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The Shore #1
Giving In
Raphael Cruz doesn't do it. He just doesn't. Cruz doesn't fall in love. He's a "get in and get out" kind of guy. Ladies love him and fall all over him for his swoon worthy good looks and overwhelming sex appeal. He knows how to talk to them and tells them exactly what they want to hear. When he's done making them scream his name, he shows them straight to the door. The meaning of the word love doesn't exist in his world. But that could all change with a wink of a girl's eye... And one hot-as-hell romp in a bar bathroom.
Harlow Hannum is your typical girl-next-door. She has the brains, the beauty, and the money. What she doesn't have is the luxury of being someone's first choice in the game of love. She always comes in a distant second place, leaving her guarded with her feelings. Lies, betrayal, and secrets of her past follow her wherever she goes, no matter how hard she tries to hide them. That is until she's reunited with the one guy who can ignite the spark in her heart that's been extinguished for so long.
With sunny days, heated nights, and love lingering in the air in the beach town of Sandy Cove anything can happen. Especially when fate steps in for Harlow and Cruz. Will their blossoming friendship turn into unexpected love or will the collision of their opposing worlds be the end of what could have been?
Harlow Hannum is your typical girl-next-door. She has the brains, the beauty, and the money. What she doesn't have is the luxury of being someone's first choice in the game of love. She always comes in a distant second place, leaving her guarded with her feelings. Lies, betrayal, and secrets of her past follow her wherever she goes, no matter how hard she tries to hide them. That is until she's reunited with the one guy who can ignite the spark in her heart that's been extinguished for so long.
With sunny days, heated nights, and love lingering in the air in the beach town of Sandy Cove anything can happen. Especially when fate steps in for Harlow and Cruz. Will their blossoming friendship turn into unexpected love or will the collision of their opposing worlds be the end of what could have been?
Kindle Edition
First published March 1, 2014
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1041 people want to read
About the author
M.R. Joseph
12 books284 followersM.R. Joseph is a bestselling author of contemporary romance, new adult, and rom-com novels. A self-proclaimed book nerd turned writer, she crafts heartfelt, funny, and romantic stories that readers can’t get enough of. Hailing from the City of Brotherly Love, she draws inspiration from the world around her, including music and moments shared with her husband, kids, friends, and her dog, Scarlet. When she’s not writing, you’ll find her unwinding in her magical backyard or soaking up the sun on a East Coast beach, surrounded by family and music. A lover of books, laughter, and life’s little joys, she pours all of that magic into every story she tells.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
nope
February 1, 2020Thanks to my friend Sanzida, I am avoiding another annoying and frustrating book.
He meets the girl of his dreams again but that night he has sex with another girl. And what is even worse is that the heroine watches him with her friends while he is having sex with that girl.
He meets the girl of his dreams again but that night he has sex with another girl. And what is even worse is that the heroine watches him with her friends while he is having sex with that girl.
April 20, 2014
4.5 stars!
At the end of the book I was like this
It was a really great read, the book was funny, hot and heartbreaking at the end ...
Love is the only thing I think you can't fake, no matter what. It's when you look into the eyes of the person meant for you, and you can see into their soul. I'm pretty sure you can't lie when you truly look into the depths of them. There's a resemblance there, a home, somewhere you can put your trust into, someone you can tell your deepest, darkest fears to, and no matter their opinion of them, it really has no bearing. They will be beside you. They will watch you succeed, and they will watch you fail, but the love is so strong, they will see past it. See past all the bad and take the good ... A good hard look at the good.
But I hate the cliffhanger ... ccc
I want to know what will happen next!!! I hope I will not have to wait too long for the sequel ...
At the end of the book I was like this
It was a really great read, the book was funny, hot and heartbreaking at the end ...
Love is the only thing I think you can't fake, no matter what. It's when you look into the eyes of the person meant for you, and you can see into their soul. I'm pretty sure you can't lie when you truly look into the depths of them. There's a resemblance there, a home, somewhere you can put your trust into, someone you can tell your deepest, darkest fears to, and no matter their opinion of them, it really has no bearing. They will be beside you. They will watch you succeed, and they will watch you fail, but the love is so strong, they will see past it. See past all the bad and take the good ... A good hard look at the good.
But I hate the cliffhanger ... ccc
I want to know what will happen next!!! I hope I will not have to wait too long for the sequel ...
February 7, 2014
Oil and vinegar... Black and white... Mild and spicy... get my drift? Harlow and Cruz... opposite sides of the proverbial "tracks". He is a man-whore and is proud of it. She has had one lover and is going through a particularly difficult time after their break-up.
A chance encounter at a bar; Harlow wants to show her ex she has moved on after seeing him kissing a new conquest; Cruz is drunk; Harlow is drunk; there is a handy ladies' room and the rest is a mind-bogglin' sex encounter never to be forgotten.
A year passes and Harlow and Cruz are thrown together again. What started as a lusty encounter evolves into a friendship with a promise for more. This is not easy... they banter and fight like the best of them. They are so different!
I loved this book. It reminded me of my college years and the love/hate relationship I had with some of the boys who eventually became my best friends. Sometimes the chemistry works in a fierce way and makes such a reaction in you that you fight it and the person making you feel this unusual passion/fury inside you. You fight this unknown force by busting his b*lls every time you can. What appears to be banter is really foreplay. Neither of you wanting to admit the attraction and need to meet in the middle.
This story is not without pain. As Harlow and Cruz mature both in their thinking and their relationship, life throws some heavy duty obstacles their way. Please be forewarned... this story ends in a cliffhanger ...to be continued. It is my hope that M.R. Joseph will not make us wait too long for Book #2 in this series. I need to know what happens next!!!
A chance encounter at a bar; Harlow wants to show her ex she has moved on after seeing him kissing a new conquest; Cruz is drunk; Harlow is drunk; there is a handy ladies' room and the rest is a mind-bogglin' sex encounter never to be forgotten.
