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Intertwined Hearts #2

An Exceptional Twist

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What’s a girl to do when the guy she’s been warned about is the only one her heart desires?

Leah is a sassy, hard-working woman whose beauty shines from both inside and out. Friends and family have always come first, but it's time for her to start thinking about her own future.

Stefen is a rich, charming, sexy playboy. With seemingly no effort on his part, women flock to him. That is, until he meets Leah. He can’t understand why it’s so difficult to win her over or what it is about her that intrigues him so much.

When an unfortunate event intertwines their lives, Leah finds herself in a war between her thoughts and desires. To forgive, and ultimately trust Stefen, she will have to put her heart on the line. After what he’s put her through, she’s not sure she’s willing to do that.

As compassion meets resistance, will Stefen be able to step out of his comfort zone and accept that he can become the redeemed man worthy of Leah’s love? Is Stefen and Leah’s connection strong enough to withstand An Exceptional Twist?

✰✰✰ An Exceptional Twist is a heartfelt contemporary romance with many laugh-out-loud moments and has a small-town feel. The characters have sizzling chemistry and don't shy away from sharing their pasts or their attraction to each other but any intimate scenes fade-to-black and happen behind closed doors ✰✰✰

356 pages, ebook

First published January 27, 2014

229 people are currently reading
461 people want to read

About the author

Kimi Flores

9 books284 followers
Kimi lives in Southern California with her husband (who happened to be her prom date back in 19), their two sons, a rambunctious fur child, and three bearded dragons.

When she's not reading, writing, or hanging out with family and friends, Kimi spends her time at the beach, trail hiking, or in the kitchen, trying to create plant-based meals that don't taste like, well, tofu.

Kimi's writing includes heartfelt contemporary (fade-to-black/closed-door) romance novels. She is currently working on several laugh-out-loud, sweet romantic comedies.

Volunteering is extremely important to her, and she and her family work closely with several local non-profit organizations, including Saving Innocence and Young Life. A portion of her sales will always go to charity.

You can contact Kimi at:
authorkimiflores@gmail.com

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
Profile Image for Philomena Callan Cheekypee.
3,992 reviews430 followers
February 7, 2014
This is book two. Although it can be read as a stand alone I highly recommend you read book one first.
Stefan the main male character in this book is just oh so hot. Really loved Leah the main female character. I loved yet never expected the twist that the author threw at me. I loved that we got to read about the characters from book one... Great bonus.
This is a really lovely sweet story that will have your emotions all over the place. As much as I loved book one I loved this more.
Received in return for an honest review.
Profile Image for Hot Romance Novel.
124 reviews14 followers
February 8, 2014
This was a such a witty, funny charming, fun romance story. The story had me from start to finish and literally did not put it down. It was a great change of pace since it was not a sappy, weeping romance. I absolutely thought Leah was a fabulous character. She so sweet and strong, yet gentle and so naïve. I laughed so hard at some of Leah's snappy comebacks. Stefen, well he was definitely a character for sure. Oh, my gosh he was so full of himself. Quite shallow to be more specific! I highly recommend this story for anyone who is interested in a light heartwarming romance.
Profile Image for Lustful Literature.
1,822 reviews336 followers
February 10, 2014
**JOSIE'S REVIEW**

*Potential Spoilers Below*


This is book 2 in the Intertwined Hearts Series, and I fell in love with Stef and Leah. How do protect your heart from a man that keeps sneaking his way into it? A man who does not think he deserves to be loved. A man that does not do commitment. A man that will tear your heart into pieces.

There is so much more to Stefen than the arrogant, cocky, pompous man he shows everyone, expect for Leah who sees him for who and what he really is. The more time they spend together, he starts to show more of his true self to Leah and the more he starts to slip. We see Caleb and Abby in this book, which I love. Stefen is not looking for what Caleb found with Abby. He does not do commitment, marriage and children are not in his future. That is the opposite of what Leah wants and envisions. She wants to get married and have a family of her own. Stefen knows Leah is different and deserves someone worthy of her. But he cannot resist fighting the strong feelings he has for her. Leah leaves him vulnerable while Leah believes she has found the ONE is Stefen. One night, they both give in and everything changes.

“So that’s it? You’re done, and now you’re leaving? Unbelievable?”

“Leah, I don’t ever stay after it’s over. You know this is who I am.”

“Did you seriously just say that? After everything we just did? Sh*t. Why the hell did I let myself get sucked into your bullsh*t.”

