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Carter Hills Band #2
BlindSided
In a story laced with tension and temptation, April and Carter must navigate the thin line between love and heartbreak, challenging each other in ways they never imagined.
As they both escape the turmoil of their lives in favor of a small mountain town, sparks fly between author April Simmons and music super star musician Carter Hills when they move next door to each other for a month-long vacation. Their banter crackles with a mix of passion and animosity, creating an electric dynamic that draws them together despite their best efforts to resist. When April moves to the small town of Green Mountain, Tennessee, seeking solace in a rustic cabin to get inspired to write her next novel, she isn't expecting to come face-to-face with the enigmatic rock star. As their paths continually cross in this isolated and enchanting setting, April finds herself captivated by her neighbor’s charm, even as she tries to deny the undeniable chemistry between them. With Carter concealing his identity and dealing with the aftermath of a deceitful relationship and April grappling with her own emotions and heartbreaking past, their burgeoning relationship becomes a tantalizing dance of desire and uncertainty.
Will they succumb to the fire burning between them, or will they choose to walk away from the flames that threaten to consume them both?
As they both escape the turmoil of their lives in favor of a small mountain town, sparks fly between author April Simmons and music super star musician Carter Hills when they move next door to each other for a month-long vacation. Their banter crackles with a mix of passion and animosity, creating an electric dynamic that draws them together despite their best efforts to resist. When April moves to the small town of Green Mountain, Tennessee, seeking solace in a rustic cabin to get inspired to write her next novel, she isn't expecting to come face-to-face with the enigmatic rock star. As their paths continually cross in this isolated and enchanting setting, April finds herself captivated by her neighbor’s charm, even as she tries to deny the undeniable chemistry between them. With Carter concealing his identity and dealing with the aftermath of a deceitful relationship and April grappling with her own emotions and heartbreaking past, their burgeoning relationship becomes a tantalizing dance of desire and uncertainty.
Will they succumb to the fire burning between them, or will they choose to walk away from the flames that threaten to consume them both?
354 pages, ebook
Published November 1, 2023
49 people are currently reading
193 people want to read
About the author
Emmanuelle Snow
29 books203 followersSoulfully Beautiful Love Stories
Busy writing your next book boyfriend!
USA Today Bestselling author Emmanuelle Snow is a contemporary author of mature YA and New Adult love stories, who likes to give life to strong characters who’ll fight with all they have to reach their life goals and find their own happiness.
Emmanuelle is in love with love. Especially those complicated, deep, and passionate feelings that make a relationship extraordinary and complex, all at the same time.
She likes her characters to be believable and relatable! And her stories laced with raw emotions.
Grab a tissue box (or two)!
♥Join her ARC team, The Snowmates:
https://emmanuellesnow.com/pages/snow...
♥Visit her bookstore:
http://emmanuellesnow.com
Book series
Carter Hills Band Universe
Busy writing your next book boyfriend!
USA Today Bestselling author Emmanuelle Snow is a contemporary author of mature YA and New Adult love stories, who likes to give life to strong characters who’ll fight with all they have to reach their life goals and find their own happiness.
Emmanuelle is in love with love. Especially those complicated, deep, and passionate feelings that make a relationship extraordinary and complex, all at the same time.
She likes her characters to be believable and relatable! And her stories laced with raw emotions.
Grab a tissue box (or two)!
♥Join her ARC team, The Snowmates:
https://emmanuellesnow.com/pages/snow...
♥Visit her bookstore:
http://emmanuellesnow.com
Book series
Carter Hills Band Universe
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
March 30, 2024
5/5 stars
BlindSided is the new and updated edition of Pink and Country. I read the latter and really enjoyed it a lot. But for some reason I was even more invested in the story the second time I read it. I read it in one day and it utterly consumed me.
The book starts with April. She has a huge writer's block and whatever she does she isn't able to get out of it. Insomnia darkens her nights and she hasn't any inspiration whatsoever. And then her best friend Saunders calls her. Saunders booked a cabin for a high end client, but because he cancelled so late he isn't getting a refund. And she offers April to stay there for a month. April agrees and travels to Green Mountains.
The cabin is located on the land of Carter Hills. He is a famous country artist and often retreats in his cabin to get some peace and quiet. He bought several cabins to expand his property portfolio.
Dahlia and Jack stay with him for a few days. He loves them with all this heart. And I loved that Emmanuelle highlighted their relationship as well. I love how deep and uncomplicated it is after all these years. And how much there is a need between the three of them.
But the second April and Carter's eyes meet, the story kickstarts and accelerates. I felt it instantly in my gut. I absolutely love how she flashes him accidentally. I felt her shame but laughed out loud. I love their banter. Their push and pull. How neither can stay away from the other one. And also find a reason and way to touch each other.
Their chemistry burns off the page. Even though it's a slow burn love story, it is all consuming and so freaking hot. I love how they allow the other one to take tentative steps forwards. And how close they become in just a few days. I truly love the slow burn approach in this novel.
And what happens to Carter in the end completely broke my heart. It felt so relatable and understandable in his position.
And those last few pages! I absolutely cannot wait to read the sequel. And fall away in the rest of their story. And I cannot wait for them both to let loose and fall away in all their soul shattering connection.
Bernice, Dahlia, Jack, Riley, June and Saunders are amazing secondary characters. And they add so much to the story. Especially Bernice! I wish she was mine! (She's a cat by the way! xD)
Emmanuelle, you wrote a masterpiece! You are truly gifted! Keep on writing!
5 huge stars for this brilliant story!
BlindSided is the new and updated edition of Pink and Country. I read the latter and really enjoyed it a lot. But for some reason I was even more invested in the story the second time I read it. I read it in one day and it utterly consumed me.
The book starts with April. She has a huge writer's block and whatever she does she isn't able to get out of it. Insomnia darkens her nights and she hasn't any inspiration whatsoever. And then her best friend Saunders calls her. Saunders booked a cabin for a high end client, but because he cancelled so late he isn't getting a refund. And she offers April to stay there for a month. April agrees and travels to Green Mountains.