A year passes and Harlow and Cruz are thrown together again. What started as a lusty encounter evolves into a friendship with a promise for more. This is not easy... they banter and fight like the best of them. They are so different!
I loved this book. It reminded me of my college years and the love/hate relationship I had with some of the boys who eventually became my best friends. Sometimes the chemistry works in a fierce way and makes such a reaction in you that you fight it and the person making you feel this unusual passion/fury inside you. You fight this unknown force by busting his b*lls every time you can. What appears to be banter is really foreplay. Neither of you wanting to admit the attraction and need to meet in the middle.
This story is not without pain. As Harlow and Cruz mature both in their thinking and their relationship, life throws some heavy duty obstacles their way. Please be forewarned... this story ends in a cliffhanger ...to be continued. It is my hope that M.R. Joseph will not make us wait too long for Book #2 in this series. I need to know what happens next!!!
July 7, 2014
I hate when I forget to come back and write a review (sorry). This story really started out with a bang, holy hotness!! I loved all the banter and sexual tension with Harlow and Cruz. It was a great story and sucked me. A huge emotional rollercoaster with lots of twists and turns... I will say that there is a HUGE cliffhanger but book two is now available so you don't have to wait. Check it out.
April 6, 2014
I love a book that starts out light and funny with a lot of side-clenching laughs and then does a complete turn around and has me wiping my eyes because of heartbreak.
Giving In’s prologue is hilarious. Cruz and Harlow meet in a bar bathroom and have some great banter while having the best sex of their lives. That night leaves quite an impression on both of them, and for Cruz to admit that he can’t forget about that night really means something as Cruz’s motto is “get in, get off, and get the f*ck out.” Harlow is usually pretty uptight but that night she let loose and let Cruz take the reins. Once it was all said and done, both of them returned to their lives never thinking for one second that their lives would cross paths again.
Cruz is from a broken home where his mother was a crack head and his father walked out on him when he a toddler. Cruz needed a sense of belonging so upon graduation from high school he enlisted in the Marines and has served three tours in Afghanistan. He is now a rent-a-cop, hoping to get on full time with the local police department. The chapters alternate between Harlow and Cruz’s points of view and it is quite enlightening and hilarious to hear Cruz’s thoughts. He doesn’t sugar coat anything… “My name is Raphael Patrick Cruz, and I am a man-whore.”
Harlow comes from an extremely wealthy family and she had been in a relationship for 4 years only to find out her controlling boyfriend had been cheating on her. She has graduated from college and is hoping to secure a teaching job to begin in the fall. She has moved to the beach with her friends for the summer to relax as the past year has been difficult for her. Little does Harlow know that her life is going to become even more difficult upon her arrival into town and every day after that (insert smirk).
Harlow and Cruz have a reunion that is one to go down in the books. At first she doesn’t recognize him, but he certainly does and he uses this to his full advantage. It isn’t until an uncomfortable position (Cruz in a chair…on the deck…in the early morning… definitely not alone) that she comes face-to-face with him again and realizes who he is. He is none other than “dickcop” and one-night stand man.
Harlow and Cruz agree to a truce after she knees him in the balls and he practically drowns her. Now they share early morning talks on the dock and have become very good friends to each other. Cruz omits facts from his life and this will come back to bite him in the butt later on. It takes a lot for Cruz to admit that he has feelings for somebody as he is used to not feeling anything towards anybody and definitely isn’t used to having to admit his feelings. Before the summer ends Cruz and Harlow will give in to their passion again and want to move forward with their feelings.
…I have to believe this will work. It has to, because if I lose her like I have lost so much in my life, this time I don’t think I’ll recover.
The last 10% of the book is where my heart was breaking…”You knew what you were getting when we started this whole thing.”
And then comes the epilogue…”I’m not a praying man, I’ve never had a lot to pray for in my life, but with Harlow, praying and hoping is all I have.”
I am sitting on pins and needles waiting for the next installment. MR Joseph is an author that needs to be placed on your list of must-read-anything-by-this-author. She has done a fine job with this novel and I hope for nothing but success for her as she completes the series.
Giving In’s prologue is hilarious. Cruz and Harlow meet in a bar bathroom and have some great banter while having the best sex of their lives. That night leaves quite an impression on both of them, and for Cruz to admit that he can’t forget about that night really means something as Cruz’s motto is “get in, get off, and get the f*ck out.” Harlow is usually pretty uptight but that night she let loose and let Cruz take the reins. Once it was all said and done, both of them returned to their lives never thinking for one second that their lives would cross paths again.
Cruz is from a broken home where his mother was a crack head and his father walked out on him when he a toddler. Cruz needed a sense of belonging so upon graduation from high school he enlisted in the Marines and has served three tours in Afghanistan. He is now a rent-a-cop, hoping to get on full time with the local police department. The chapters alternate between Harlow and Cruz’s points of view and it is quite enlightening and hilarious to hear Cruz’s thoughts. He doesn’t sugar coat anything… “My name is Raphael Patrick Cruz, and I am a man-whore.”
Harlow comes from an extremely wealthy family and she had been in a relationship for 4 years only to find out her controlling boyfriend had been cheating on her. She has graduated from college and is hoping to secure a teaching job to begin in the fall. She has moved to the beach with her friends for the summer to relax as the past year has been difficult for her. Little does Harlow know that her life is going to become even more difficult upon her arrival into town and every day after that (insert smirk).
Harlow and Cruz have a reunion that is one to go down in the books. At first she doesn’t recognize him, but he certainly does and he uses this to his full advantage. It isn’t until an uncomfortable position (Cruz in a chair…on the deck…in the early morning… definitely not alone) that she comes face-to-face with him again and realizes who he is. He is none other than “dickcop” and one-night stand man.
