.
Harpers and Simons story was my favourite. They were absolutely great together and their story was so easy to read and follow that I finished the book in one sitting.
Harper was once again a very strong female but also sweet and great with Simon. Simon on the other hand was moody and grumpy but so adorable with her.
What I did not like was that again it felt rushed. This book had the potential to be great. The story was good but I want it more with them, more of their romance.
Harper and Simone’s book is a must read if you love sweet romance with no unnecessary drama and to my opinion is a very 🔥🔥🔥 book. ❤️
[I received this book as an ARC reader and this is my honest review]
(I write the above with respect to the authors hard work)
Harpers and Simons story was my favourite. They were absolutely great together and their story was so easy to read and follow that I finished the book in one sitting.
Harper was once again a very strong female but also sweet and great with Simon. Simon on the other hand was moody and grumpy but so adorable with her.
What I did not like was that again it felt rushed. This book had the potential to be great. The story was good but I want it more with them, more of their romance.
Harper and Simone’s book is a must read if you love sweet romance with no unnecessary drama and to my opinion is a very 🔥🔥🔥 book. ❤️
[I received this book as an ARC reader and this is my honest review]
(I write the above with respect to the authors hard work)
November 24, 2023
Rockstar • Brother’s Best Friend • Enemies to Lovers • One Bed • Road Trip
I absolutely loved this book! Definitely my top in this series. This is the ultimate grumpy & sunshine book! I loved Harper. Such a strong and funny FMC. I loved her attitude. Simon was great too even if he is a grump. I really enjoyed their banter.
Plot was great this was really a fun read!
I love everything Hailey writes. Definitely recommend 🖤
I absolutely loved this book! Definitely my top in this series. This is the ultimate grumpy & sunshine book! I loved Harper. Such a strong and funny FMC. I loved her attitude. Simon was great too even if he is a grump. I really enjoyed their banter.
Plot was great this was really a fun read!
I love everything Hailey writes. Definitely recommend 🖤
January 23, 2024
I very much enjoyed it, but as it was a single POV, I feel like we're missing half the story. Why did he book two rooms after having so much fun in the previous hotel and also got some sleep when he couldn't sleep on his own? Why was he so scared in the car? Was there an accident in his backstory? What was in those letters and did he actually grovel enough?
Way too many questions for me.
But the FMC was great, funny and strong.
Way too many questions for me.
But the FMC was great, funny and strong.
November 24, 2023
Just loved the building chemistry between Harper and Si. Loved the book and how Harper is a takes no crap kind of woman. Didn’t put up with Si’s grumpiness and called him out on it. I found lots of funny moments in Counterpoint. Kept me interested throughout the whole book. First book I’ve read from the author. Will definitely read more.
November 24, 2023
So have to say first time reading from this author but have to say it kept me wanting to read and not put it down it also gives another meaning to carpooling 😀 although coming into this on book three there are things mentioned from the others so this gives me a reason to read the first to and eagerly await book four
December 10, 2023
I couldn’t put this book down, I had to know what happened and finished it in 4 hours at 3:30am.
The character development is spot on. The banter, sexual tension, and spice 🤌 all around fabulous. I found myself giggling through the book, cheering on Harp, scolding Si, and wanting to wake my partner up in the middle of the night. Read this book, you won’t be disappointed.
*ARC review*
The character development is spot on. The banter, sexual tension, and spice 🤌 all around fabulous. I found myself giggling through the book, cheering on Harp, scolding Si, and wanting to wake my partner up in the middle of the night. Read this book, you won’t be disappointed.
*ARC review*
December 11, 2023
The feral reader that I am, decided that the 3rd book in this series is where I would start. And I can say that while I was missing some backstory - it wasn't HUGE to Harper & Simon's story.
I love the trope: childhood friends to enemies to lovers. And add in a forced proximity and a one bed trope - SOLD.
Definitely going back to the start - I need to know the backstory!
I love the trope: childhood friends to enemies to lovers. And add in a forced proximity and a one bed trope - SOLD.
Definitely going back to the start - I need to know the backstory!
December 13, 2023
I was so privileged to receive this as an ARC reader... I so loved this book.The general storyline had me interested and I loved harper, the main female character. Some of her characteristics remained me of myself.. The spicy parts were an added extra but not too smutty. I'll be reading the other books in the series very soon!
August 4, 2025
Well.
I like this book. I always wanted to read something where she was in an abusive relationship. The author
did it really good. I loved it.
I just wished Si had seen her bruises. That would be a nice „who did that to you?“
But I still love the two of them. I’m still deciding if I read the other three books in the series or not.
I like this book. I always wanted to read something where she was in an abusive relationship. The author
did it really good. I loved it.
I just wished Si had seen her bruises. That would be a nice „who did that to you?“
But I still love the two of them. I’m still deciding if I read the other three books in the series or not.
December 11, 2023
ARC review:
I loved the overall plot to the book! Characters are fun, loveable and complicated at the same time. Some parts of the story seemed to drag on, and others seemed to miss some details. Overall I enjoyed the book and will read more from Hailey Frost!
I loved the overall plot to the book! Characters are fun, loveable and complicated at the same time. Some parts of the story seemed to drag on, and others seemed to miss some details. Overall I enjoyed the book and will read more from Hailey Frost!
December 17, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I loved this book, it had depth, a great story line and a romance with your brothers band mate and childhood bestie.
It was cute, but also spicy. I’d personally like my own Si please! 😍
A great read that I’d recommend! Looking forward to reading more from this author in future!
I loved this book, it had depth, a great story line and a romance with your brothers band mate and childhood bestie.
It was cute, but also spicy. I’d personally like my own Si please! 😍
A great read that I’d recommend! Looking forward to reading more from this author in future!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 28, 2025
⭐️⭐️
Overall it was a good short story, but it felt very rushed and it would’ve been nice to see more of their relationship at the end instead of it being rushed. Like I said overall it’s a great story with good characters who are easy to fall in love with, just rushed😢
Overall it was a good short story, but it felt very rushed and it would’ve been nice to see more of their relationship at the end instead of it being rushed. Like I said overall it’s a great story with good characters who are easy to fall in love with, just rushed😢
March 25, 2025
Reads like a first draft.
No make up would stay on through all that.
At 85% the heroine genuinely doesn't care if the hero lives or dies. Unusual route for a romance author to take.
Frozen ... paprika?
No make up would stay on through all that.
At 85% the heroine genuinely doesn't care if the hero lives or dies. Unusual route for a romance author to take.
Frozen ... paprika?
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