The cabin is located on the land of Carter Hills. He is a famous country artist and often retreats in his cabin to get some peace and quiet. He bought several cabins to expand his property portfolio.
Dahlia and Jack stay with him for a few days. He loves them with all this heart. And I loved that Emmanuelle highlighted their relationship as well. I love how deep and uncomplicated it is after all these years. And how much there is a need between the three of them.
But the second April and Carter's eyes meet, the story kickstarts and accelerates. I felt it instantly in my gut. I absolutely love how she flashes him accidentally. I felt her shame but laughed out loud. I love their banter. Their push and pull. How neither can stay away from the other one. And also find a reason and way to touch each other.
Their chemistry burns off the page. Even though it's a slow burn love story, it is all consuming and so freaking hot. I love how they allow the other one to take tentative steps forwards. And how close they become in just a few days. I truly love the slow burn approach in this novel.
And what happens to Carter in the end completely broke my heart. It felt so relatable and understandable in his position.
And those last few pages! I absolutely cannot wait to read the sequel. And fall away in the rest of their story. And I cannot wait for them both to let loose and fall away in all their soul shattering connection.
Bernice, Dahlia, Jack, Riley, June and Saunders are amazing secondary characters. And they add so much to the story. Especially Bernice! I wish she was mine! (She's a cat by the way! xD)
Emmanuelle, you wrote a masterpiece! You are truly gifted! Keep on writing!
5 huge stars for this brilliant story!
April 3, 2024
The way this book sucked me into the story of Carter Hills and April!
I love a good rockstar romance and it has been awhile since I read one. This one definitely got me back in that era.
I connected with April, I felt like a little part of myself was the same as her when reading. I loved getting to know her story more and then the banter she had with Carter from the beginning made me laugh and smile! I kept rooting for these two to FINALLY get together. When I say this was a slow burn, it was a slllooooooowwww burn! But it did have some spicy bits in the middle of that burn. So that kept me yelling at them both to just get together lol.
But they both have very sad pasts and trauma that makes you understand why they are so scared to move forward together, throw in Carter’s fame as well and anyone would be hesitant to start a relationship.
That being said…it ends on a cliffy!! Right when I thought they were going to work everything out lol.
.
.
.
4️⃣⭐️
🌶️
7/10 recommendation
I love a good rockstar romance and it has been awhile since I read one. This one definitely got me back in that era.
I connected with April, I felt like a little part of myself was the same as her when reading. I loved getting to know her story more and then the banter she had with Carter from the beginning made me laugh and smile! I kept rooting for these two to FINALLY get together. When I say this was a slow burn, it was a slllooooooowwww burn! But it did have some spicy bits in the middle of that burn. So that kept me yelling at them both to just get together lol.
But they both have very sad pasts and trauma that makes you understand why they are so scared to move forward together, throw in Carter’s fame as well and anyone would be hesitant to start a relationship.
That being said…it ends on a cliffy!! Right when I thought they were going to work everything out lol.
.
.
.
4️⃣⭐️
🌶️
7/10 recommendation
April 2, 2024
EXCUSE ME THE ENDING?!? I'M STILL PROCESSING IT AND YES THAT'S HOW I'M GONNA START MY REVIEW
oh I am so, so excited for the next book and I cannot wait for all the secrets and all the other things to unravel! Like I have so many questions and jumbled thoughts right now but yes this book definitely served ALL THE FEELS!
I loved the small town charm of this book and also how immersive it was! April and Carter's tension was off the charts but add to that all their so many complex feelings and it just left me so frustrated and somehow, very giddy. These two were so complicated, like April herself had some issues but I loved her, she was literally the cutest and I just loved her whole personality! There's this charm to her which you can't help but fall in love with💗
And Carter was such a confusing man and I cant wait to uncover more of him in book 2 🤭 His thoughts, fears, anxiety were absolutely enormous and it was quite enraging too because i had little to no idea about why he was the way he was.I mean to a certain degree I did understand it, but the WHOLE THING?! no idea! (so yep I will be very impatiently waiting for book 2)
This book gave me so much yet so little, like it's a slow burn but it's also not and it almost like drives you crazy in the best way! I loved that the characters spent so much time together here and just to see the push and pull between them was a little agonizing 😔 This book went very deep with the emotions and I really liked that, Carter's thoughts held so much depth and it just created this sense of mystery to many elements in the book! and in addition to all these, it definitely had some drama too and I cannot wait to see how the next book will slowly but surely reveal the secrets and explain to us all the little and big things!
oh I am so, so excited for the next book and I cannot wait for all the secrets and all the other things to unravel! Like I have so many questions and jumbled thoughts right now but yes this book definitely served ALL THE FEELS!
I loved the small town charm of this book and also how immersive it was! April and Carter's tension was off the charts but add to that all their so many complex feelings and it just left me so frustrated and somehow, very giddy. These two were so complicated, like April herself had some issues but I loved her, she was literally the cutest and I just loved her whole personality! There's this charm to her which you can't help but fall in love with💗
And Carter was such a confusing man and I cant wait to uncover more of him in book 2 🤭 His thoughts, fears, anxiety were absolutely enormous and it was quite enraging too because i had little to no idea about why he was the way he was.I mean to a certain degree I did understand it, but the WHOLE THING?! no idea! (so yep I will be very impatiently waiting for book 2)
This book gave me so much yet so little, like it's a slow burn but it's also not and it almost like drives you crazy in the best way! I loved that the characters spent so much time together here and just to see the push and pull between them was a little agonizing 😔 This book went very deep with the emotions and I really liked that, Carter's thoughts held so much depth and it just created this sense of mystery to many elements in the book! and in addition to all these, it definitely had some drama too and I cannot wait to see how the next book will slowly but surely reveal the secrets and explain to us all the little and big things!
August 4, 2024
This was simply an amazing read! The author handles her craft extremely well. Emmanuelle Snow is able to built a slow burn and nevertheless sizzling atmosphere simultaneously.
