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Driftwood Daffodil
One night...
That's all it took to change everything. Now my brother was locked up, my sister was dead inside, and I was left behind. Not a survivor or a shoulder to lean on. Just someone existing. Why shoot for the stars when disappointment was just around the corner?
My disappointment came in the form of Gio Mancini. Youngest son of the most powerful family in town. So much for senior year being the best one. There was a reason my best friend called Soiree the town of cement shoes.
Now I had a choice to make. Did I sell my soul... or try and put it back together?
That question would be answered with one simple knock, knock.
My name is Novalee Ford, and I'm the daffodil that stopped fighting for the sun.
That's all it took to change everything. Now my brother was locked up, my sister was dead inside, and I was left behind. Not a survivor or a shoulder to lean on. Just someone existing. Why shoot for the stars when disappointment was just around the corner?
My disappointment came in the form of Gio Mancini. Youngest son of the most powerful family in town. So much for senior year being the best one. There was a reason my best friend called Soiree the town of cement shoes.
Now I had a choice to make. Did I sell my soul... or try and put it back together?
That question would be answered with one simple knock, knock.
My name is Novalee Ford, and I'm the daffodil that stopped fighting for the sun.
390 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 27, 2023
236 people are currently reading
826 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews
December 5, 2023
Move over book boyfriends. I am expanding my harem to include my first ever book girlfriend. NovaLee Ford just rocked all up in my world and knocked my socks off. Unintentionally hysterical, purposefully obtuse, devoted sister... You can say any of those and be 100% accurate.
"I stopped to cock a brow at the bright red hore painted across my hood. Well, it was good to know originality was still alive and well. Sighing, I unzipped my backpack and dug around inside for a marker. After which I stepped on the front bumper, reached out, and added a W. Much better. If I was going to drive around with a slur sprawled across my truck then it sure as hell was going to be spelt right."
Next, there's Gio. Grumpy guss. Horrible stalker. Major a§§ with a palm that makes girls weep. Gio is our love interest, and Nova doesn't even realize it. The confusion and bewilderment that Nova leaves in her wake for him is truly commendable. He is full of exasperated fury, and he has his heart (that's what they're calling it these days, right?) set on destroying Nova in all the best ways. And some of the worst ones, too.
There are several sparks to be found, but no flames. If you're looking for smut, keep on moving. I'm guessing we'll get to that in the next book. But, in complete honesty, I didn't miss it. I was having too much fun getting to know Nova's character. I woke Mr. Kleine because I was laughing so hard I nearly hyperventilated.
I know that all I've really talked about so far is the humor, but there is a darker undercurrent once you get into the heart of the matter. 1 brother dead, 1 brother in prison, a boy who craves revenge at any cost, a girl who feels the weight of the world on her shoulders, a couple of kids with questionable parentage, at least 2 considerable mysteries, and multiple fool friends to round out the party.
And speaking of best friends - I want to shine a spotlight on Memphis, Nova's best friend for forever. The female lead having a male best friend is one thing, but a gay male best friend in a Catholic school setting takes it up a few notches. And don't think for one minute that Memphis is like every other gay man portrayed in romance novels. He isn't a stereotype. He isn't cookie cutter. There's no evidence that he loves fashion. Memphis may just be the most real out of all the different characters in this book. And I really commend the author because it was a big, bold, and beautiful choice that was executed perfectly.
Driftwood Daffodils is not your expected mafia romance in a lot of ways, but I have a feeling that this is just a warm up. It's only going to get better.
"I stopped to cock a brow at the bright red hore painted across my hood. Well, it was good to know originality was still alive and well. Sighing, I unzipped my backpack and dug around inside for a marker. After which I stepped on the front bumper, reached out, and added a W. Much better. If I was going to drive around with a slur sprawled across my truck then it sure as hell was going to be spelt right."
Next, there's Gio. Grumpy guss. Horrible stalker. Major a§§ with a palm that makes girls weep. Gio is our love interest, and Nova doesn't even realize it. The confusion and bewilderment that Nova leaves in her wake for him is truly commendable. He is full of exasperated fury, and he has his heart (that's what they're calling it these days, right?) set on destroying Nova in all the best ways. And some of the worst ones, too.
There are several sparks to be found, but no flames. If you're looking for smut, keep on moving. I'm guessing we'll get to that in the next book. But, in complete honesty, I didn't miss it. I was having too much fun getting to know Nova's character. I woke Mr. Kleine because I was laughing so hard I nearly hyperventilated.
I know that all I've really talked about so far is the humor, but there is a darker undercurrent once you get into the heart of the matter. 1 brother dead, 1 brother in prison, a boy who craves revenge at any cost, a girl who feels the weight of the world on her shoulders, a couple of kids with questionable parentage, at least 2 considerable mysteries, and multiple fool friends to round out the party.
And speaking of best friends - I want to shine a spotlight on Memphis, Nova's best friend for forever. The female lead having a male best friend is one thing, but a gay male best friend in a Catholic school setting takes it up a few notches. And don't think for one minute that Memphis is like every other gay man portrayed in romance novels. He isn't a stereotype. He isn't cookie cutter. There's no evidence that he loves fashion. Memphis may just be the most real out of all the different characters in this book. And I really commend the author because it was a big, bold, and beautiful choice that was executed perfectly.
Driftwood Daffodils is not your expected mafia romance in a lot of ways, but I have a feeling that this is just a warm up. It's only going to get better.
December 5, 2023
2.5 stars - slow burn / theres some sexual tension between the MC's, lacks spice, ends on Cliffhanger. Story didn't really capture my attention, I struggled to finish it.. the only spice that occurs is between the MC and another woman ( his bff's mum), in fact there are instances when the hero- finds it hard to turn down the OW advances even when he's got his eye on the Heroine. 🤷♀️ so yeah, big turn off.
I did like the stalker aspect of the story, and the Heroines wit and banter with her bff.
I don't think I'm invested enough to read the follow up book.
I did like the stalker aspect of the story, and the Heroines wit and banter with her bff.
I don't think I'm invested enough to read the follow up book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 22, 2023
Book one in TL Hodels new series and I was glued to my screen.
Straight off, the characters had me intrigued and declaring Novalee as my new best friend - I absolutely love that girl!
Now, I have to admit - Nova's mind is one of the most chaotic places ever! EVER. That girls thoughts are so scattered and random, they just don't make sense, so much so, that she makes sense!? How does that work??
She made me snort with laughter, her wit is just so on point, her 'glass near empty' attitude and her protectiveness over her family made me proud of her.