Harlow and Cruz agree to a truce after she knees him in the balls and he practically drowns her. Now they share early morning talks on the dock and have become very good friends to each other. Cruz omits facts from his life and this will come back to bite him in the butt later on. It takes a lot for Cruz to admit that he has feelings for somebody as he is used to not feeling anything towards anybody and definitely isn’t used to having to admit his feelings. Before the summer ends Cruz and Harlow will give in to their passion again and want to move forward with their feelings.
…I have to believe this will work. It has to, because if I lose her like I have lost so much in my life, this time I don’t think I’ll recover.
The last 10% of the book is where my heart was breaking…”You knew what you were getting when we started this whole thing.”
And then comes the epilogue…”I’m not a praying man, I’ve never had a lot to pray for in my life, but with Harlow, praying and hoping is all I have.”
I am sitting on pins and needles waiting for the next installment. MR Joseph is an author that needs to be placed on your list of must-read-anything-by-this-author. She has done a fine job with this novel and I hope for nothing but success for her as she completes the series.
February 25, 2014
ARC provided..........PROCESSING!
Oh Ms. Joseph I love and hate you right now! I've had time to digest and process my thoughts on this book and I still feel like I'm nursing a book hangover! I'm in serious need of a remedy that can only be cured with more Cruz and Harlow, like STAT please!
This book literally starts with a bang! Raphael Cruz and Harlow Hannum are complete opposites and after a rocky start to say the least, the two attempt to begin a friendship. Over the course of the summer that friendship turns to romance but it's not all smooth sailing.
This book will take you through every emotion you can think of which is how you know it's a good book! Giving In has it all, love, hurt, angst, happiness and sadness. It's truly a roller coaster of a ride that I absolutely loved. Cruz and Harlow are one of my favorite couples and I can't wait for more of this series!
P.S. - Love the cover! You look great Rosemarie :)
"Love is the only thing that you can't fake, no matter what. It's when you look into the eyes of the person meant for you, you can see into their soul. I'm pretty sure you can't lie when you truly look into the depths of them. There's a resemblance there, like home, a place where you can put your trust into. Someone you can tell your deepest, darkest fears to, and no matter their opinion of them, it doesn't matter, they will be beside you. They will watch you succeed, and they will watch you fail, but the love is so strong, they can see past it. They can see past all the bad and take a good, hard look at the good." - M.R. Jospeh
http://teahoneysbookcafe.blogspot.com/
Oh Ms. Joseph I love and hate you right now! I've had time to digest and process my thoughts on this book and I still feel like I'm nursing a book hangover! I'm in serious need of a remedy that can only be cured with more Cruz and Harlow, like STAT please!
This book literally starts with a bang! Raphael Cruz and Harlow Hannum are complete opposites and after a rocky start to say the least, the two attempt to begin a friendship. Over the course of the summer that friendship turns to romance but it's not all smooth sailing.
This book will take you through every emotion you can think of which is how you know it's a good book! Giving In has it all, love, hurt, angst, happiness and sadness. It's truly a roller coaster of a ride that I absolutely loved. Cruz and Harlow are one of my favorite couples and I can't wait for more of this series!
P.S. - Love the cover! You look great Rosemarie :)
"Love is the only thing that you can't fake, no matter what. It's when you look into the eyes of the person meant for you, you can see into their soul. I'm pretty sure you can't lie when you truly look into the depths of them. There's a resemblance there, like home, a place where you can put your trust into. Someone you can tell your deepest, darkest fears to, and no matter their opinion of them, it doesn't matter, they will be beside you. They will watch you succeed, and they will watch you fail, but the love is so strong, they can see past it. They can see past all the bad and take a good, hard look at the good." - M.R. Jospeh
http://teahoneysbookcafe.blogspot.com/
February 7, 2014
I was so excited getting this book to review thanks to all the teasers that were well teasing me! Cruz that boy is well....erm....passionate? Well anyway that's putting it kindly of what the boy is, "not anymore. My God you are the hottest girl I've ever been with, and believe me, there's been plenty, but you, Harlow, are fan-effing-tastic." Cruz his thoughts are of a typical male, "her shirt hangs off her one shoulder. Her skin shines from the lights, and it looks soft. My di** so badly wants to escape into her vertical smile, so I do my best not to look at it like it's a piece of taffy I want to lick. I silently plea to Morty; my penis. Now is not the time boy, behave, and i will get you a treat later." Harlow well she's a feisty little thing and well it was easy to fall in love with her, "I knee him in the testicles. Take that, D**kcop. Those self-defense classes I took in college just paid off. "And don't call me baby," I scream." Cruz he, worries a tad bit to much, "we had sex three times today and we didn't use condoms. How did I let this happen? Please tell me you're on the pill or something?" Well if you weren't thinking with 'Morty' as you call him you would have been all set. Cruz he likes to make sure 'Morty' is safe while in the kitchen cooking and Harlow likes to point things out, "not really, dear. An apron does not qualify as clothing. It's more of a cover up." She snakes her hands to cup my a**, and I lean my head back against her." I wasn't expecting what happened at the end, so the author needs to hurry it up and get the second book out.
April 19, 2014
This was such a nice and quick read!
I really enjoy it!
Solid 4* read!
I really enjoy it!
Solid 4* read!
March 28, 2014
OMG.... Major cliffhanger! Cruz... Tsk..tsk... I could just kick your ass ( then I'd kiss it).
March 21, 2014
Ohmygosh….. Oh. My. Gosh. I am still reeling from that ending!!!! I NEED book two…yesterday! Such a great read!!!! M.R. Joseph managed to evoke so many different emotions from me that I decided this deserved a solid 5-star rating. Don’t wait to read this! Really, don’t! Giving In is a sexy, funny, and emotional book you should not miss out on!
Opposites attract. Boy, oh boy, do they! Cruz and Harlow sure were exact opposites and yet, just what they needed. Not that they would EVER admit that out loud.