Even if this book is not the first in the series, it is possible to start with this one, if you are ok with some spoilers (Hello, spoilers can be really ok, especially, when you enjoy the read, they might make you curious about the background and the narrative strands of another book in the series) But I must admit, it also can be a bit confusing sometimes, especially when there are more books already published. There is a prequel (False Promise) to this one and another book, where the story seems to happen earlier in the timeline too (Sweet Agony). Also good to know is, that this book ( part one of a duet) ends with a cliff hanger! The follow up to this book is „Forever more“.
I enjoyed the whole story from the start, especially the detailed description of a writer with writers block, and the realistic tempo the plot develops from the point, where the main characters meet for the first time. As often both main characters have to overcome some traumata from their past. I will not share about those here, but they have still a strong influence on Carters reactions and behavior. But April too has something troubling from her past which will not be mentioned during her conversations with Carter. There are also some other links to former events without a conclusion in this book, but those will have the reader looking forward to reading the follow ups and the prequel too. Emmanuelle Snow is playing with the reader’s curiosity like a skilled puppet master.
I also enjoyed the slow development regarding the physical attraction between Carter and April. Exactly that is, I suppose, why the reader is captivated and even if other romance books might have more „hands on“ action going on. The scenes here show more of the „sizzling quality“ than those in other romance stories, where a lot of pages are filled with (sometimes boring) descriptions how a spicy evening is correctly orchestrated down to the smallest detail.
Highly recommended is this book for all readers, who like country rock star romance and realistic descriptions of the development and possible problems of budding relationships.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Even if this book is not the first in the series, it is possible to start with this one, if you are ok with some spoilers (Hello, spoilers can be really ok, especially, when you enjoy the read, they might make you curious about the background and the narrative strands of another book in the series) But I must admit, it also can be a bit confusing sometimes, especially when there are more books already published. There is a prequel (False Promise) to this one and another book, where the story seems to happen earlier in the timeline too (Sweet Agony). Also good to know is, that this book ( part one of a duet) ends with a cliff hanger! The follow up to this book is „Forever more“.
I enjoyed the whole story from the start, especially the detailed description of a writer with writers block, and the realistic tempo the plot develops from the point, where the main characters meet for the first time. As often both main characters have to overcome some traumata from their past. I will not share about those here, but they have still a strong influence on Carters reactions and behavior. But April too has something troubling from her past which will not be mentioned during her conversations with Carter. There are also some other links to former events without a conclusion in this book, but those will have the reader looking forward to reading the follow ups and the prequel too. Emmanuelle Snow is playing with the reader’s curiosity like a skilled puppet master.
I also enjoyed the slow development regarding the physical attraction between Carter and April. Exactly that is, I suppose, why the reader is captivated and even if other romance books might have more „hands on“ action going on. The scenes here show more of the „sizzling quality“ than those in other romance stories, where a lot of pages are filled with (sometimes boring) descriptions how a spicy evening is correctly orchestrated down to the smallest detail.
Highly recommended is this book for all readers, who like country rock star romance and realistic descriptions of the development and possible problems of budding relationships.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 2, 2024
This is book one in The Heart Song Duet and it is Carter and April’s story and omg it is definitely a must read. April is a author and after going through something traumatic she now has writers block which is not helping at all because she has a deadline approaching so this couldn’t have happened at the worst time so when her best friend suggested that April needs to get away and it might help her writing April is ready to try anything to see if it helps so that is when she ends up staying in a cabin in Green Mountain to recharge but what she doesn’t know is that this change will end up being life changing. Carter is a famous country star and after going through a ordeal of betrayal he realised that he needs a place to have solitude so that he can come to terms with the deceit so he goes back to his place in Green Mountain so that he can get away from the media so that he can decide what to do next. April and Carter are both dealing with their pasts and had so much baggage and when they meet things don’t go very well but the more time that they connect the stronger the attraction and chemistry grows between them but with them both struggling so badly with their lives will they have any chance of moving forward either together or separately. I love how April keeps Carter guessing and on his toes but will the ghosts of their pasts stop them both from having a future together, only time will tell what the outcome will be for them in the end. This book takes you on a rollercoaster ride of so many emotions and I couldn’t put it down and read it in one sitting and because this is only book one in April and Carter’s duet it will end in a cliffhanger leaving you needing the next book to find out what will happen next and I can’t wait to read it.
April 2, 2024
I originally read this book as Pink and Country, back when it was full-length, before it was slightly changed and split into a duet. I will hold on dearly to my original, signed copy of Pink.
This book, the story, the writing - all absolutely incredible! It remains pretty much the same as in its original version, with the same beloved Carter and April I fell in love with and who brought me to the entire Carter Hills Band Universe of books (which I am completely obsessed with, plus with Emmanuelle herself)!
What a beautiful story, amazing writing, and so much chemistry - between all the characters, not just Carter and April. I got lost in this one and read it so quickly. The original book was over 500 pages, so the new split for the duet is far less intimidating at about 350 for this half. Part 2 will be coming along before we know it, with the extremely emotional second half - because I know the original version, I know I can hold on to get the conclusion and see what changes may be coming along, but anyone new will be dying to find out, based on the cliffhanger where she split it!
This half has a whole lot of emotions, a whole lot of heart, and that slow burn, grumpy sunshine, angsty rockstar, next-door neighbor romance... with a head-in-the-sand pink-haired author who is clueless about who the famous musician is, and he’s loving the anonymity - especially when his crazy ex has plastered the magazines with slanderous lies about him.
I most wholeheartedly recommend this one to absolutely everybody! A 5+ star book if I ever came across one! It’s just as good as the first time I read it. I cannot wait to read the updated second half!
I received an advance copy from the author, and this is my honest feedback.
This book, the story, the writing - all absolutely incredible! It remains pretty much the same as in its original version, with the same beloved Carter and April I fell in love with and who brought me to the entire Carter Hills Band Universe of books (which I am completely obsessed with, plus with Emmanuelle herself)!