“Don’t be upset. I wish it was different for us. I meant when I told you I’ve never felt his way before, but it’s not who I am. You’ve said it yourself, I’m just looking for my next piece of a$$.”

“Get the hell out of my house, puto.”
(KICK ASS CHICK)

I was so upset with Stefen. He knew Leah was different. He felt it but it felt he did not deserve her. I wanted to punch him out, I was such a mess. (How the hell am I going to leave without kissing her? Sh*t I’ve got it bad for this girl. I’m a selfish bastard; I just want to be near her on more time). This is where fate throws Stefen a blow. He goes back to Chicago and the same night he gets there, he is attacked brutally by a client (Stefen is Lawyer). Abby and Caleb go to his side and convince him to come back to California, so they can take care of him. While recuperating at Caleb and Abby’s home, he is shocked to hear that Leah is moving on. He starts to feel a pain his chest. He was constantly thinking about Leah but was too ashamed to ask about her.

“Stefen’s heart hammered. This was bad. He had no right to care but he couldn’t help it.”

Taking care of Stefen, starts to take a toll on Abby. Although Stefen is not her favorite person, Leah offers to help Abby take care of Stefen. Leah is a really strong character. She is open, blunt and has a big heart. Stefen is taken aback by Leah and it only adds to his deep feelings that Leah deserves better.

“Why are you here? It was nice of you but I can manage.”

“Don’t be mistake. I’m not that nice. I’m only doing it for Abby. Besides, I wouldn’t leave an injured dog in the street.”

“I really screwed up Leah. You must hate me.”


They still want to be a part of each other lives, so they decide to be friends. They have a great connection but Stefen destroyed Leah the last time and she will not let him do that again. She starts to have a relationship with Ben (Old High School crush) thinking he will be the one. Stefen immediately feels, jealous and protective of his relationship with Leah. The more time they spend together the more Stefen feels so bad for what happened. He finally starts to understand what his feelings mean. He has never felt this before and he really did not know what it was.

“You’re amazing, and I can’t just imagine my life without you. There’s no excuse. But honestly, you scared the sh*t out of me before. Can you please forgive me?”

“I willingly gave you something that I can never take back and you broke my heart. You knocked my self-confidence down and shattered my spirit. I’ve been able to move on, and I’m grateful for the new ‘us’ but please don’t take advantage of that.”


Stefen does redeem himself. He loves Leah and he has finely come to terms with his feelings. He decides to take the bull by the horns, and let his feelings be known. I swear, I swooned! And let me say I really disliked him after what he did, but I had to give him 10 swoony-worthy stars for when he finally told Leah.

“I really tried to give you the space you said you needed, but I can’t fight it anymore, Leah. I get that you’re afraid of losing what we now have, but I’m not. I want your whole heart. I want to be the one that gives you butterflies whenever you see me. I want to make your heart race when you hear my voice. I want all of you, not just your friendship.”

Can they find their way to forever? Can Stefen get Leah to trust him again? There are so many things stacked against these two, I was not sure if they could make it work. Leah has had her heart broken so many times. Does she love and trust Stefen enough to let her walls down again? I will tell that we have no CH, and we get a HEA. I was very happy with how it went. This was not a fast happy ever after though. It was slow and you fell more in love with both characters.

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Michelle Kannan.
480 reviews20 followers
February 7, 2014
>MICHELLE'S REVIEW

I was so excited to read Leah and Stefan's story after meeting them in It All Started With a Lima Bean. You can read my review of book 1 here.


First, I have to say these books are pure romance. You are not going to get the clothes being ripped off, orgasm having kind of sex scenes that we love. But- as with book 1- KFlores does a great job of making the book interesting to the point where I didn't miss the overly descriptive sex. Now don't let this confuse you. I think the power of not going into the details of what happens when these two characters do get naked is that you feel their connection in a different way.


Stefan and Leah have a chemistry that is undeniable and Leah has a heart of gold. But Stefan is a total player at heart and so when he starts to feel something for Leah he takes the cowards way out. What I love about Leah is she has this amazing backbone and does not put up with Stefan's shit. There is a moment, fairly early on where Stefan just effs it all up and you're sitting there like this:


And there is a part of you that thinks Leah is just going to beg Stefan to man up. But instead she totally shows off her brass balls and is like



Of course afterwards she does what any one of us would do in her situation and lets the emotions in.