Then we have Gio, he's the youngest of the most powerful and dangerous families in town, and he and his two twisted best mates rule the school where Nova has just gotten a scholarship and he hates her - or does he hate that he wants her? Or possibly he hates that he doesn't hate her!
He doesn't know yet, or maybe he does and he just doesn't want to admit it 😏
These two may be enemies but they have chemistry, and there is a pull between them. They are complete and utter opposites, I'm looking forward to seeing them spend more time together!
There are secrets here and I have a feeling when they come to light, certain people are going to look at things very differently - I can't wait!!
Sarcasm and dry-wit in buckets, intriguing characters, a storyline that grabs you, mystery that has you guessing and that touch of twisted evil to keep you hanging - definitely recommend this 🤗
*I voluntarily received an arc and this is my honest review
Straight off, the characters had me intrigued and declaring Novalee as my new best friend - I absolutely love that girl!
Now, I have to admit - Nova's mind is one of the most chaotic places ever! EVER. That girls thoughts are so scattered and random, they just don't make sense, so much so, that she makes sense!? How does that work??
She made me snort with laughter, her wit is just so on point, her 'glass near empty' attitude and her protectiveness over her family made me proud of her.
Then we have Gio, he's the youngest of the most powerful and dangerous families in town, and he and his two twisted best mates rule the school where Nova has just gotten a scholarship and he hates her - or does he hate that he wants her? Or possibly he hates that he doesn't hate her!
He doesn't know yet, or maybe he does and he just doesn't want to admit it 😏
These two may be enemies but they have chemistry, and there is a pull between them. They are complete and utter opposites, I'm looking forward to seeing them spend more time together!
There are secrets here and I have a feeling when they come to light, certain people are going to look at things very differently - I can't wait!!
Sarcasm and dry-wit in buckets, intriguing characters, a storyline that grabs you, mystery that has you guessing and that touch of twisted evil to keep you hanging - definitely recommend this 🤗
*I voluntarily received an arc and this is my honest review
dnf
December 7, 2023This is a soft DNF @ 60%
I realized that we were over half way and we’d barely scratched the surface of any kind of romance progress with the MCs and we still seemed to be shaping the plot and not moving forward… so I checked reviews and found out it ends in a cliffy 😐😐😩
So, I’ll be putting this aside until the author has finished her story: I really like the characters so far 🤷🏼♀️ This book has a lot in common with one of my favorites, Nero by Sara Brianne. … but kinda the bizarro land version. 🤣
I realized that we were over half way and we’d barely scratched the surface of any kind of romance progress with the MCs and we still seemed to be shaping the plot and not moving forward… so I checked reviews and found out it ends in a cliffy 😐😐😩
So, I’ll be putting this aside until the author has finished her story: I really like the characters so far 🤷🏼♀️ This book has a lot in common with one of my favorites, Nero by Sara Brianne. … but kinda the bizarro land version. 🤣
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 12, 2024
Entertaining
I enjoyed reading this first book of NovaLee & Gio. You get to see almost behind the scenes of a Mafia third soon & an enemy. NovaLee is very much a non existent teenager who doesn't pay attention to any of her surroundings, but lives her brother enough to do whatever it takes. Gio wants to take the sacred path of the Mafia but his father is refusing. Makes you think of the whole death of his brother was almost a set up to begin with. What's the real reason his father wants this union?
I enjoyed reading this first book of NovaLee & Gio. You get to see almost behind the scenes of a Mafia third soon & an enemy. NovaLee is very much a non existent teenager who doesn't pay attention to any of her surroundings, but lives her brother enough to do whatever it takes. Gio wants to take the sacred path of the Mafia but his father is refusing. Makes you think of the whole death of his brother was almost a set up to begin with. What's the real reason his father wants this union?
December 4, 2023
very slow burn, a LOT of inner monologue - I had to skip so many pages because of it, the book is pretty long but not much is actually happening :/
I was expecting way more, seeing so many good reviews here..
I was expecting way more, seeing so many good reviews here..
July 18, 2025
Enemy to lovers meets mafia meets thriller. 🤯🤯🤯
This book is not what I expected. At. All. But I looooved it!!! Poor Nova thinks that her brother killed one of the mafias sons cause he 🍇d his sister but I have doubts…. Now Nova has to protect her sister and brother by making a deal with one of the mob bros. 😮💨
This is the first in a trilogy and ends on somewhat of a cliffhanger. I can’t wait until they really get into the deal…. IYKYK. 🥵 stay tuned.
This book is not what I expected. At. All. But I looooved it!!! Poor Nova thinks that her brother killed one of the mafias sons cause he 🍇d his sister but I have doubts…. Now Nova has to protect her sister and brother by making a deal with one of the mob bros. 😮💨
This is the first in a trilogy and ends on somewhat of a cliffhanger. I can’t wait until they really get into the deal…. IYKYK. 🥵 stay tuned.
January 5, 2025
Highly recommend for a fun, fast-paced, spicy mafia read!
December 9, 2023
TAKE ALL THE STARS. ALL OF EM!
I'm 100% confident in saying this is going to be my new favorite series.
Driftwood Daffodil is a Mafia, revenge, bully, darkish romance, and I am absolutely hooked.
Nova is amazing, her humor, and inner dialog are golden, and I often found myself laughing out loud. Instant girl crush.
Gio, is ruthless and wounded, and so conflicted. I just FLOVE him!
The sexual tension between the two is fire!
You're left guessing, throughout this whole book, and when you think you know, you don't. DD ends in a delicious cliffhanger, not a massive gasping cliffhanger, but the type that leaves you NEEDING book two!
Gio's friends are just as intriguing, and I have no doubt there is an incredible story there.
I'm in the edge of my seat waiting.
T.L Hodel slayed this. I cannot recommend Driftwood Daffodil enough, seriously BUY IT. READ IT! You won't regret it.
**DIBS ON DARRY**
I'm 100% confident in saying this is going to be my new favorite series.
Driftwood Daffodil is a Mafia, revenge, bully, darkish romance, and I am absolutely hooked.
Nova is amazing, her humor, and inner dialog are golden, and I often found myself laughing out loud. Instant girl crush.
Gio, is ruthless and wounded, and so conflicted. I just FLOVE him!
The sexual tension between the two is fire!
You're left guessing, throughout this whole book, and when you think you know, you don't. DD ends in a delicious cliffhanger, not a massive gasping cliffhanger, but the type that leaves you NEEDING book two!
Gio's friends are just as intriguing, and I have no doubt there is an incredible story there.