What a beautiful story, amazing writing, and so much chemistry - between all the characters, not just Carter and April. I got lost in this one and read it so quickly. The original book was over 500 pages, so the new split for the duet is far less intimidating at about 350 for this half. Part 2 will be coming along before we know it, with the extremely emotional second half - because I know the original version, I know I can hold on to get the conclusion and see what changes may be coming along, but anyone new will be dying to find out, based on the cliffhanger where she split it!
This half has a whole lot of emotions, a whole lot of heart, and that slow burn, grumpy sunshine, angsty rockstar, next-door neighbor romance... with a head-in-the-sand pink-haired author who is clueless about who the famous musician is, and he’s loving the anonymity - especially when his crazy ex has plastered the magazines with slanderous lies about him.
I most wholeheartedly recommend this one to absolutely everybody! A 5+ star book if I ever came across one! It’s just as good as the first time I read it. I cannot wait to read the updated second half!
I received an advance copy from the author, and this is my honest feedback.
April 26, 2024
April is an author struggling to write her next novel. While suffering from writers block her best friend has the brilliant idea for April to leave town and stay in a cabin for a month when her client had to cancel at the last minute. April thinking that this might be just what she needs to get the creative juices flowing takes her up on the offer.
Carter is the hottest thing in country music and with media going crazy over his latest breakup he escapes to his house in the country. Looking to get away and clear his head he goes to the one place media cannot get to. What he wasn't expecting was to be so attracted to the girl in the cabin next door.
When April sees Carter for the first time she is instantly attracted to the Hot Neighbor. His eyes catch hers and an embarrassing moment leads to lots of banter and moments between the two. April finally is able to start writing and Carter starts to believe that all is not lost in his life.
This is a beautiful story between two people who don't even disclose their names to each other for most of the book. They developed a friendship and then they start to develop feelings. She has no idea who he is and likes him because of him not his celebrity status.
Can we talk about this ending for a moment?????? Ummmm where is the next book because I NEED to know the rest of the story. I am now on edge waiting for more of April and Carter.
Carter is the hottest thing in country music and with media going crazy over his latest breakup he escapes to his house in the country. Looking to get away and clear his head he goes to the one place media cannot get to. What he wasn't expecting was to be so attracted to the girl in the cabin next door.
When April sees Carter for the first time she is instantly attracted to the Hot Neighbor. His eyes catch hers and an embarrassing moment leads to lots of banter and moments between the two. April finally is able to start writing and Carter starts to believe that all is not lost in his life.
This is a beautiful story between two people who don't even disclose their names to each other for most of the book. They developed a friendship and then they start to develop feelings. She has no idea who he is and likes him because of him not his celebrity status.
Can we talk about this ending for a moment?????? Ummmm where is the next book because I NEED to know the rest of the story. I am now on edge waiting for more of April and Carter.
April 8, 2024
Blindsided is another wonderful, heartwarming story from Emmanuelle Snow and the start of Carter & April's love story.
We get grumpy country music star Carter Hills who is hiding out at his cabin to escape the paparazzi and an ex who still wants to cash in on his name. April is a writer who is trying to push through her writers block and ends up at the cabin next door. She has no idea who he is, but she knows he's annoying and gets on her nerves, pretty much every time she talks to him.
When these two are forced to spend time together in one cabin (forced proximity anyone), they have to learn to like each other, and what was once annoyance, slowly becomes friendship and then ultimately love. Their initial banter just made my insides cheer, I love that kinda thing and Emmanuelle didn't disappoint. I'm such a fan of her character building and in this one, I loved that we got a look into the past of these two- all their heartaches, flaws, insecurities that led them onto the path of where they were now.
We've got angst, we've got spice, we've got tenderness and friendship, grumpy/sunshine, all those special parts that you want to get you totally immersed into a book.
I am anxiously awaiting the next one. Come and spend some time with Carter & April, you won't be disappointed.
Thank you so much Emmanuelle for letting me read your beautiful story!
We get grumpy country music star Carter Hills who is hiding out at his cabin to escape the paparazzi and an ex who still wants to cash in on his name. April is a writer who is trying to push through her writers block and ends up at the cabin next door. She has no idea who he is, but she knows he's annoying and gets on her nerves, pretty much every time she talks to him.
When these two are forced to spend time together in one cabin (forced proximity anyone), they have to learn to like each other, and what was once annoyance, slowly becomes friendship and then ultimately love. Their initial banter just made my insides cheer, I love that kinda thing and Emmanuelle didn't disappoint. I'm such a fan of her character building and in this one, I loved that we got a look into the past of these two- all their heartaches, flaws, insecurities that led them onto the path of where they were now.
We've got angst, we've got spice, we've got tenderness and friendship, grumpy/sunshine, all those special parts that you want to get you totally immersed into a book.
I am anxiously awaiting the next one. Come and spend some time with Carter & April, you won't be disappointed.
Thank you so much Emmanuelle for letting me read your beautiful story!
June 22, 2024
Blindsided blinded me !
April Simmons, grappling with writer's block and insomnia, decides to take a month-long retreat to a secluded mountain cabin in Green Mountain, Tennessee to rejuvenate her life. Unexpectedly, she finds herself right next door with the most attractive man she has ever encountered. And their first encounter, well let's just say there was a mishap with a towel and a window!
Carter Hills, music superstar is hiding out in his private cabin, trying to escape the latest media backlash regarding his personal life. So, encountering a stunning woman watching him out the window from the cabin next door, only wearing a towel!
From here, they embark on a love hate relationship, Carter keeps his identity hidden and it becomes clear to him that she doesn't recognize him. The slow burn is not something that I usually enjoy, but with these two it was perfectly created. The chemistry is just magic, the emotions Emmanuelle takes you on is next level. Carter's heart is so pure, and his struggles with allowing his heart to love without fear it being rejected and broken again is tear worthy. Aprils heart also has struggles, dealing with her painful childhood. They both have major trust issues to overcome, opening themselves up to a possible future has definite obstacles for them both to face.