Without spoiling anything , Stefan and Leah both think they are parting ways but find themselves thrust back together because of circumstances out of their control. And what happens next is pretty awesome. Leah and Stefan actually have a chance to develop a friendship and it's pretty amazing. In real life the best lovers are also friends so it makes their story that much more believable and realistic.


But of course, these two were never just friends and eventually the chemistry between them becomes to much. But their fear continues to hold them back and so begins a whole lot of angst!!


I think people who are looking for a feel good romance should definitely pick this one up. There were a few times where I was getting impatient waiting for these two to stop being so stubborn BUT overall I thought it was a very sweet read!


KFlores writes some amazing and relatable characters. Stefan was a player but they way he was written, I almost felt sorry for him before KFlores gave us a good reason to feel sorry for him. There are some people that just don't know any better or think so little of themselves that they act a certain way. That's how I saw Stefan. As much as LOVE Caleb, I sometimes thought he was almost too hard on Stefan. But Caleb is so sweet and protective, it's impossible not to love him.


I loved Abby in the first book and found her to be easy to relate to. I found myself feeling the same way about Leah and based on the preview at the end of the book and what we saw of her in this book, I think I am going to love Dani's story! And if her love interest is who I think it is- yay!!


And of course you have sweet, little Maddie. That is one funny little girl!! You will fall in love with her all over again!


Do yourself a favor and get to know the gang in the Intertwined Heart series.


Profile Image for ✰  BJ's Book Blog ✰Janeane ✰.
3,024 reviews12 followers
February 9, 2014
ARC received for an honest review

An Exceptional Twist starts off where It All Started with A Lima Bean ends, so you should read it first ~~ It could be read as a stand alone though if you wanted.

Stefen and Leah first met at his cousin's engagement party to her best friend, Caleb and Abby.

There is the instant attraction, but both have been warned off the other by their well meaning family and friends. Stefen is a player, and Leah deserves better than that.

But the heart wants what the heart wants ~ and these two want each other.

There is so much more to Stefen than the playboy image he puts out there. He is a commitment-phobe. He doesn't believe in marriage, he is never with the same girl more than a couple of times. But beneath it all, he is jealous of what his cousin has found, and harbours that want ~ sure, it is deep, deep down, but he wants that too.

Leah has spent her life building up her successful business with not time for relationships. She is the complete opposite of Abby. Where Abby is quiet and thoughtful, Leah is loud and outspoken. She is a spitfire. She also wants what Caleb and Abby has, but hasn't found it yet.

Where Caleb and Abby's romance was sweet, Stefen and Leah is fiery, animalistic. What starts out as pure lust soon turns to need and much much more

Of course the road to love is never an easy one, and this has never been more true than with Stefen and Leah. Their story is an emotional rollercoaster.

After that step is taken, things take a turn, and Stefen and Leah are thrown together more than they expect or want. A wonderful friendship grows from this time together, but can they have more?

It is a tale of love and hate, betrayal, need, sadness and happiness, forgiveness. And as the title alludes to, there is a twist in the tale!

I wanted to love Stefen, I wanted to hate him. He does some pretty deplorable things, but I couldn't hate him!

Leah's family are fantastic. Her sister Dani is hilarious at times, but we learn a little more about her that makes your heart ache for her. I hope we get more of her story soon.

We get more of Caleb, Abby and Maddy, starting off on their new life together..

Leah's mum plays a big part in Leah's story, and there are some funny interactions between her and Stefen. The telenovellas scene made me laugh!!
"Your mom so watches porn" hahahaha!!!

This series is pure romance. No panty-ripping sex every second page. I feel that this gives us a different, deeper connection with Stefen and Leah.

Ms Flores had me when she wrote It All Started with A Lima Bean, but she has excelled herself with An Exceptional Twist. The character development feels natural, nothing happens at warp speed/insta-love like with so many books we read these days.

I look forward to more of this series!
Profile Image for Tbird London.
558 reviews4 followers
December 6, 2014
Leah and Stefen were brought together when Abby, Leah’s best friend married Caleb, Stefen’s cousin. On paper those two were not a match made in heaven. They probably shouldn’t even be in the same town, Leah was old fashion, needing to establish a friendship first then an emotional connection before having sex. Stefen was a one night stand kind of man, vowing to never fall for the traps of marriage and children.

As Stefen was staying at the house while Abby and Caleb were off on their honeymoon, Leah had volunteered to show Stefen around town, keep him company but those plans seemed like a bad idea once she realized her heart was falling for him. Stefen saw Leah as the next conquest, even though he had been warned by others to keep his hands off of her. It didn’t matter how many times he reminded himself she was just another pretty lady, his heart kept telling him she was different. Leah tried to show him the way of life for a hard working woman who grew up on modest means. Stefen kept wondering how a person would survive in this world without the finer things in life.