I'm in the edge of my seat waiting.
T.L Hodel slayed this. I cannot recommend Driftwood Daffodil enough, seriously BUY IT. READ IT! You won't regret it.
**DIBS ON DARRY**
January 10, 2024
⚜️Bülly
⚜️Enemies to lovers
⚜️Mafia
⚜️V!rgin h
TL Hodel, writing Mafia? I am here for it. These characters were amazing! The plot was so well done and I loved the twists that kept coming. Every time I thought things were settling down something backfired and had me turning pages to see what happened next!
Novalee was amazing. HILARIOUS, strong, unique, caring and so fun to read. She doesn’t back down from anyone and isn’t above tormenting the neighborhood kids who totally had it coming. She’s doing all she can to hold her fractured family together and that includes going toe to toe with the Mafia family that destroyed her own.
Enter Gio. His family has it out for Novalee’s and he is set on revenge. His primary target? Novalee. He doesn’t hold back, take it easy, or hide his hatred in the slightest. This book was enemies to lovers done to perfection with the banter and sexúa| tension building with every chapter.
I need the next book asap! Can’t wait to see what this author has in store for these characters.
⚜️Enemies to lovers
⚜️Mafia
⚜️V!rgin h
TL Hodel, writing Mafia? I am here for it. These characters were amazing! The plot was so well done and I loved the twists that kept coming. Every time I thought things were settling down something backfired and had me turning pages to see what happened next!
Novalee was amazing. HILARIOUS, strong, unique, caring and so fun to read. She doesn’t back down from anyone and isn’t above tormenting the neighborhood kids who totally had it coming. She’s doing all she can to hold her fractured family together and that includes going toe to toe with the Mafia family that destroyed her own.
Enter Gio. His family has it out for Novalee’s and he is set on revenge. His primary target? Novalee. He doesn’t hold back, take it easy, or hide his hatred in the slightest. This book was enemies to lovers done to perfection with the banter and sexúa| tension building with every chapter.
I need the next book asap! Can’t wait to see what this author has in store for these characters.
February 14, 2024
OMG…this “dark” mafia book is the funniest bully book I’ve ever fucking read! The dialogue on this thing had me laughing so fucking much it was ridiculous🤣 I obviously loved Nova and I liked most of the other characters as well. The ending was an obviously crazy cliffy that got my head spinning and then…oh pissed! See, I usually double check ahead of reading a book to make sure it is a standalone or if not I just put on my to read shelf if I have to wait for the next books. Why?!….because I have exactly zero patience. I stupidly just found something instead that said it was released 1/2024. I foolishly took it as is and was like ok it’s out….well fuck that it’s 2/14/2024 and it’s still not out…damnit now I have to waaaaait and now I will hate everything until it’s released, sooooo fucking release it already!!!! 😈😬
November 26, 2023
KC Rating: 4🍁 |
This was my first book by Tara Hodel, and if this is her usual writing style, i’m hooked! I was laughing way too much, and Nova was just perfect! Her no shits given attitude was actually refreshing, and i was honestly enjoying her craziness!
Was this a slow burn? Yes! Do i hate slow burns? Depends, and here i didn’t mind it, because the suspense and mystery behind Veda’s (Nova’s sister) choices and Mancini’s movements is something i want to uncover! Do i have some out of this world weird theories? Yes, and i really want to know the whole story!
Get ready for a sassy FMC and a stubborn MMC hell bent on revenge. Will those two even fall in love? Or are they doomed to hate each other?
This was my first book by Tara Hodel, and if this is her usual writing style, i’m hooked! I was laughing way too much, and Nova was just perfect! Her no shits given attitude was actually refreshing, and i was honestly enjoying her craziness!
Was this a slow burn? Yes! Do i hate slow burns? Depends, and here i didn’t mind it, because the suspense and mystery behind Veda’s (Nova’s sister) choices and Mancini’s movements is something i want to uncover! Do i have some out of this world weird theories? Yes, and i really want to know the whole story!
Get ready for a sassy FMC and a stubborn MMC hell bent on revenge. Will those two even fall in love? Or are they doomed to hate each other?
March 12, 2024
This could have been amazing, but both characters were so childish which made it hard to read. Nova was likeable but she was too immature for anything, and Gio was seeking daddy's approval so much, that I couldn't see him being part of the mafia at all. Both needed some growing up to do before a book was done for them. The ending was a nice little cliffy that makes you wonder what was done but due to their personalities I don't see myself reading the next one.
March 2, 2025
FMC is just way too much. It's like she was modeled out of a "quirky" handbook but times 100. Also, if something like that happened to my sister, then I'd at least be alert of my surroundings and would try to be a dependable person. She just screamed immature to me tbh.
I have nothing to say about the MMC except for 😒😒
Bored me out of my mind, but I did like Memphis. I only finished the book for Atlee.
I have nothing to say about the MMC except for 😒😒
Bored me out of my mind, but I did like Memphis. I only finished the book for Atlee.
December 3, 2023
I have thoroughly enjoyed Tara's Order of Ravens and Wolves series, and LOVED Twisted Abel so when this came up, I knew I'd love this too!
There's a different vibe around this book, and I love how it was written. Nova is such a unique character. She's so chaotic in her thoughts and she's full of witty sarcasm. Her relationship with Memphis is a good one, after everything that's happened to her family, it seems like she's closest to him.
Gio and his friends, feed off of others' fear, Atlee especially finds joy in inflicting pain on others. They're still boys , but in the world they've grown up in, they've aged a lot quicker than their 18 years.
Giovanni hates Nova for what her brother did and he will do anything to destroy Nova. Despite her dark humour and her pessimism, Nova is a force of nature. She's the type not to show fear, while she's trembling inside. I actually quite admired her with how she handled everything that happened. She's grown up incredibly quickly after what happened to her sister, then her brother because of that. She's fiercely loyal and while she handles anything done to her, she won't tolerate her family being hurt. Giovanni is a character that I feel will have a lot of growth through this duet. In the beginning, he's incredibly angry, angry at how he gets treated, angry at being groomed and taken advantage of, angry at himself for letting it continue and angry at losing his brother. When he starts bullying Nova, there's a turning point early on that makes him sit up and take notice. He needs to understand why, which is where i believe his feelings start, not that this is verbalised or even hinted at, just my own observation.
This is written so well, that you find it hard to put down. It's full of sarcasm and dark humour and it's like I can see everything playing out like a movie. I absolutely love the banter between Gio and his boys, you can almost imagine them acting this way in reality.