Cruz….was an asshole. Funny, but a jerk. Getting chapters in his POV allowed us to see this first hand. He was interested in living his life care-free. He wanted to enjoy things rather than fuss over them…as simple as that. When it came to the ladies he was as honest as could be. Meet ‘em, bang ‘em, and show them the door. In and out. Simple. Easy. Sometimes not even remembering their names. Well, all except for one. That one name that haunted his memories for an entire year.
Harlow Hannum was extremely guarded with very high walls around her heart. Always using big words to ‘scare off people’. At times, she even sounded a bit stuck up. But I promise you, she had her reasons…and what reasons!!!
Spending a relaxing summer at Sandy Cove didn’t turn out to be what Cruz and Harlow expected or even imagined. Suffice it to say, they got off on the wrong foot. In fact, they pretty much hated each other. They knew what buttons to push and Cruz sure knew how to rile up Harlow. THE MACARENA!!! OMG!! I laughed so hard during that scene! I would’ve died being in Harlow’s position! *Giggles* It seemed Cruz spent a lot of his time apologizing to Harlow for everything he put her through on a daily basis. His cocky attitude + her stubborn attitude = one hell of a funny banter!
Things started changing. Cruz and Harlow fell into a comfortable routine. They started to really see each other. They began to get used to their company, enjoying their moments together. Without realizing, Cruz and Harlow started to change each other…for the better.
As they morphed into a couple, they faced the sad reality of ‘what came after Sandy Cove’. Not only had they gone from being practically enemies to a new couple, but now they had to manage a long distance relationship. And what’s worse…some secrets were still kept between them. Secrets that were used against them. Drama!!!!! Loved it! Kept me turning the pages, that’s for sure!
As the final chapters approached, I seriously could not stop reading. My heart was pounding. I was so nervous and anxious of what might happen next. There was one scene specifically that RUINED ME. I was livid, floored, and flat out SPEECHLESS. I could not believe what was unfolding before me. And then… THAT ENDING!!!!! Holy Cliffhanger, Batman!!! I NEED BOOK TWO! Pronto!! Whoa! Now, even though it does end in quite a scene, I recommend you do not wait another minute to read this book. It’s fantastic!!!!
Blog Tour: http://bit.ly/1mkdjbi
Amazon: http://amzn.to/1f6O7Ba
“You made me feel things again. You made me feel whole.”
Opposites attract. Boy, oh boy, do they! Cruz and Harlow sure were exact opposites and yet, just what they needed. Not that they would EVER admit that out loud.
Cruz….was an asshole. Funny, but a jerk. Getting chapters in his POV allowed us to see this first hand. He was interested in living his life care-free. He wanted to enjoy things rather than fuss over them…as simple as that. When it came to the ladies he was as honest as could be. Meet ‘em, bang ‘em, and show them the door. In and out. Simple. Easy. Sometimes not even remembering their names. Well, all except for one. That one name that haunted his memories for an entire year.
Harlow Hannum was extremely guarded with very high walls around her heart. Always using big words to ‘scare off people’. At times, she even sounded a bit stuck up. But I promise you, she had her reasons…and what reasons!!!
Spending a relaxing summer at Sandy Cove didn’t turn out to be what Cruz and Harlow expected or even imagined. Suffice it to say, they got off on the wrong foot. In fact, they pretty much hated each other. They knew what buttons to push and Cruz sure knew how to rile up Harlow. THE MACARENA!!! OMG!! I laughed so hard during that scene! I would’ve died being in Harlow’s position! *Giggles* It seemed Cruz spent a lot of his time apologizing to Harlow for everything he put her through on a daily basis. His cocky attitude + her stubborn attitude = one hell of a funny banter!
“…the more time I spend with Cruz, the more he’s, I don’t know, what word should I use to describe him…let’s call it human?”
Things started changing. Cruz and Harlow fell into a comfortable routine. They started to really see each other. They began to get used to their company, enjoying their moments together. Without realizing, Cruz and Harlow started to change each other…for the better.
“I don’t need to be that way around Cruz. I can be me. Harlow Hannum.”
As they morphed into a couple, they faced the sad reality of ‘what came after Sandy Cove’. Not only had they gone from being practically enemies to a new couple, but now they had to manage a long distance relationship. And what’s worse…some secrets were still kept between them. Secrets that were used against them. Drama!!!!! Loved it! Kept me turning the pages, that’s for sure!
As the final chapters approached, I seriously could not stop reading. My heart was pounding. I was so nervous and anxious of what might happen next. There was one scene specifically that RUINED ME. I was livid, floored, and flat out SPEECHLESS. I could not believe what was unfolding before me. And then… THAT ENDING!!!!! Holy Cliffhanger, Batman!!! I NEED BOOK TWO! Pronto!! Whoa! Now, even though it does end in quite a scene, I recommend you do not wait another minute to read this book. It’s fantastic!!!!
“Loving someone is when you make the other person a better one.”
Blog Tour: http://bit.ly/1mkdjbi
Amazon: http://amzn.to/1f6O7Ba
April 5, 2014
This book kind of drove me crazy. I didn’t fall in love with Cruz until the end and I thought Harlow (despite loving her name) was just as stuck up as Cruz imagined her being at the beginning of the book. But the thing about this book is that I adored their story. It wasn’t a perfect book and it didn’t make me overly swoon, well except for Harlow’s brother, I kind of swooned on him a bit. But it has a great story. I thought long and hard about my star rating on this one because as much as I did enjoy the story, there were a few things that just kept throwing me off.
So here’s the thing… I was so not picturing any military man in this book at all, infact by the way he described himself, I had a hard time picturing Cruz in a uniform of any sort, let alone a military. The rent-a-cop gig, I could picture. I just pictured him more as a temporary kind of guy. One that wasn’t around long enough to make the kind of commitment that the military requires. He had the mouth of a sailor and just in general didn’t seem like a decent person. He was cocky, arrogent, rude and a man-whore. There is a difference in my mind between letting loose and being a jackass. Cruz’s character just blurred that line a little too much. Now that I have said all that, I am going to turn around and tell you that it takes a special kind of guy to own up to his mistakes and to want to try and make things better. He sees what he has done and just wants to fix it and that I completely admired about his character. There was redemption in his character and that made me smile. He character changed so drastically from the beginning of the book to the end of it. But I guess that is the point.