The side characters make the story so much more, Dahlia and Jack add that extra pull on the heart strings moments.
5 big stars Emmanuelle, thank you for this amazing ARC read. Much appreciated !
April Simmons, grappling with writer's block and insomnia, decides to take a month-long retreat to a secluded mountain cabin in Green Mountain, Tennessee to rejuvenate her life. Unexpectedly, she finds herself right next door with the most attractive man she has ever encountered. And their first encounter, well let's just say there was a mishap with a towel and a window!
Carter Hills, music superstar is hiding out in his private cabin, trying to escape the latest media backlash regarding his personal life. So, encountering a stunning woman watching him out the window from the cabin next door, only wearing a towel!
From here, they embark on a love hate relationship, Carter keeps his identity hidden and it becomes clear to him that she doesn't recognize him. The slow burn is not something that I usually enjoy, but with these two it was perfectly created. The chemistry is just magic, the emotions Emmanuelle takes you on is next level. Carter's heart is so pure, and his struggles with allowing his heart to love without fear it being rejected and broken again is tear worthy. Aprils heart also has struggles, dealing with her painful childhood. They both have major trust issues to overcome, opening themselves up to a possible future has definite obstacles for them both to face.
The side characters make the story so much more, Dahlia and Jack add that extra pull on the heart strings moments.
5 big stars Emmanuelle, thank you for this amazing ARC read. Much appreciated !
June 23, 2024
I loved the beginning of Carter and April's story, they are so cute together!
As an author myself, one thing I noticed when reading "Blindsided" is how Emmanuelle's writing style is similar to mine which made the book even more enjoyable to read. 🙂
Another thing I really enjoyed about it is that it's closer to a sweet romance instead of a steamy one and the way Emmanuelle described dealing with an anxiety attack was pretty much spot on and very well-written.
One of my favorite scenes from Blindsided was when Carter taught April how to play the guitar, that was really sweet of him to do that. Two more scenes I loved was the one in the kitchen in chapter 15 and when they went sledding together.
And this was one of my favorite lines from Blindsided;
“Carter Hills. The country music legend. The sexiest singer on the planet. Also known as the fit bloke who makes an entire stadium wet their panties when he plays the guitar and sings love songs.”
In conclusion, Blindsided is a great, beautifully written story with lots of both sweet and emotional moments with just the right amount of spice mixed in.
I loved this book so much and will be starting book 2 soon! 🙂🩷
*I received an ARC from The Author Agency and am voluntarily leaving a review.
As an author myself, one thing I noticed when reading "Blindsided" is how Emmanuelle's writing style is similar to mine which made the book even more enjoyable to read. 🙂
Another thing I really enjoyed about it is that it's closer to a sweet romance instead of a steamy one and the way Emmanuelle described dealing with an anxiety attack was pretty much spot on and very well-written.
One of my favorite scenes from Blindsided was when Carter taught April how to play the guitar, that was really sweet of him to do that. Two more scenes I loved was the one in the kitchen in chapter 15 and when they went sledding together.
And this was one of my favorite lines from Blindsided;
“Carter Hills. The country music legend. The sexiest singer on the planet. Also known as the fit bloke who makes an entire stadium wet their panties when he plays the guitar and sings love songs.”
In conclusion, Blindsided is a great, beautifully written story with lots of both sweet and emotional moments with just the right amount of spice mixed in.
I loved this book so much and will be starting book 2 soon! 🙂🩷
*I received an ARC from The Author Agency and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 1, 2024
Hold on to your heart, it’s about to take an epic ride. April and Carter had me absolutely enthralled. The witty remarks and heated banter these two exchanged (and sometimes outright spewed) at each other had me wondering if this slow burn romance was ever going to take the turn I so desperately needed it to take. Enemies to lovers isn’t quite the right term, but it came with that sort of feel. Or a grumpy/grumpy? Separately, April and Carter have a lot of love and light, but they ignite a deep passion within each other that they can’t quite figure out how to express, besides pushing each other’s buttons.
Both characters come with their own tragic and dark backstories, which causes them to hold back their feelings. They both know how to stiff arm emotions headed towards them, keeping people at bay, especially one another. Until the moment the tension snaps….but quite possibly slingshotting them in all the wrong directions.
I had chills, felt all of the angst, my stomach rolled over multiple times, my heart clenched, and I feared it wouldn’t beat again. Especially at the epic cliffhanger we’re left with at the end!
Both characters come with their own tragic and dark backstories, which causes them to hold back their feelings. They both know how to stiff arm emotions headed towards them, keeping people at bay, especially one another. Until the moment the tension snaps….but quite possibly slingshotting them in all the wrong directions.
I had chills, felt all of the angst, my stomach rolled over multiple times, my heart clenched, and I feared it wouldn’t beat again. Especially at the epic cliffhanger we’re left with at the end!
June 30, 2024
Carter is a free man and feeling like his old self. The breakup was brutal and that woman was still trying to ruin him. But he decided to move on and just ignore her craziness.
April was a writer and lately she’d been experiencing writers block. Her best friend talked her into going to Green Mountain for a month rent free. Maybe this would get her brain on track. Carter saw April from outside, she was wrapped in a towel that she accidentally dropped. Their eyes locked from afar, she got so nervous she dropped the towel. Carter couldn’t stop thinking of her, the vision of her was stuck in his brain. April thought he was the most beautiful man she’d seen in some time. But he was with his family, she didn’t know it wasn’t his wife and son.
They finally meet and discover this chemistry they have and this seems like finally a love story. I was wrong, it continues as a daily journal of Carter’s life. There were lunch dates, there were dinners and ice skating that led to absolutely nothing. Carter is still the neurotic rockstar with mommy issues. It’s a cliffhanger so there’s more of this. I’m giving this book three stars.