While this story primarily focuses on Gio getting revenge for what happened to his brother, there's also a few side plots as well. There are small things here and there that have you thinking about who is hiding what.
Whilst I do like the tension between Nova and Gio, it is a very slow burn. This book centres more on what's actually happened and the story build up. It really has been a fantastic read, and I cannot wait to get my hands on book 2 and see where this goes!
Thank you and we'll done!
There's a different vibe around this book, and I love how it was written. Nova is such a unique character. She's so chaotic in her thoughts and she's full of witty sarcasm. Her relationship with Memphis is a good one, after everything that's happened to her family, it seems like she's closest to him.
Gio and his friends, feed off of others' fear, Atlee especially finds joy in inflicting pain on others. They're still boys , but in the world they've grown up in, they've aged a lot quicker than their 18 years.
Giovanni hates Nova for what her brother did and he will do anything to destroy Nova. Despite her dark humour and her pessimism, Nova is a force of nature. She's the type not to show fear, while she's trembling inside. I actually quite admired her with how she handled everything that happened. She's grown up incredibly quickly after what happened to her sister, then her brother because of that. She's fiercely loyal and while she handles anything done to her, she won't tolerate her family being hurt. Giovanni is a character that I feel will have a lot of growth through this duet. In the beginning, he's incredibly angry, angry at how he gets treated, angry at being groomed and taken advantage of, angry at himself for letting it continue and angry at losing his brother. When he starts bullying Nova, there's a turning point early on that makes him sit up and take notice. He needs to understand why, which is where i believe his feelings start, not that this is verbalised or even hinted at, just my own observation.
This is written so well, that you find it hard to put down. It's full of sarcasm and dark humour and it's like I can see everything playing out like a movie. I absolutely love the banter between Gio and his boys, you can almost imagine them acting this way in reality.
While this story primarily focuses on Gio getting revenge for what happened to his brother, there's also a few side plots as well. There are small things here and there that have you thinking about who is hiding what.
Whilst I do like the tension between Nova and Gio, it is a very slow burn. This book centres more on what's actually happened and the story build up. It really has been a fantastic read, and I cannot wait to get my hands on book 2 and see where this goes!
Thank you and we'll done!
March 5, 2024
I have thoroughly enjoyed Tara's Order of Ravens and Wolves series, and LOVED Twisted Abel so when this came up, I knew I'd love this too!
There's a different vibe around this book, and I love how it was written. Nova is such a unique character. She's so chaotic in her thoughts and she's full of witty sarcasm. Her relationship with Memphis is a good one, after everything that's happened to her family, it seems like she's closest to him.
Gio and his friends, feed off of others' fear, Atlee especially finds joy in inflicting pain on others. They're still boys , but in the world they've grown up in, they've aged a lot quicker than their 18 years.
Giovanni hates Nova for what her brother did and he will do anything to destroy Nova. Despite her dark humour and her pessimism, Nova is a force of nature. She's the type not to show fear, while she's trembling inside. I actually quite admired her with how she handled everything that happened. She's grown up incredibly quickly after what happened to her sister, then her brother because of that. She's fiercely loyal and while she handles anything done to her, she won't tolerate her family being hurt. Giovanni is a character that I feel will have a lot of growth through this duet. In the beginning, he's incredibly angry, angry at how he gets treated, angry at being groomed and taken advantage of, angry at himself for letting it continue and angry at losing his brother. When he starts bullying Nova, there's a turning point early on that makes him sit up and take notice. He needs to understand why, which is where i believe his feelings start, not that this is verbalised or even hinted at, just my own observation.
This is written so well, that you find it hard to put down. It's full of sarcasm and dark humour and it's like I can see everything playing out like a movie. I absolutely love the banter between Gio and his boys, you can almost imagine them acting this way in reality.
While this story primarily focuses on Gio getting revenge for what happened to his brother, there's also a few side plots as well. There are small things here and there that have you thinking about who is hiding what.
Whilst I do like the tension between Nova and Gio, it is a very slow burn. This book centres more on what's actually happened and the story build up. It really has been a fantastic read, and I cannot wait to get my hands on book 2 and see where this goes!
Thank you and we'll done!
There's a different vibe around this book, and I love how it was written. Nova is such a unique character. She's so chaotic in her thoughts and she's full of witty sarcasm. Her relationship with Memphis is a good one, after everything that's happened to her family, it seems like she's closest to him.
Gio and his friends, feed off of others' fear, Atlee especially finds joy in inflicting pain on others. They're still boys , but in the world they've grown up in, they've aged a lot quicker than their 18 years.
Giovanni hates Nova for what her brother did and he will do anything to destroy Nova. Despite her dark humour and her pessimism, Nova is a force of nature. She's the type not to show fear, while she's trembling inside. I actually quite admired her with how she handled everything that happened. She's grown up incredibly quickly after what happened to her sister, then her brother because of that. She's fiercely loyal and while she handles anything done to her, she won't tolerate her family being hurt. Giovanni is a character that I feel will have a lot of growth through this duet. In the beginning, he's incredibly angry, angry at how he gets treated, angry at being groomed and taken advantage of, angry at himself for letting it continue and angry at losing his brother. When he starts bullying Nova, there's a turning point early on that makes him sit up and take notice. He needs to understand why, which is where i believe his feelings start, not that this is verbalised or even hinted at, just my own observation.
This is written so well, that you find it hard to put down. It's full of sarcasm and dark humour and it's like I can see everything playing out like a movie. I absolutely love the banter between Gio and his boys, you can almost imagine them acting this way in reality.
While this story primarily focuses on Gio getting revenge for what happened to his brother, there's also a few side plots as well. There are small things here and there that have you thinking about who is hiding what.
Whilst I do like the tension between Nova and Gio, it is a very slow burn. This book centres more on what's actually happened and the story build up. It really has been a fantastic read, and I cannot wait to get my hands on book 2 and see where this goes!
Thank you and we'll done!
December 7, 2023
This story pulled me from page one and did not let me go until the very end. The characters are fantastic, the attention to detail is phenomenal, and of course, there’s a little mystery. Tara’s books always have some mystery or plot twist to figure out which is why I keep coming back.
This story focuses on two families, who absolutely despise each other, and for good reason. Nova is the youngest sibling in her family, she’s feisty, mouthy, stubborn, and very odd to say the least. She’s come to expect nothing out of life therefore when the unexpected happens she’s very suspicious. She loves her family, even though they’ll all say she’s a pain in their sides.