Events happen that lead to heart break for Leah and Stefen, vowing to never even talk again they try to go one with their lives. Leah went back to her floral business, Stefen went back to his life in Chicago until life dealt Stefen a hand he wasn’t prepared for. He found himself in need of care and support, but who would come to his aid? He had pushed everyone away but Abby and Caleb. Leah knew she had to follow her heart and stepped up to offer her assistance.

The author takes us on a wonderful journey of watching two broken souls come together and build a friendship between them. Where forgiveness and love can take a relationship was heartwarming in this book. We saw both let down the walls, restructure how they viewed the world and each other. I was drawn to the way the author once again shared a story of passion and love without having to use sex to sell the book. I was emotionally invested in each character and if you have read It All Started with a Lima Bean, you will remember the adorable Madison. She once again makes an appearance in this story that helped build a bridge between Leah and Stefen. I adore this author’s ability to bring me a story that melts my heart and keeps me invested in the story with real life issues and no need to dramatize life events to make it sell. She has stayed true to her beliefs that the human heart should be enough to make us readers care. I really admire that about her and her writing talent just amazes me. Make sure you get your copy of Exceptional Twist and be ready for her next book to come in this series.
Profile Image for Shelly.
80 reviews2 followers
February 19, 2014
#2 in the Intertwined Hearts series and should be #1, just kidding. It is a great book though. I love how Kimi added a little "twist" to the series, adding "mature language & adult situations" :-) Leah is definitely a spitfire and Stephen, well, he's definitely had an ego. I enjoyed feeling the pull between the two of them as well as the fight they were trying to put up against each other and their feelings. This series is highly recommended to all who enjoy a good love story!!
Profile Image for Renee.
1,303 reviews27 followers
September 11, 2014
I have so many nooks to read but I can't go on. I'm so in love with Santa Barbara and these characters that I'm going on to read book 3 now. I really was happily blown away again. Madison is really the perfect kid. Her one liners and dialogues were precious. Stefan is drool worthy I'm stressing it's a must read
Profile Image for Marissa Chavez.
1,364 reviews4 followers
August 12, 2020
💐❤

Wow! Leah and Stefen were absolutely perfect! I loved how their relationship played out from all the good to even some of the bad. Even though Stefen was fighting his feelings for Leah I knew they belong together. ☺❤ I loved everything about them! I seriously couldn't get enough of them. Plus
I also loved seeing all the others from the first book it was awesome! Can't wait to read about Bri and Josh next!
Profile Image for All Romance.
420 reviews95 followers
February 7, 2014
>MICHELLE'S REVIEW

I was so excited to read Leah and Stefan's story after meeting them in It All Started With a Lima Bean. You can read my review of book 1 here.


First, I have to say these books are pure romance. You are not going to get the clothes being ripped off, orgasm having kind of sex scenes that we love. But- as with book 1- KFlores does a great job of making the book interesting to the point where I didn't miss the overly descriptive sex. Now don't let this confuse you. I think the power of not going into the details of what happens when these two characters do get naked is that you feel their connection in a different way.


Stefan and Leah have a chemistry that is undeniable and Leah has a heart of gold. But Stefan is a total player at heart and so when he starts to feel something for Leah he takes the cowards way out. What I love about Leah is she has this amazing backbone and does not put up with Stefan's shit. There is a moment, fairly early on where Stefan just effs it all up and you're sitting there like this:


And there is a part of you that thinks Leah is just going to beg Stefan to man up. But instead she totally shows off her brass balls and is like



Of course afterwards she does what any one of us would do in her situation and lets the emotions in.


Without spoiling anything , Stefan and Leah both think they are parting ways but find themselves thrust back together because of circumstances out of their control. And what happens next is pretty awesome. Leah and Stefan actually have a chance to develop a friendship and it's pretty amazing. In real life the best lovers are also friends so it makes their story that much more believable and realistic.


But of course, these two were never just friends and eventually the chemistry between them becomes to much. But their fear continues to hold them back and so begins a whole lot of angst!!


I think people who are looking for a feel good romance should definitely pick this one up. There were a few times where I was getting impatient waiting for these two to stop being so stubborn BUT overall I thought it was a very sweet read!