Then we have to look at the flip side of the coin. Though I thought Harlow was a snob in the beginning with her five-dollar words, her character grew on me more and more. She wasn’t strong, she was trying to be. She was broken on the inside from her past and was trying on her own to get better. What I liked about that is she wasn’t trying to do it with a guy or for a guy, but that guy sure did help!
I was a little surprised that the first thing you read in this book is a sex scene. I stopped and thought, ok. That’s one heck of a beginning…it was definatley attention grabbing. It wasn’t bad, but it was so unexpected to open up a book to two people going at it in a bathroom… but obviously it caught my attention and I was intrigued with where the story was going to go from there. It was a unique catch at the beginning.
I did love the alternating points of view in the book. I liked reading both perspectives of the story and I liked the overall premise of the story. Over all it was a great story, with some serious steam. I am looking forward to the next book to find out what happens to this couple or not couple…
*I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
So here’s the thing… I was so not picturing any military man in this book at all, infact by the way he described himself, I had a hard time picturing Cruz in a uniform of any sort, let alone a military. The rent-a-cop gig, I could picture. I just pictured him more as a temporary kind of guy. One that wasn’t around long enough to make the kind of commitment that the military requires. He had the mouth of a sailor and just in general didn’t seem like a decent person. He was cocky, arrogent, rude and a man-whore. There is a difference in my mind between letting loose and being a jackass. Cruz’s character just blurred that line a little too much. Now that I have said all that, I am going to turn around and tell you that it takes a special kind of guy to own up to his mistakes and to want to try and make things better. He sees what he has done and just wants to fix it and that I completely admired about his character. There was redemption in his character and that made me smile. He character changed so drastically from the beginning of the book to the end of it. But I guess that is the point.
Then we have to look at the flip side of the coin. Though I thought Harlow was a snob in the beginning with her five-dollar words, her character grew on me more and more. She wasn’t strong, she was trying to be. She was broken on the inside from her past and was trying on her own to get better. What I liked about that is she wasn’t trying to do it with a guy or for a guy, but that guy sure did help!
I was a little surprised that the first thing you read in this book is a sex scene. I stopped and thought, ok. That’s one heck of a beginning…it was definatley attention grabbing. It wasn’t bad, but it was so unexpected to open up a book to two people going at it in a bathroom… but obviously it caught my attention and I was intrigued with where the story was going to go from there. It was a unique catch at the beginning.
I did love the alternating points of view in the book. I liked reading both perspectives of the story and I liked the overall premise of the story. Over all it was a great story, with some serious steam. I am looking forward to the next book to find out what happens to this couple or not couple…
*I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
November 18, 2015
PROLOGUE = sucked in with no hope of getting out.
This book was freaking BRILLIANT!!!!
This story is M.R. Joseph's BEST work to date and that's saying something since Luca had my heart. I want to say straight off that the growth of M.R. Joseph as an author was shown in a spectacular display with 'Giving In', and if I wasn't already a fan this story would ensure I became one.
Raphel and Harlow are two EXCEPTIONAL characters. From the start they captured your interest and kept you enthralled, demanding you keep turning the pages until the very last one.... But by god be ready for a cliffhanger that will leave you rocking in a corner in the foetal position wanting more.
A sexy, cocky manwhore cop and a feisty, sassy girl from old money who wants nothing to do with it.... Talk about a wrong fit, that is oh so RIGHT!
Their story is full of ups and downs, laughter and anger and builds from a friendship the has you on a rollercoaster. If you don't experience a HUGE range of emotions while reading this, you need to seek therapy because this book has it ALL. "Turnip" and "Dickcop" provide an entertaining read that you wont want to put down.
The secondary characters are fantastic and have a real purpose to the storyline, they aren't just there in the background as fill ins. My feelings towards these characters spanned a wide spectrum; on one end I absolutely adored every single thing about Willow and on the other end I wanted to beat up the grandmother... Interesting right.
This book was just WOW!
Now before I run off and do the "Macarena" to pass the time until book two is released (you will understand that reference when you read the story), let me just say that this book has sky rocketed to number 1 on my MUST READ recommendation list for 2014... GET IT and DEVOUR IT NOW!
This book was freaking BRILLIANT!!!!
This story is M.R. Joseph's BEST work to date and that's saying something since Luca had my heart. I want to say straight off that the growth of M.R. Joseph as an author was shown in a spectacular display with 'Giving In', and if I wasn't already a fan this story would ensure I became one.
Raphel and Harlow are two EXCEPTIONAL characters. From the start they captured your interest and kept you enthralled, demanding you keep turning the pages until the very last one.... But by god be ready for a cliffhanger that will leave you rocking in a corner in the foetal position wanting more.
A sexy, cocky manwhore cop and a feisty, sassy girl from old money who wants nothing to do with it.... Talk about a wrong fit, that is oh so RIGHT!
Their story is full of ups and downs, laughter and anger and builds from a friendship the has you on a rollercoaster. If you don't experience a HUGE range of emotions while reading this, you need to seek therapy because this book has it ALL. "Turnip" and "Dickcop" provide an entertaining read that you wont want to put down.
The secondary characters are fantastic and have a real purpose to the storyline, they aren't just there in the background as fill ins. My feelings towards these characters spanned a wide spectrum; on one end I absolutely adored every single thing about Willow and on the other end I wanted to beat up the grandmother... Interesting right.
This book was just WOW!