April was a writer and lately she’d been experiencing writers block. Her best friend talked her into going to Green Mountain for a month rent free. Maybe this would get her brain on track. Carter saw April from outside, she was wrapped in a towel that she accidentally dropped. Their eyes locked from afar, she got so nervous she dropped the towel. Carter couldn’t stop thinking of her, the vision of her was stuck in his brain. April thought he was the most beautiful man she’d seen in some time. But he was with his family, she didn’t know it wasn’t his wife and son.
They finally meet and discover this chemistry they have and this seems like finally a love story. I was wrong, it continues as a daily journal of Carter’s life. There were lunch dates, there were dinners and ice skating that led to absolutely nothing. Carter is still the neurotic rockstar with mommy issues. It’s a cliffhanger so there’s more of this. I’m giving this book three stars.
April 9, 2024
This book was not at all what I expected, and that’s in a good way!
In Blindsided we are following both Carter and April’s journeys of healing. Carter just left a very public and toxic relationship while April hasn’t found love since her fiance passed away.
April is stuck with writer’s block, so her best friend sends her on a mountain lodge holiday to try and get her out of it. She discovers that she has a hot neighbour, who grabs her interest.
Carter is a famous country singer who has become disillusioned with the industry and also escapes to the mountains to try and get his bearings after being used by a starlet for his fame. He is instantly attracted to a pink haired woman who lives in a cabin across from him that he owns and manages.
I enjoyed the banter between the two of them and liked how their relationship progressed but the rollercoaster of them did start to get a bit frustrating. I understand a slow burn and that they needed to come to grips with Carter being constantly in the public eye, but I wanted more between them. I also kind of got bored of the different nicknames, especially as they got closer to each other.
That cliffhanger had me dying to see what happens next though! And I do appreciate that they both had to do some personal work before accepting that they wanted to take the risk in being together.
Thank you to Emmanuelle Snow for the advanced readers copy in exchange for an honest review, all thoughts and opinions are my own!
In Blindsided we are following both Carter and April’s journeys of healing. Carter just left a very public and toxic relationship while April hasn’t found love since her fiance passed away.
April is stuck with writer’s block, so her best friend sends her on a mountain lodge holiday to try and get her out of it. She discovers that she has a hot neighbour, who grabs her interest.
Carter is a famous country singer who has become disillusioned with the industry and also escapes to the mountains to try and get his bearings after being used by a starlet for his fame. He is instantly attracted to a pink haired woman who lives in a cabin across from him that he owns and manages.
I enjoyed the banter between the two of them and liked how their relationship progressed but the rollercoaster of them did start to get a bit frustrating. I understand a slow burn and that they needed to come to grips with Carter being constantly in the public eye, but I wanted more between them. I also kind of got bored of the different nicknames, especially as they got closer to each other.
That cliffhanger had me dying to see what happens next though! And I do appreciate that they both had to do some personal work before accepting that they wanted to take the risk in being together.
Thank you to Emmanuelle Snow for the advanced readers copy in exchange for an honest review, all thoughts and opinions are my own!
April 5, 2024
April and Carter’s story is one that I throughly enjoyed with all the emotions, banter, and tension. Carter is a famous rockstar that is trying to escape his past by laying low and keeping to himself, yet when he meets April her personality and beauty stun him. He shoves down the feelings she is bringing out in him because the way he was burned before (and yes I read this as Pink and Country this is just a tad different and split into two books so I know more about his past relationship). As much as he is intrigued by this amazing woman he just can’t open up to her even though the pull to her keeps getting stronger. April comes with her own baggage that keeps her from exploring her attraction to Carter, but their banter and the tension keeps pulling them together no matter how hard they fight it. The emotional web that the author weaves in her stories will grip your heart, shred it to pieces, and then eventually mend them but it’s a ride that you don’t want to stop and Carter and April’s story is no different. It does end on a cliffhanger but book 2 has me waiting (im)patiently.
June 6, 2024
4.25/5
Tropes:
-small town
-author x country star
-soulmates
-grumpy x sunshine
-enemies to lovers
This is a new to me author and I quite enjoyed this book! BlindSided is the updated version of Pink and Country in the Carter Hills Band series and is Carter and April's story.
April, an author, has writer's block after having a traumatic experience. Her best friend suggests that she gets away for a bit to see if it will help her. April finds herself in a cabin in Green Mountain. Carter, a country music star, goes off to his cabin to escape the media and have some solitude. Carter is instantly attracted to the woman he sees.
This is a beautifully written emotional story and is part one of a duet. The tension and banter between them add to the story nicely and keeps bringing them together no matter how hard April wants to fight it. This book will definitely have you feeling all the emotions and I can't wait to read the continuation of their story as this does end in a cliffhanger.
I received an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
Tropes:
-small town
-author x country star
-soulmates
-grumpy x sunshine
-enemies to lovers
This is a new to me author and I quite enjoyed this book! BlindSided is the updated version of Pink and Country in the Carter Hills Band series and is Carter and April's story.
April, an author, has writer's block after having a traumatic experience. Her best friend suggests that she gets away for a bit to see if it will help her. April finds herself in a cabin in Green Mountain. Carter, a country music star, goes off to his cabin to escape the media and have some solitude. Carter is instantly attracted to the woman he sees.
This is a beautifully written emotional story and is part one of a duet. The tension and banter between them add to the story nicely and keeps bringing them together no matter how hard April wants to fight it. This book will definitely have you feeling all the emotions and I can't wait to read the continuation of their story as this does end in a cliffhanger.
I received an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 22, 2024
Emmanuelle Snow - Wow! Why am I just now finding this author? I fell in love with her writing early into this read because it was that good. New fan here! The story was captivating from beginning to end.
Blindsided is book one in the Heart Song duet and the start of April and Carter's journey. What a journey it was! I am so glad I had book two ready on my Kindle because that ending...O.M.G!
I love a good slow burn when the plot is strong and the characters are relatable and lovable, and Carter and April were all that and so much more. When two complex individuals are drawn to each other, there's bound to be chemistry and tension and they had that in spades. Although they were both dealing with trauma/heartbreak on their own, and neither were looking for anything, what they needed and sought in each other could not be denied.