KFlores writes some amazing and relatable characters. Stefan was a player but they way he was written, I almost felt sorry for him before KFlores gave us a good reason to feel sorry for him. There are some people that just don't know any better or think so little of themselves that they act a certain way. That's how I saw Stefan. As much as LOVE Caleb, I sometimes thought he was almost too hard on Stefan. But Caleb is so sweet and protective, it's impossible not to love him.


I loved Abby in the first book and found her to be easy to relate to. I found myself feeling the same way about Leah and based on the preview at the end of the book and what we saw of her in this book, I think I am going to love Dani's story! And if her love interest is who I think it is- yay!!


And of course you have sweet, little Maddie. That is one funny little girl!! You will fall in love with her all over again!


Do yourself a favor and get to know the gang in the Intertwined Heart series.


Profile Image for Rebecca.
2,889 reviews160 followers
February 5, 2014
***Arc provided by author in exchange for an honest review***

An Exceptional Twist is the follow-up to Kimi Flores’ sweet romance story It All Started With a Lima Bean. Readers witness the attraction between Leah and Stefan in book one, and in book two, when Stefan stays in Santa Barbara while Abby and Caleb are on their honeymoon, the time they spend together only makes them want each other even more. But one night destroys Leah and Stefan’s friendship, and from then on, Leah plays it “safe” because she refuses to be left heartbroken again. Will an unexpected event allow Leah and Stefan the chance to reconnect or is the risk too great for both of them?

“’The bigger the risk, the better the reward.’”

Leah is a strong, independent woman who is a great friend, sister, and daughter, but she feels like something is missing in her life. Leah craves a relationship and a family; she wants what Abby and Caleb have. Throughout the story, readers see her multiple layers – she’s compassionate and giving when it comes to her dance kids; she’s hardworking and driven when it comes to her flower business; and she’s goofy and adventurous when it comes to Abby and Madison. But Stefan draws even more emotions from her – at times, she craves and cares for him, but other times, she can’t stand his player persona and his ego. He lights her up, but he also shatters her.

Stefan is an egotistical ass at the beginning of the story; he wants Leah in his bed, but he’s not willing or ready to give her anymore of himself. His upbringing has not allowed him to understand the concept of love or healthy relationships, so he has lived his life without attachments. When Leah and Stefan first start spending time together, he doesn’t know what to do with his strong emotions for her, and his actions crush Leah’s heart. But when Stefan comes back to Santa Barbara, slowly, Leah changes him, and he transforms into a man capable of love, but will his transformation be too late for his chance with Leah?

An Exceptional Twist is a story about redemption and second chances. It’s a sweet tale about going all in despite the risks. It’s a testament to the belief that opposites attract. Readers will be pulling for Leah and Stefan throughout the book, even when they want to strangle both of them – Stefan more so than Leah. What’s also great about the book is that Kimi Flores allows readers to keep up with Abby, Caleb, and Madison as well. We see the newly formed family thrive and help Stefan and Leah get through their personal issues and struggles. The Intertwined Hearts series is full of well written characters and complicated plots that keep readers interested until the end.

4 poison apples! (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
Profile Image for Jennifer Wolfel.
398 reviews28 followers
February 6, 2014
I was seriously anticipating the release of this book. I truly adored Kimi's first book. I was intrigued by Stefen from the first book and I couldn't wait to see where things were going to head with him. The untamed playboy that had such staunch belief that Love doesn't truly exist. That is until Leah his cousins new wife's best friend works her way into his thoughts and his heart.

Leah is a strong successful woman who has just never found the right man. They all only want one thing from her and once they get it they move on... When she meets Stefen at her best friends wedding she's immediately attracted to him but he is off limits. Not only is he practically family now that her best friend married his cousin, but he's a player of epic proportions and not what Leah needs.

Stefen is the ultimate playboy, he doesn't believe that love exists. He's lead a seriously crappy life with parents that don't talk to him let alone show him any love. He doesn't even truly know what love is, but then again he shows it every time he is with his little niece. The way he treats her will MELT your heart... Leah literally ROCKS his world... She's different then any woman that he ever met, resistant to his charms and turns down ever ludicrous proposition from him, he is more intrigued by the challenge then anything...

On more then one occasion I was ready to throw my reader... It made me think of one of my favorite movies actually... Why do they fight it... And when they stop fighting it will they realize that they are the perfect match. The sparks that fly between these two are undeniable. Their attraction to one another literally leaps off the pages. When Stefen turns on the swoon you will fall head over heals for him...