Now before I run off and do the "Macarena" to pass the time until book two is released (you will understand that reference when you read the story), let me just say that this book has sky rocketed to number 1 on my MUST READ recommendation list for 2014... GET IT and DEVOUR IT NOW!
August 14, 2016
Giving In had me from the beginning and let me tell you author M.R. Joseph knows how to start off with a bang.....literally. The mood was set and Raphael Cruz did not disappoint from start to finish. I suffered from "Hot Man In Uniform Syndrome" when it came to Cruz. His cocky attitude covers up his insecurities as he fights to believe he deserves a happily ever after. Having never uttered the words "I Love You", he is in constant battle with what he wants and what he needs.
Harlow is grounded, has wealth at her fingertips yet wants nothing more than a normal life without the evil money carries with it. After being put through hell with her ex, she is broken and desperate to put the past behind her.
Cruz and Harlow prove the best bonds in life form through friendship. This story has a progression that is natural as well as believable. There are no crazy antics or unnecessary evils even if you do want to smack a granny and kick a dude where is counts. The path is not easy for both Harlow and Cruz. The past continues to haunt both of them. Their desperate need to rise above is their determining factor.
This book did leave me with a few questions (cliffhanger) yet I feel completely satisfied at the same time. I definitely consider it a page turner and a quick read thanks to the easy flow of the writing style. I happen to love when a book lets you read it without having to over-think the plot.
I am excited to see where this series goes and look forward to more from this author. I definitely felt the magic of the shore! 5 solid stars....go pick this one up!!!
Harlow is grounded, has wealth at her fingertips yet wants nothing more than a normal life without the evil money carries with it. After being put through hell with her ex, she is broken and desperate to put the past behind her.
Cruz and Harlow prove the best bonds in life form through friendship. This story has a progression that is natural as well as believable. There are no crazy antics or unnecessary evils even if you do want to smack a granny and kick a dude where is counts. The path is not easy for both Harlow and Cruz. The past continues to haunt both of them. Their desperate need to rise above is their determining factor.
This book did leave me with a few questions (cliffhanger) yet I feel completely satisfied at the same time. I definitely consider it a page turner and a quick read thanks to the easy flow of the writing style. I happen to love when a book lets you read it without having to over-think the plot.
I am excited to see where this series goes and look forward to more from this author. I definitely felt the magic of the shore! 5 solid stars....go pick this one up!!!
November 29, 2014
~~I was gifted this book in exchange for an honest review~~
I love a great love story. This one is a great love story.
Have you ever had a one night stand with a guy or girl that is hotter than hot, and that act took place in a very public bathroom? You thought to your self, eh, I'll NEVER see that person again-what the hell. But come to find out that one tryst, is friends with your friends and you see each other again a year later?
Harlow is a very smart woman. She knows what she wants and she goes after it. Right now, all she wants is to relax and forget that the past year ever happened. Her friends love her and tease her about using incredably big words when she speaks. Just as shes starting to relax, she runs into the last person that she wants to see, the mystery man from the one night stand last year.
All Cruz wants to do is drink, have fun and find women. One night stands are all he is concerned with, no feelings no emotions, just wham bam thank you maam. But there is one thing that he can't get off of his mind, and he just so happend to pull her over for swerving. She is back in town and he starts to think about that night.
She just wants to forget and have him leave her alone, he just wants to talk and give her a hard time. Can they live together? Can they become frineds? Will they fall into bed with each other again?
M.R. Joseph writes with beauty and elegance. This is the first book that I have read by her, and it isn't going to be the last.
I love a great love story. This one is a great love story.
Have you ever had a one night stand with a guy or girl that is hotter than hot, and that act took place in a very public bathroom? You thought to your self, eh, I'll NEVER see that person again-what the hell. But come to find out that one tryst, is friends with your friends and you see each other again a year later?
Harlow is a very smart woman. She knows what she wants and she goes after it. Right now, all she wants is to relax and forget that the past year ever happened. Her friends love her and tease her about using incredably big words when she speaks. Just as shes starting to relax, she runs into the last person that she wants to see, the mystery man from the one night stand last year.
All Cruz wants to do is drink, have fun and find women. One night stands are all he is concerned with, no feelings no emotions, just wham bam thank you maam. But there is one thing that he can't get off of his mind, and he just so happend to pull her over for swerving. She is back in town and he starts to think about that night.
She just wants to forget and have him leave her alone, he just wants to talk and give her a hard time. Can they live together? Can they become frineds? Will they fall into bed with each other again?
M.R. Joseph writes with beauty and elegance. This is the first book that I have read by her, and it isn't going to be the last.
June 22, 2014
Giving In was a pleasant surprise. I love when I get a chance to read a book that I might have passed up on. The story was very well written and you can’t help fall in love with Cruz and Harlow and their unexpected love story. I love when a book makes you laugh one minute and the next minute makes you feel the pain the characters are experiencing.
What happens when Mr. Toot it and boot it finally takes the love plunge—fights, chasing, love and heartbreak. Harlow has been hurt in the past. You know what they say once bitten twice shy and once the walls have been built it will take some work to get them to fall. Cruz, I felt sorry for him, I was embarrassed for him and I fell in love with him. He was everything I wanted and knew he could be.
The end of the book leaves you wondering what the hell happen. I love to hate a good cliffy, but when you get to the end and experience that feeling of wanting the next book right the hell now, you are reminded why you love them. It’s the wait that draws you in leaving you with that giddy feeling of not knowing what will happen in Book 2.
What happens when Mr. Toot it and boot it finally takes the love plunge—fights, chasing, love and heartbreak. Harlow has been hurt in the past. You know what they say once bitten twice shy and once the walls have been built it will take some work to get them to fall. Cruz, I felt sorry for him, I was embarrassed for him and I fell in love with him. He was everything I wanted and knew he could be.
The end of the book leaves you wondering what the hell happen. I love to hate a good cliffy, but when you get to the end and experience that feeling of wanting the next book right the hell now, you are reminded why you love them. It’s the wait that draws you in leaving you with that giddy feeling of not knowing what will happen in Book 2.