Their journey was real, raw, and emotional and had me rooting for them through the pages. I cannot wait to get started on Forever more to see where this fated couple ends up. I highly recommend this book!
Blindsided is book one in the Heart Song duet and the start of April and Carter's journey. What a journey it was! I am so glad I had book two ready on my Kindle because that ending...O.M.G!
I love a good slow burn when the plot is strong and the characters are relatable and lovable, and Carter and April were all that and so much more. When two complex individuals are drawn to each other, there's bound to be chemistry and tension and they had that in spades. Although they were both dealing with trauma/heartbreak on their own, and neither were looking for anything, what they needed and sought in each other could not be denied.
Their journey was real, raw, and emotional and had me rooting for them through the pages. I cannot wait to get started on Forever more to see where this fated couple ends up. I highly recommend this book!
March 30, 2024
I read and loved Pink and Country when it was published. I love the breakdown of the individual stories even more. False Promises is the story of Carter and Savannah Prince, while BlindSided is just the beginning of Carter's journey to healing and finding love again after being badly burned by the evil Savannah Prince.
Emmanuelle knows how to write relatable love stories complete with banter, grit, emotions, and sexual tension that can be cut with a knife. She's knows the way to her readers' hearts with the cozy mountain cabin vibes and the song lyrics that will make us giddy with excitement to see Carter's love for April on the page.
You don't want to miss this book or this series. Even if you already read Pink and Country, it's worth every minute to read this entire series again! It doesn't disappoint!!
Thank you to Emmanuelle Snow and Smart Lily Publishing for the e-ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own!!
Emmanuelle knows how to write relatable love stories complete with banter, grit, emotions, and sexual tension that can be cut with a knife. She's knows the way to her readers' hearts with the cozy mountain cabin vibes and the song lyrics that will make us giddy with excitement to see Carter's love for April on the page.
You don't want to miss this book or this series. Even if you already read Pink and Country, it's worth every minute to read this entire series again! It doesn't disappoint!!
Thank you to Emmanuelle Snow and Smart Lily Publishing for the e-ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own!!
April 9, 2024
I absolutely loved Carter and April’s whirlwind love story. Right from the start these two had me completely captivated and hooked on them. I was continually laughing at their antics, the funny mishaps and the snappy comebacks. They had me gushing with love over the slow burn build up to what was sure to be a once in a lifetime romance budding right before my eyes. I loved watching them grow and slowly fall head over heels in love. I could not get enough of these two.
The emotions just pour off the pages and at times had me in tears over the immense love that was oozing out. Filled with angst, drama, intense emotional turmoil, suspense and some very steamy moments, this was one really well written story that captured my heart and left a permanent smile on my face.
Spectacular and beautiful love story!
The emotions just pour off the pages and at times had me in tears over the immense love that was oozing out. Filled with angst, drama, intense emotional turmoil, suspense and some very steamy moments, this was one really well written story that captured my heart and left a permanent smile on my face.
Spectacular and beautiful love story!
June 21, 2024
This is book 1 in a duet - you have been warned!
It's no secret that I love a duet / trilogy book and this one was good! This is the story of Carter and April. Carter is the Carter Hills a famous rockstar and April is a small town girl. For different reasons they both end up in cabin's next door to each other, Carter to escape a toxic relationship and the press and April to get away from life and try and get her writing mojo back. This book is a SLOW burn where Carter and April go from dislike, to like (friends) to almost more. They are both very reluctant to get into a future relationship but the pull is strong.
I really enjoyed this author's writing style. She really pulls at your emotions and did a wonderful job of making you feel it!
It's no secret that I love a duet / trilogy book and this one was good! This is the story of Carter and April. Carter is the Carter Hills a famous rockstar and April is a small town girl. For different reasons they both end up in cabin's next door to each other, Carter to escape a toxic relationship and the press and April to get away from life and try and get her writing mojo back. This book is a SLOW burn where Carter and April go from dislike, to like (friends) to almost more. They are both very reluctant to get into a future relationship but the pull is strong.
I really enjoyed this author's writing style. She really pulls at your emotions and did a wonderful job of making you feel it!
March 28, 2024
BlindSided, originally published as Pink and Country is a grumpy/sunshine rockstar romance. Carter Hills is hiding away from the drama that comes with being a country music heartthrob. April is an author trying to rekindle her creativity with a small-town retreat. BlindSided is a lovely, angsty, emotional rollercoaster. This authentic, heartwarming story will hit you in all the feels and piece you back together. BlindSided has so many wonderful layers that Emmanuelle reveals in a lovely way that keeps you enthralled to the very end. If you love a spicy, slow-burn romance with a brooding, charismatic hero and a kind, tough, dazzling heroine, you won’t want to miss BlindSided!
April 3, 2024
Ahh April and Carter are so good together. I don't mean just the chemistry they share but the emotional bond as well. It is like their souls were yearning for one another. Especially true for Carter. He being a celebrity has to have his guard up as he does not know who is true or fake. So, I could understand his hesitation when he first met April.
April made quite the first impression on Carter. She wowed him with her fairy pink hair among other assets. However, it did not take too long before these two were sharing a kiss. What a kiss too. I liked these two.
I read this book quickly. Another emotional, good read from Emmanuelle.
April made quite the first impression on Carter. She wowed him with her fairy pink hair among other assets. However, it did not take too long before these two were sharing a kiss. What a kiss too. I liked these two.
I read this book quickly. Another emotional, good read from Emmanuelle.
April 3, 2024
I've developed an addiction with stories that have a lot of emotional intensity, and when I tried a new author (well not so new now) it turned out to be an amazing choice.
The main characters, Carter and April, both have troubled pasts that constantly messes up their search for peace. However, when they meet, there are instant sparks and their relationship becomes all-consuming. They have to battle their inner demons and face obstacles from others who try to keep them apart.