Gio is also the youngest in his family, he’s arrogant, stubborn, controlling, and determined to prove his worth to his family but more importantly, his father. He likes to be in control and know what’s going on, so when Nova shows up at his school unexpectedly, he’s surprised and determined to make her leave. She doesn’t agree and confuses him by not doing what he tells her to do.
They bump heads repeatedly, which is unsurprising considering Gio is following her. He’s relentless in his effort to figure her out. While following her, he notices other things about her, things that he doesn’t hate even though he should.
Nova can’t figure out why Gio is suddenly interested in following her and keeps an eye on him and his friends while also avoiding them. But apparently, no one seems to know how to be stealthy so Gio is openly stalking her and she’s clearly onto them.
I laughed quite a bit at their crazy antics and pretty much any time Nova said anything. She has no filter and doesn’t know when to stop talking which gets her into quite a bit of trouble with everyone. The last time she opened her mouth was to make a deal, one that can’t be broken, one that she may wished she hadn’t asked for.
What an amazing first book for this new series! I can’t wait for the next one and can only hope many more will follow.
This story focuses on two families, who absolutely despise each other, and for good reason. Nova is the youngest sibling in her family, she’s feisty, mouthy, stubborn, and very odd to say the least. She’s come to expect nothing out of life therefore when the unexpected happens she’s very suspicious. She loves her family, even though they’ll all say she’s a pain in their sides.
Gio is also the youngest in his family, he’s arrogant, stubborn, controlling, and determined to prove his worth to his family but more importantly, his father. He likes to be in control and know what’s going on, so when Nova shows up at his school unexpectedly, he’s surprised and determined to make her leave. She doesn’t agree and confuses him by not doing what he tells her to do.
They bump heads repeatedly, which is unsurprising considering Gio is following her. He’s relentless in his effort to figure her out. While following her, he notices other things about her, things that he doesn’t hate even though he should.
Nova can’t figure out why Gio is suddenly interested in following her and keeps an eye on him and his friends while also avoiding them. But apparently, no one seems to know how to be stealthy so Gio is openly stalking her and she’s clearly onto them.
I laughed quite a bit at their crazy antics and pretty much any time Nova said anything. She has no filter and doesn’t know when to stop talking which gets her into quite a bit of trouble with everyone. The last time she opened her mouth was to make a deal, one that can’t be broken, one that she may wished she hadn’t asked for.
What an amazing first book for this new series! I can’t wait for the next one and can only hope many more will follow.
November 25, 2023
New series from TL Hodel, and I'm hooked. I started it and did not want to put it down. There are some dark themed elements in this book, so please make sure that you read your trigger warnings.
Novalee is trying to just get by. Her whole world was ripped apart when her brother, Kato, is sent to prison for the unaliving of a man suspected in harming their sister, Veda. The three of them were so close and now Kato is gone and Veda is a shell of who she use to be. However, Nova does her best friend Memphis.
Gio's life changed when he lost his older brother, Atlas. His brother taught him more than anyone and took care of him. Now he's a bit older and the life his family lives has hardened him. He and his two best friends (Atlee and Darry) are working to be a part of the Society. Gio's determined to get revenge for his brother and willing to do whatever necessary to ensure that Kato pays his life debt.
Novalee, now living with her grandmother, gets transferred out of her public school to the private school that Memphis attends. What she didn't expect was to come face to face with the brother of the man her brother unalived. Gio is livid. And he intends to take his frustration out on Nova, but she just doesn't care. Nova's sassy comebacks and her view on things was absolutely fantastic. She isn't a pushover and isn't going to let Gio destroy her life. She hates him. He hates her. Lots of hate, but could there be more between these two?
I loved the witty banter that this book brought. Nova is a spitfire for sure. She doesn't want not need a man to make her happy. She is just fine. There are a lot of background characters, some of which I hope to see more of in the future books for this series. I highly recommend!
Novalee is trying to just get by. Her whole world was ripped apart when her brother, Kato, is sent to prison for the unaliving of a man suspected in harming their sister, Veda. The three of them were so close and now Kato is gone and Veda is a shell of who she use to be. However, Nova does her best friend Memphis.
Gio's life changed when he lost his older brother, Atlas. His brother taught him more than anyone and took care of him. Now he's a bit older and the life his family lives has hardened him. He and his two best friends (Atlee and Darry) are working to be a part of the Society. Gio's determined to get revenge for his brother and willing to do whatever necessary to ensure that Kato pays his life debt.
Novalee, now living with her grandmother, gets transferred out of her public school to the private school that Memphis attends. What she didn't expect was to come face to face with the brother of the man her brother unalived. Gio is livid. And he intends to take his frustration out on Nova, but she just doesn't care. Nova's sassy comebacks and her view on things was absolutely fantastic. She isn't a pushover and isn't going to let Gio destroy her life. She hates him. He hates her. Lots of hate, but could there be more between these two?
I loved the witty banter that this book brought. Nova is a spitfire for sure. She doesn't want not need a man to make her happy. She is just fine. There are a lot of background characters, some of which I hope to see more of in the future books for this series. I highly recommend!
September 21, 2025
Giovanni Mancini and Novalee Ford are out of this world, smokin' hot, on fire. The steam building tension in the dynamic between these two is unbelievable, full of confused feelings about awakening desires in a true enemies-to-lovers, slow-burning, dark high school romance. Their history sets the intensity at a level of over the top 10. True enemies to lovers, Gio and Nova can't stand each other due to past actions involving their siblings, and it carries over into their instant hatred for each other. This strong emotion is evident in the banter and snark exchanged between the two main characters throughout the entire book, right up until the last page. Neither can decide whether it's lust or hate that fuels their interactions. Gio has the experience where Nova has shied away from any physical contact with the opposite gender, thanks to what happened to her sister. Novalee doesn't back down, standing toe to toe with Gio. She's fiercely protective of those she loves, including her nephew. Gio is the king of the school, full of himself, taking charge. He's also bossy and pushy with his friends, who stumble along behind him, no questions asked, considering the questionable family business they are all involved in.
The conclusion of Driftwood Daffodil is a nail-biting cliffhanger that left me on the edge of my seat, eagerly awaiting the next installment. The burning question, 'Will they or won't they?', lingers in the air, adding to the suspense and anticipation.
The conclusion of Driftwood Daffodil is a nail-biting cliffhanger that left me on the edge of my seat, eagerly awaiting the next installment. The burning question, 'Will they or won't they?', lingers in the air, adding to the suspense and anticipation.