March 10, 2014
Wow! I couldn't put this one down.
Growing up in Philadelphia I've been going to the Jersey shore for as long as I can remember. Days on the beach and nights walking the boardwalk. This brought back memories of summers spent having fun at the beach.
Cruz is your typical man-whore. His motto 'get in and get out.' But he is sexy and a smooth talker. Harlow has had some bumps in her past but is learning to get past them. Together they become friends letting each other in. They make each other's lives whole and complete.
Some people are bitter and unloving and don't care who they hurt. Harlow's Granny is a conniving bitch. She comes from old money, need I say more.
With one wrong decision, a mistake of all mistakes Harlow and Cruz's worlds will come crashing down. Will their love survive?
This book kept my attention from page one to the last page. It had everything a book should have except that damn ending. Have I said how much I hate cliff hangers? Well I do.
I can't wait to see where these two end up.
Growing up in Philadelphia I've been going to the Jersey shore for as long as I can remember. Days on the beach and nights walking the boardwalk. This brought back memories of summers spent having fun at the beach.
Cruz is your typical man-whore. His motto 'get in and get out.' But he is sexy and a smooth talker. Harlow has had some bumps in her past but is learning to get past them. Together they become friends letting each other in. They make each other's lives whole and complete.
Some people are bitter and unloving and don't care who they hurt. Harlow's Granny is a conniving bitch. She comes from old money, need I say more.
With one wrong decision, a mistake of all mistakes Harlow and Cruz's worlds will come crashing down. Will their love survive?
This book kept my attention from page one to the last page. It had everything a book should have except that damn ending. Have I said how much I hate cliff hangers? Well I do.
I can't wait to see where these two end up.
May 19, 2014
5 ***** Stars easily. I just fell in love with Harlow & Cruz <3 They didn't met like most couples do. But, you never knew when the past with find you together again. Harlow is out to prove a lot of things but, mostly her ex asshat boyfriend. He treated her as weak and dumb person. All the while cheating on her.
Cruz had a tough life growing up with his brother Tony. They finally made their way out with Cruz joining the Marines and Antonio is married with a baby on the way. Cruz is now trying to become a cop.
When Harlow & Cruz meet again a year later it isn't a loving reunion. They fight and argue over everything. Finally they decide on a truce.
While spending the summer together with their friends they grow closer.....
There is an Evil Witch out to keep them apart. And because of her Harlow is put into horrible trouble.
Can Cruz get his turnip back? Can Harlow trust him?
Warning, have a box of tissues ready before you're done with It.
I need Book like, yesterday. What a cliffhanger....Put let us know when we get more Harlow & Cruz
Cruz had a tough life growing up with his brother Tony. They finally made their way out with Cruz joining the Marines and Antonio is married with a baby on the way. Cruz is now trying to become a cop.
When Harlow & Cruz meet again a year later it isn't a loving reunion. They fight and argue over everything. Finally they decide on a truce.
While spending the summer together with their friends they grow closer.....
There is an Evil Witch out to keep them apart. And because of her Harlow is put into horrible trouble.
Can Cruz get his turnip back? Can Harlow trust him?
Warning, have a box of tissues ready before you're done with It.
I need Book like, yesterday. What a cliffhanger....Put let us know when we get more Harlow & Cruz
March 6, 2015
1.5
Drama, drama, drama, drama...
Personagens confusos, fracos e com problemas de personalidade.
A mocinha é completamente desequilibrada psicologicamente e o mocinho é um mulherengo que tem vergonha de suas raízes e se converte para o universo "relacionamento sério" com a maior facilidade.
Achei que a história poderia ter sido contada de uma forma muito mais envolvente, e a autora poderia ter gastado mais tempo nos mostrando a evolução do relacionamento dos personagens que se detestam e terminam se amando.
O livro começou muito bem, depois ficou boring pra caramba e no final as coisas foram ficando mais interessantes, apesar do drama que ultrapassou as barreiras de novela mexicana. A trama em si não tem nada de novo e o livro termina mal.
Eu não gostei dos personagens, não estava nem aí pro drama deles, principalmente as histórias tristes da mocinha, que tinha uma cabeça muito fraca.
Drama, drama e mais drama!!!
Drama, drama, drama, drama...
Personagens confusos, fracos e com problemas de personalidade.
A mocinha é completamente desequilibrada psicologicamente e o mocinho é um mulherengo que tem vergonha de suas raízes e se converte para o universo "relacionamento sério" com a maior facilidade.
Achei que a história poderia ter sido contada de uma forma muito mais envolvente, e a autora poderia ter gastado mais tempo nos mostrando a evolução do relacionamento dos personagens que se detestam e terminam se amando.
O livro começou muito bem, depois ficou boring pra caramba e no final as coisas foram ficando mais interessantes, apesar do drama que ultrapassou as barreiras de novela mexicana. A trama em si não tem nada de novo e o livro termina mal.
Eu não gostei dos personagens, não estava nem aí pro drama deles, principalmente as histórias tristes da mocinha, que tinha uma cabeça muito fraca.
Drama, drama e mais drama!!!
February 8, 2014
I was lucky enough to read an ARC of this title, and it was all that I was expecting and more. M.R. incorporates her trademark heartbreak after developing a fun friendship, followed by a sexy and heartwarming romantic connection. I can't say where the heartbreak ensues, but I can say that it wasn't expected to be delivered the way it was. Harlow is feisty and a bit neurotic, which is a welcome and admirable personality given her past. Cruz undergoes such a transformation that you can't help but cheer from him...he goes from commitment phobic macho man to sweet and sensitive. Supporting characters are also a positive, but they are just that for these two. They positively compliment and contrast, drawing humorous and angering reactions from the main characters. Another well told story! Now, to settle my own neurotic behavior waiting for book #2.