This book is the first in a duet, and I'm definitely excited to come back and find out what happens next.
The main characters, Carter and April, both have troubled pasts that constantly messes up their search for peace. However, when they meet, there are instant sparks and their relationship becomes all-consuming. They have to battle their inner demons and face obstacles from others who try to keep them apart.
This book is the first in a duet, and I'm definitely excited to come back and find out what happens next.
April 3, 2024
I fell in love with April and Carter in the first edition of them, but all the added stuff just made it so much more lovable. Emmanuelle writes books and makes you feel all of the emotions through each page.
Everything that Carter has gone through (you don't learn all of it just yet) makes him the person he is in this book. If you read his and Savannah's story you know how toxic that relationship was and why he's wary with telling April things.
April is such a sweet fun loving sassy soul. The side she brings out of Carter :)!
I can not wait to read book two and see what else has been added to their love story.
Everything that Carter has gone through (you don't learn all of it just yet) makes him the person he is in this book. If you read his and Savannah's story you know how toxic that relationship was and why he's wary with telling April things.
April is such a sweet fun loving sassy soul. The side she brings out of Carter :)!
I can not wait to read book two and see what else has been added to their love story.
March 15, 2024
Welcome to the magical world of Emmanuelle Snow. Prepare to be Blind sided while following Carter and April’s journey. Formerly known as Pink and Country, this book has romantic boy next door vibes with a hint of country and music.
Carter is running away from his problems and April needs a change of scenery. She runs to a cabin in the mountains which is owned by a grumpy turned cinnamon roll country music artist- Carter Hills. Can they face their ghosts and move ahead together or will they run away?
Carter is running away from his problems and April needs a change of scenery. She runs to a cabin in the mountains which is owned by a grumpy turned cinnamon roll country music artist- Carter Hills. Can they face their ghosts and move ahead together or will they run away?
April 11, 2024
WOW.
I became obsessed instantly obsessed with the characters and how their relationship would develop, and I was not disappointed!!
Throughout the book I wanted to shake both of the main characters for different reasons, and I felt it difficult to connect with the MFC at some parts, which is the only reason I’ve given 4 stars.
If you are a fan of Elsie Silver you will LOVE this book.
I feel very fortunate to have received this copy to review, thank you Book Funnel! I will definitely be reading more by the author.
I became obsessed instantly obsessed with the characters and how their relationship would develop, and I was not disappointed!!
Throughout the book I wanted to shake both of the main characters for different reasons, and I felt it difficult to connect with the MFC at some parts, which is the only reason I’ve given 4 stars.
If you are a fan of Elsie Silver you will LOVE this book.
I feel very fortunate to have received this copy to review, thank you Book Funnel! I will definitely be reading more by the author.
April 18, 2024
Carter & April
I liked that April was oblivious to who he was but didn't like her assumptions around the dynamics with Dahlia & Jack.
It was and still is a slow burn to a relationship but there are steamy interactions to keep you intrigued along the way. Those scenes also help to build the chemistry between them.
There were points where I wanted to get there quicker and wasn't 100% where in April's stay we were. That might just have been because I expected & was in the mood for a faster book.
I've added the other books to my tbr.
I liked that April was oblivious to who he was but didn't like her assumptions around the dynamics with Dahlia & Jack.
It was and still is a slow burn to a relationship but there are steamy interactions to keep you intrigued along the way. Those scenes also help to build the chemistry between them.
There were points where I wanted to get there quicker and wasn't 100% where in April's stay we were. That might just have been because I expected & was in the mood for a faster book.
I've added the other books to my tbr.
May 30, 2024
I started this book thinking I would read it for a couple of hours and then go to sleep. It’s 2:20 AM and I just finished because I.COULD.NOT.PUT.IT.DOWN. I am so invested in April and Carter’s story. I can’t wait for Forever More to come out. I’m assuming I could read the original versions and have my questions answered but I’m waiting (impatiently) for the follow up to this revised edition. I’m seriously ate up with the angst in this book right along with the witty banter. I felt like I was having a panic attack when Carter was having his. April is too precious for words 🩷
June 14, 2024
Having read April and Carter's story before in Pink and Country I did know at least a little bit of what to expect in the story. But Emmanuelle Snow has surprised me yet again with the way she's changed things, and it feels like something new and even more amazing than it had been before. Reading this I've fallen back in love with April and Carter, and I love seeing the changes that were made and some things that were kept about the same.
Thank you Emmanuelle for an arc of this book, and I can't wait to gush over Forevermore.
Thank you Emmanuelle for an arc of this book, and I can't wait to gush over Forevermore.
April 1, 2024
The story of Carter and April has everything you want in a romance book. The banter when they first meet. The thick sexual tension that you're waiting to explode. Spicy spicy scenes when it finally happens.
The story tugged at my heart. They both came from heartbreaking pasts that shaped the way they saw themselves. Two people who thought they didn't deserve love, find it in each other.
This is a great read, detailed chapters and a fabulous storyline.
The story tugged at my heart. They both came from heartbreaking pasts that shaped the way they saw themselves. Two people who thought they didn't deserve love, find it in each other.
This is a great read, detailed chapters and a fabulous storyline.
April 2, 2024
What a great read from Emmanuelle Snow!
This book took me on an emotional whirlwind. Whilst reading, I was laughing, smiling, swooning, and then feeling immense sadness. I truly loved getting to see April and Carter as characters, and the romance brewing between them. The tension between them was so captivating, and had me intrigued right to the end.
Know going in, that is does end on a cliffhanger, and that it will leave you wanting and waiting for the next one!!
4/5 Stars!
This book took me on an emotional whirlwind. Whilst reading, I was laughing, smiling, swooning, and then feeling immense sadness. I truly loved getting to see April and Carter as characters, and the romance brewing between them. The tension between them was so captivating, and had me intrigued right to the end.
Know going in, that is does end on a cliffhanger, and that it will leave you wanting and waiting for the next one!!
4/5 Stars!
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