January 7, 2024
I love all of T.L Hodel's books, but there's something about the way she writes bu||y/enemies to lovers that just gets me 🤩. She knows how to deliver on the delicious tension with this trope, and this book is no exception.
Novalee Ford h4tes everything to do with the Mancini's. After all, they're the reason her sister is so br0ken and her brother is in prison. Disgusted by the power they hold and how they were able to buy their "justice", Novalee would love nothing more than to see the Mancini family brought down.
After his brother's d€ath, Gio Mancini has despised the Ford family, and has made it his mission to make her family suffer, especially her brother Kato. And what better way to hürt Kato, then through his sister, Novalee. And when Novalee is practically handed to him on a silver platter when she shows up as the new girl at school, he is more than happy to "rise to the occasion" 😈. Despite his anger and quest for vengeance, he can't deny how good she feels beneath him when's his p!nning her down, or how sweet she tastes when he's kissing her while doing it. Always drawn to the darker side of s€x, (and despite Nova inexperience) it's clear he's met his match in more ways than one 😈🔥.
Novalee is truly something else. Relatable and humorously endearing in such an unexpected way that I couldn't help but love her for it. Even when she knew the best course of action was to not act, she couldn't help but do it anyway...which repeatedly landed her in hot water with Gio. And Gio was more than happy to remind her who's really in charge 😈. She may h4te Gio, but she can't deny her body wants him.
The chemistry and s3xual tension woven in between their shared h4te and banter is pure perfection! I am counting down the days until book 2 comes out.
Novalee Ford h4tes everything to do with the Mancini's. After all, they're the reason her sister is so br0ken and her brother is in prison. Disgusted by the power they hold and how they were able to buy their "justice", Novalee would love nothing more than to see the Mancini family brought down.
After his brother's d€ath, Gio Mancini has despised the Ford family, and has made it his mission to make her family suffer, especially her brother Kato. And what better way to hürt Kato, then through his sister, Novalee. And when Novalee is practically handed to him on a silver platter when she shows up as the new girl at school, he is more than happy to "rise to the occasion" 😈. Despite his anger and quest for vengeance, he can't deny how good she feels beneath him when's his p!nning her down, or how sweet she tastes when he's kissing her while doing it. Always drawn to the darker side of s€x, (and despite Nova inexperience) it's clear he's met his match in more ways than one 😈🔥.
Novalee is truly something else. Relatable and humorously endearing in such an unexpected way that I couldn't help but love her for it. Even when she knew the best course of action was to not act, she couldn't help but do it anyway...which repeatedly landed her in hot water with Gio. And Gio was more than happy to remind her who's really in charge 😈. She may h4te Gio, but she can't deny her body wants him.
The chemistry and s3xual tension woven in between their shared h4te and banter is pure perfection! I am counting down the days until book 2 comes out.
January 8, 2024
A MUST READ!!
OMG, where to begin with this one..let's start with this book was so much more than I expected in the best of ways!!
I have been a huge fan of this author for a while now and this is now my favorite book of hers. I loved Novalee she was the best FMC I have read in a long time. Her craziness called to me and I think I laughed way too much with this one. Yes, it has dark themes but the humor in this one was a nice surprise.
You can expect a sarcastic loner in the form of Novalee but she has a huge heart for her family so she's willing to make a deal with the spawn of Satan known as Gio. Gio is dark and broody with the need to prove himself to his father and brother that he's ready to join the family business now at eighteen years old. He craves pain and justice for his lost brother so Nova becomes the object of his new obsession.
Get ready to be completely consumed by this book and need book 2 ASAP! Yes, there is bullying, dark themes, and deranged and twisted characters, but also some lighter moments that keep this a page turner. Highly recommend this book for anyone who loves a twisted storyline with amazing characters both main and side with a splash of mafia/bullying to keep you on your toes. Definitely can't wait for more of these characters!
Overall: 5/☆☆☆☆☆+
Spice: 🌶🌶+
OMG, where to begin with this one..let's start with this book was so much more than I expected in the best of ways!!
I have been a huge fan of this author for a while now and this is now my favorite book of hers. I loved Novalee she was the best FMC I have read in a long time. Her craziness called to me and I think I laughed way too much with this one. Yes, it has dark themes but the humor in this one was a nice surprise.
You can expect a sarcastic loner in the form of Novalee but she has a huge heart for her family so she's willing to make a deal with the spawn of Satan known as Gio. Gio is dark and broody with the need to prove himself to his father and brother that he's ready to join the family business now at eighteen years old. He craves pain and justice for his lost brother so Nova becomes the object of his new obsession.
Get ready to be completely consumed by this book and need book 2 ASAP! Yes, there is bullying, dark themes, and deranged and twisted characters, but also some lighter moments that keep this a page turner. Highly recommend this book for anyone who loves a twisted storyline with amazing characters both main and side with a splash of mafia/bullying to keep you on your toes. Definitely can't wait for more of these characters!
Overall: 5/☆☆☆☆☆+
Spice: 🌶🌶+
February 8, 2024
5 ⭐️ Cliffy... What?!?!?!
I both LOVE and HATE TL for this freaking masterpiece!
First, I literally LAUGHED OUT LOUD through this book. Novalee Nadine Ford is a character I will NEVER forget. She will live in infamy in my 🧠. What an amazingly well written character. I am just so in love with everything that is Nova.
The cliffy, though 😭💀🤯
It is no secret that I am obsessed with TL's writing genius. I've read everything she's ever written, but the humor, sass, and sarcasm contained within these pages is chefs kiss 💋
My biggest pet peeve trope is law enforcement trying to push people into turning on a gang/mafia situation for a family members "safety" (and this may be because I am a "Tocco") but it didn't even bother me in this storyline... that's saying a lot!
The supporting characters are epic. From farting in a doctors face, to Sister Mary of the Hallway 😂🤣😂🤣, to Maw Maw and her slippers, to the trailer park Boys who are Nova's enemies (and also 7), rom Memphis (her gay bestie), etc. I just laughed my ass off through the entire story. The running "HORE" joke is delectable 🤣 with her obsession.
Please 🙏 please drop the next book quickly! I'm begging you... I need the rest of this story like I need air!
Read the book, read all her books! Nobody writes a bully romance like TL. This is the hill I'll die on 🙋♀️🤷♀️💋
I both LOVE and HATE TL for this freaking masterpiece!
First, I literally LAUGHED OUT LOUD through this book. Novalee Nadine Ford is a character I will NEVER forget. She will live in infamy in my 🧠. What an amazingly well written character. I am just so in love with everything that is Nova.