May 8, 2014
I started off with WOW! That was some hot bathroom sex....
Cruz was a little man whore I do have to admit, but when he realized that he had honest feeling for Harlow he went after what he wanted...and it was HARLOW.
I have to admit Harlow as a little hard to like there at first. I never did truely understand just want her issue was. I understand that she was controlled by her ex-boyfriend, but to the point to where she has/had the problems that she does? I think I needed more explanations that what I got...or maybe I am just a little slow??? Either way is entirely possible!
I liked how these two characters became friends before lovers.
The ending of this book...OMG!!! PLEASE HURRY UP WITH BOOK TWO!!! you cannot leave me/us hanging like that ...it is CRUEL!!!!
Great book...go check it out!
Cruz was a little man whore I do have to admit, but when he realized that he had honest feeling for Harlow he went after what he wanted...and it was HARLOW.
I have to admit Harlow as a little hard to like there at first. I never did truely understand just want her issue was. I understand that she was controlled by her ex-boyfriend, but to the point to where she has/had the problems that she does? I think I needed more explanations that what I got...or maybe I am just a little slow??? Either way is entirely possible!
I liked how these two characters became friends before lovers.
The ending of this book...OMG!!! PLEASE HURRY UP WITH BOOK TWO!!! you cannot leave me/us hanging like that ...it is CRUEL!!!!
Great book...go check it out!
April 9, 2014
What a fabulous, sweet, heart wrenching story.... This one will grab your attention from the start of the Prologue. This book had me laughing from the start. I love how this author incorporated humor and hart wrenching moments in this story. At first you seriously want to hate Cruz cause let's face it, he comes off as the biggest ass there is. And Harlow comes off as weird and a bit of a bitch. Then as the story unfolds you find out why these characters act like they do. They grow so much as the story comes along and it's amazing how it easily flowed. It does have a cliffhanger which sucks but I am definitely impatiently waiting for the second book. It truly is a great story. I highly recommend not only this title but this author. :)
July 28, 2015
This book definitely pulled at my heartstrings...
I will start off by saying that I was not the biggest fan of the prologue. .it almost made me stop reading. However I didn't, and I am glad I didn't.
Harlow and Cruz's story gave me all the feels.. I laughed, I cried, I got angry, and I smiled.
This story is about Harlow who is trying to escape her past and who starts an unlikely friendship with an old hook-up turned neighbor...she makes him feel things he hasnt before, and he makes her feel whole...but are their worlds too different, can their love be enough? All I can say without telling you the whole story is that at all times one moment can change your life and this book proves that beginning to end!
I will start off by saying that I was not the biggest fan of the prologue. .it almost made me stop reading. However I didn't, and I am glad I didn't.
Harlow and Cruz's story gave me all the feels.. I laughed, I cried, I got angry, and I smiled.
This story is about Harlow who is trying to escape her past and who starts an unlikely friendship with an old hook-up turned neighbor...she makes him feel things he hasnt before, and he makes her feel whole...but are their worlds too different, can their love be enough? All I can say without telling you the whole story is that at all times one moment can change your life and this book proves that beginning to end!
July 2, 2014
The one and only Cruz & Harlow! I couldn't stop reading! Then BAM! For crying out loud, what happens next? Harlow and Cruz are a hot mess, crazy, funny, complex and surrounded by all their friends at the beach! Don't be surprised if you feel like you are sitting on a dock sipping coffee at some point, while you are reading. MR Joseph has done it again! As much as I am still in love with Luca Ferro, from Letters to Luca, Cruz is ALL mine! I love Cruz! He is one hot bad boy! Just like fine wine, MR Joseph keeps getting better and better! Keep writing MR! And write fast, I need to know what happens to Harlow & Cruz!
February 9, 2014
I was lucky enough to be provided an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review. After all of the teasers MR Joseph dealt, I was so excited to read this! The friendship/love that transpired between Cruz and Harlow is real. I could feel the happiness and the sadness. The hurt and the love..
and not to mention the passion!!! God love those stars Cruz sports! The book made me feel as I was a part of this escapade! I truly can not wait for the continuation of this! MR Joseph, great job! Thank you for giving me something to look forward to reading!!!
and not to mention the passion!!! God love those stars Cruz sports! The book made me feel as I was a part of this escapade! I truly can not wait for the continuation of this! MR Joseph, great job! Thank you for giving me something to look forward to reading!!!
March 21, 2014
M.R. never disappoints, and she did it again. Harlow and Cruz's story took me through every emotion I laughed, cried and I had to walk away from the book a couple times because of the intense situations. Did I like the cliffhanger? No! Can't wait until the next installment in this series. I am sure I will not be disappointed.
May 27, 2014
I have read and loved every book by M.r.Joseph but this is my absolute favorite!! I loved Cruz an Harlow. This book made me laugh, smile and of course cry too. I can't wait for the next book to read more of their story!!
March 10, 2014
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. I couldn't put the book down & finished reading it in a day.
From the opening 'scene' to the cliff hanger, I was completely enthralled.
I believe it's a well written story & it will want you wanting more. Looking forward to the next book!
From the opening 'scene' to the cliff hanger, I was completely enthralled.
I believe it's a well written story & it will want you wanting more. Looking forward to the next book!
March 28, 2014
Wow...This story grabbed right on and didn't let go. I couldn't put it down. The twist the turns just kept coming. Definitely an emotional roller coaster...The ending had my head Screaming No !!! I can't hardly wait for book 2 :o)
July 21, 2014
The beginning starts off right where you would expect to be when you are almost done reading this book let me just say extremely hot sex scene. From hot sex in the bathroom a a bar to hating to falling in love this was one hot book.
July 22, 2014
This book was so good. It does have one heck of a cliff hanger, so I am glad that I didn't read it until now. Now I just started on Book 2 because I have to see what happens with Turnip and Cruz. I just hope they end up together.
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