The cliffy, though 😭💀🤯
It is no secret that I am obsessed with TL's writing genius. I've read everything she's ever written, but the humor, sass, and sarcasm contained within these pages is chefs kiss 💋
My biggest pet peeve trope is law enforcement trying to push people into turning on a gang/mafia situation for a family members "safety" (and this may be because I am a "Tocco") but it didn't even bother me in this storyline... that's saying a lot!
The supporting characters are epic. From farting in a doctors face, to Sister Mary of the Hallway 😂🤣😂🤣, to Maw Maw and her slippers, to the trailer park Boys who are Nova's enemies (and also 7), rom Memphis (her gay bestie), etc. I just laughed my ass off through the entire story. The running "HORE" joke is delectable 🤣 with her obsession.
Please 🙏 please drop the next book quickly! I'm begging you... I need the rest of this story like I need air!
Read the book, read all her books! Nobody writes a bully romance like TL. This is the hill I'll die on 🙋♀️🤷♀️💋
November 30, 2023
5 Stars
Oh man, Gio and Novalee clashed like fire and ice. Since the beginning, at first glance it was like hatred penetrated between them and it was all because of what Gio's brother did to Novalee's sister and Novalee's brother was paying the price.
Once that ordeal was taken care of and school began, Novalee finds herself attending school with Gio and everything just becomes chaos between them. Novalee and Gio find themselves not only hating on each other, but also finding that they have a mutual attraction that they can't deny even though they both know it's wrong because of what each other families mean to each other.
But someone has to pay the price and Novalee is either going to have to fez up and turn herself in for her brother's life or chance her brother getting killed along with other family members.
I CANNOT wait to see what the 2nd book will bring us. What will the story entail between Novalee and Gio. Will their hatred for each other continue or will it turn to love??
I loved Novalee, she was spunky, feisty and her humor just had me rolling. She was one of those characters that just didn't care what people thought of her, she just carried on with her life, she was awesome.
Oh man, Gio and Novalee clashed like fire and ice. Since the beginning, at first glance it was like hatred penetrated between them and it was all because of what Gio's brother did to Novalee's sister and Novalee's brother was paying the price.
Once that ordeal was taken care of and school began, Novalee finds herself attending school with Gio and everything just becomes chaos between them. Novalee and Gio find themselves not only hating on each other, but also finding that they have a mutual attraction that they can't deny even though they both know it's wrong because of what each other families mean to each other.
But someone has to pay the price and Novalee is either going to have to fez up and turn herself in for her brother's life or chance her brother getting killed along with other family members.
I CANNOT wait to see what the 2nd book will bring us. What will the story entail between Novalee and Gio. Will their hatred for each other continue or will it turn to love??
I loved Novalee, she was spunky, feisty and her humor just had me rolling. She was one of those characters that just didn't care what people thought of her, she just carried on with her life, she was awesome.
November 30, 2023
Strong first book
I don’t know that there is a book that I have read by Tara that I have not loved. I absolutely adore the FMC in this book. It starts with Nova in the past and she is at court as her brother is sentenced for a crime. She meets Gio (the MMC) at court but after this interaction they do not meet again for 2 years. The story behind her brother going to jail is a big to the overall storyline. Gio and Nova meet again as she is going to his school. Gio and Nova have one another due to a past issue with their families(trying not to give away too much). Gio is the third son in a mafia family. I wanted to hate him a bit but he is being abused in a way and has his own issues that hold him back. Nova is fierce and loyal to her family. Her family comes before everything else in her world. Then her best friend. She is no afraid of confrontation and makes a good counterpart to Gio. Gio starts to use her brother in prison as a form to manipulate Nova and it ends with her possibly submitting. The cliffy wasn’t horrible but it leaves me so excited to watch their relationship to develop. Also, I cannot wait for some truths to be revealed. I feel like that last chapter was a crumb that I was missing throughout the whole book.
I don’t know that there is a book that I have read by Tara that I have not loved. I absolutely adore the FMC in this book. It starts with Nova in the past and she is at court as her brother is sentenced for a crime. She meets Gio (the MMC) at court but after this interaction they do not meet again for 2 years. The story behind her brother going to jail is a big to the overall storyline. Gio and Nova meet again as she is going to his school. Gio and Nova have one another due to a past issue with their families(trying not to give away too much). Gio is the third son in a mafia family. I wanted to hate him a bit but he is being abused in a way and has his own issues that hold him back. Nova is fierce and loyal to her family. Her family comes before everything else in her world. Then her best friend. She is no afraid of confrontation and makes a good counterpart to Gio. Gio starts to use her brother in prison as a form to manipulate Nova and it ends with her possibly submitting. The cliffy wasn’t horrible but it leaves me so excited to watch their relationship to develop. Also, I cannot wait for some truths to be revealed. I feel like that last chapter was a crumb that I was missing throughout the whole book.
November 30, 2023
ARC Review
✨Driftwood Daffodil✨
Louisiana Made Men #1
By T.L. Hodel
⭐ 4/5 ❤️ 5/5
Novalle Ford is something else
Attention here comes Novalee Ford. Handed a real sad life and now a brother in prison for retaliating against something that broke her family down so bad.
But two years later, Novalee has found her way to cope with it all. Partying hard, a loose mouth and a best friend that you would dream of having.
She is a caring sister, but numbed herself in many directions. She is witty and her life will take a turn now with her at her new school for her senior year.
Gio hates Novalee and her family. He is out to destroy her. He and his best friends rule the school she now attends, and his family is powerful in the town.
Enemies with chemistry, even if they don´t want it. It will be interesting where their journey will lead to, they are so completely opposites.
I am curious about the next book. There are secrets to be discovered that will shatter people's opinions.
Interesting storyline filled with suspense and mystery, fascinating characters and more intriguing side characters.
✨Driftwood Daffodil✨
Louisiana Made Men #1
By T.L. Hodel
⭐ 4/5 ❤️ 5/5
Novalle Ford is something else
Attention here comes Novalee Ford. Handed a real sad life and now a brother in prison for retaliating against something that broke her family down so bad.
But two years later, Novalee has found her way to cope with it all. Partying hard, a loose mouth and a best friend that you would dream of having.
She is a caring sister, but numbed herself in many directions. She is witty and her life will take a turn now with her at her new school for her senior year.
Gio hates Novalee and her family. He is out to destroy her. He and his best friends rule the school she now attends, and his family is powerful in the town.
Enemies with chemistry, even if they don´t want it. It will be interesting where their journey will lead to, they are so completely opposites.
I am curious about the next book. There are secrets to be discovered that will shatter people's opinions.
Interesting storyline filled with suspense and mystery, fascinating characters and more intriguing side characters.
November 27, 2023
Driftwood Daffodil
Book 1 by TL Hodel
It was hard to put this book down once I got started! If I didn't have to do some adulting, I'd stayed curled up reading this book til it was done! Bully Romance, enemies to lovers mafia world setting. High school setting, but with mature subject matters, it was hard to grasp the characters in high school! This book opens with the story of Novalee having to see her guardian and Big Brother go to prison for a crime he committed out of protection and justice for his sister Veda, who ended up hospitalized. The premise of the story introduces us to Novalee and Gio Mancini and the Mancini Mafia Family of Lousisiana! The question is, will Novalee sacrifice herself for the sake of her family? If this is just the beginning of the series, I can't wait for the rest of the story to unfold! ends on a crazy cliffhanger, and I can't wait for January to get here already! Love this series already! Tara, why?!?!?!
@tara hodel
Book 1 by TL Hodel
It was hard to put this book down once I got started! If I didn't have to do some adulting, I'd stayed curled up reading this book til it was done! Bully Romance, enemies to lovers mafia world setting. High school setting, but with mature subject matters, it was hard to grasp the characters in high school! This book opens with the story of Novalee having to see her guardian and Big Brother go to prison for a crime he committed out of protection and justice for his sister Veda, who ended up hospitalized. The premise of the story introduces us to Novalee and Gio Mancini and the Mancini Mafia Family of Lousisiana! The question is, will Novalee sacrifice herself for the sake of her family? If this is just the beginning of the series, I can't wait for the rest of the story to unfold! ends on a crazy cliffhanger, and I can't wait for January to get here already! Love this series already! Tara, why?!?!?!
@tara hodel
November 25, 2023
Holy crap! I loved this book! I read A LOT, so when I say Nova is my favorite MFC, it means something. She was strong, funny, didn't care what people thought, and was always true to herself. I love how she always looked out for the people she care about.
I also like Gio, the MMC. It starts out with him bullying Nova, but he starts to have other feelings about her and fights with himself about it. I don't want to give too much away. Although, I can say he needs to work on his stalking abilities 🤣
It ends on a cliffhanger. Something is happening behind the scenes with Gio's dad and brother and I can't wait to find out what it is!
If you like bully, mafia, fun witty banter, mystery, stalking, and possessive MMC then READ THIS BOOK! You will not be disappointed. Seriously, go get it!
I also like Gio, the MMC. It starts out with him bullying Nova, but he starts to have other feelings about her and fights with himself about it. I don't want to give too much away. Although, I can say he needs to work on his stalking abilities 🤣
It ends on a cliffhanger. Something is happening behind the scenes with Gio's dad and brother and I can't wait to find out what it is!
If you like bully, mafia, fun witty banter, mystery, stalking, and possessive MMC then READ THIS BOOK! You will not be disappointed. Seriously, go get it!
February 1, 2025
Driftwood Daffodils is the first book in the Louisiana Made Men series. Each book is of a different couple and this couples story takes a trilogy to finish their journey. Dark high school bully with triggers, lots of laugh out dialogue, no smut and ends on a cliffhanger.
TW: violence, profanity, tobacco and alcohol use, references to childhood trauma and loss, off page rape of sister, taboo relationship, bullying, attempted murder, throat necklace, dominate, controlling, gay relationship.
Novalee Ford is about to spend her senior year of high school in St. Agatha's private school. Her best friend will be there but so will her sisters rapist brother, Gio Mancini.
Gio Mancini despises Nova on sight because her brother killed his brother and he wants nothing more than to kill her.
Nova doesn't back down from his bullying and comes out swinging every time. She's smart mouthed and and keeps her circle small.
Gio only wants revenge and won't stop until she agrees to trade herself for her brothers punishment s.
TW: violence, profanity, tobacco and alcohol use, references to childhood trauma and loss, off page rape of sister, taboo relationship, bullying, attempted murder, throat necklace, dominate, controlling, gay relationship.
Novalee Ford is about to spend her senior year of high school in St. Agatha's private school. Her best friend will be there but so will her sisters rapist brother, Gio Mancini.
Gio Mancini despises Nova on sight because her brother killed his brother and he wants nothing more than to kill her.
Nova doesn't back down from his bullying and comes out swinging every time. She's smart mouthed and and keeps her circle small.
Gio only wants revenge and won't stop until she agrees to trade herself for her brothers punishment s.
February 23, 2025
Where do I even start?!
Seriously I have no idea where to even start describing how much I LOVE this book!
If I’m being honest I don’t think I’ve ever read anything by T. L. Hodel that I haven’t loved.
But the way that I laughed out loud so much while reading this one was amazing! I’m normally the type of reader that keeps a straight face face and none knows if I even like what I’m reading, but I giggled and legitimately laughed out loud so much that everyone around me knew I was loving it. And of course I recommended it to them!
Nova is an amazing character and I love her quick witted responses. I swear she’s my spirit animal.
I won’t give spoilers because I’m not that person, but I am saying if you’re looking at this book and see this review, then take me 100% serious when I say: YOU NEED TO READ THIS BOOK!
That is all. ❤️
Seriously I have no idea where to even start describing how much I LOVE this book!
If I’m being honest I don’t think I’ve ever read anything by T. L. Hodel that I haven’t loved.
But the way that I laughed out loud so much while reading this one was amazing! I’m normally the type of reader that keeps a straight face face and none knows if I even like what I’m reading, but I giggled and legitimately laughed out loud so much that everyone around me knew I was loving it. And of course I recommended it to them!
Nova is an amazing character and I love her quick witted responses. I swear she’s my spirit animal.
I won’t give spoilers because I’m not that person, but I am saying if you’re looking at this book and see this review, then take me 100% serious when I say: YOU NEED TO READ THIS BOOK!
That is all. ❤️
November 25, 2023
Nova and Gio are the perfect mix of oil and water, both beautiful but combustible. Their feelings (which is not in a good way) shines through each page of the book, taking enemies to lovers to the next level.
Novalee has just now became one of my FMC. Even though she is a hot mess, she is probably one of the most relatable characters I have read to date. Her and best friend Memphis have also given me friendship goals.When Nova starts school with Gio, the baby brother of the guy that changed both families lives, it is like a series of explosives being set off and it was fire!
Knowing that this is the first book of a series, I will be adding every one of these books as they come out, because I'm totally invested in these characters.
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