What was completely unexpected was the reason behind Stefen's extended stay after the wedding... this was a twist that I wasn't expecting at all. And though I enjoyed the suspense of it, I did feel that it could have been given a little more attention. The whole thing just felt a little underdeveloped. But even with that the storyline was still really good and Kimi's writing will keep you flipping the pages till the very end... I give this one 4 stars. I really did like this one a lot. Can't wait for the next book in this series!!!
Profile Image for DCT.
1,036 reviews2 followers
March 10, 2014
This is my second read by this author, and is the second book in the Intertwined Hearts series. We got to meet Leah in book one, which was Abby and Caleb's story, and I remembered thinking the Leah was a little Latin dynamo that I wanted to know more about. She is Abby's best friend, and as happy as she is for Abby's happiness, she silently wished that in her life. Leah is loyal, feisty, independent, creative, caring and trusting to a fault, oh and did I forget to mention that she is a beautiful Latin lovely?

We start the story at Abby and Caleb's wedding reception, where Leah is in close quarters with Stefen, Caleb's successful, gorgeous, playboy cousin, and he has set his sights on Leah and no one else will do. There is only one problem, Caleb has threatened Stefen's life if he exhibits his playboy ways with Leah; she is like family and he knows that Caleb is NOT the commitment, boyfriend type. Stefen tries to promise that he will be on his best behavior for the few weeks he will stay in Santa Barbara while the happy couple are on their honeymoon. However, there is no denying the instant attraction between Stefen and Leah, but a funny thing starts to happened; Leah really sees the good that is in Stefen, and he starts to share parts of himself to her that he never reveals to anyone, and a sweet friendship start to develop. However, fear, insecurities, misunderstandings, and lack of communication reek havoc on our couple and hence the angst in the story.

This is one of those sweet, feel good romantic stories that have you rooting for the couple to find their way. We get to see Stefen discover himself and the importance of love, trust and commitment, and we get to see Leah obtain the desires of her heart and the items on her bucket list. I love that this author is respectful of the romance and intimacy, giving just enough for the reader to interject their own ideas and imagination to the story. It looks like the next edition will be focused on Leah's sister Dani, and the Chef and vineyard owner Zachery. We get a sneak peek at the end of AET, and is feels like it will be more emotional with some sensitive subject matter; looking forward to it. Thanks Kimi for another sweet read.
Profile Image for Elle.
298 reviews
February 7, 2014
http://storiesandswag.blogspot.com/20...

An Exceptional Twist is another stellar romance and the second book in Kimi Flores’ Intertwined Hearts Series. Kimi’s sophomore novel follows Leah Valdez and Stefen Hunter, characters I met and was intrigued by in It All Started With a Lima Bean. If you haven’t read the first book, you must read it before diving into An Exceptional Twist, otherwise you’ll be lost.

Leah is the opposite of her best friend, Abby Sullivan. Our heroine is outspoken and sassy yet has a vulnerable side underneath those layers of Latin flare. Stefen is a player who goes through women faster than pairs of underwear. While his cousin, Caleb, grew up and out of this playboy mentality, Stefen has yet to extend beyond his womanizing ways. I love how different both lead characters are from the leads in Lima Bean. They are edgier and from their mutual stubbornness a more passionate, volatile connection between Stefen and Leah is developed. Tempers flare and romance ignites as opposites attract.

As with Lima Bean, this novel overall is a light-hearted story about following your heart and learning to let love heal the broken parts of you. Each character carries baggage from their past. Leah has a history of never being adequate enough for the men she has dated. Stefen has fought his entire life to exceed the impossible standards set by his parents. His attitude towards women is his way of maintaining some semblance of control in a life that was determined long before he was born. I was invested in these characters and the plot from the beginning, and thoroughly enjoyed the journey from start to finish. There’s an abundance of romance and sparks and even a few unexpected plot twists that left me in shock.

Kimi Flores has dialed up the heat and delivered another spectacular read with her second novel, An Exceptional Twist. This is the kind of story (and series) that is versatile and able to be enjoyed by all readers regardless of their genre preferences. One-click Stefen and Leah’s story today.
Profile Image for Sofia Lazaridou.
2,861 reviews136 followers
August 28, 2016
Stefen and Leah were not on the same page for most of the book. If they were reading a book, then Leah would have been ahead of Stefen and he wouldn't be able to give her everything she was asking. Then she gives up the book and decides to read another book and Stefen gets the lead. He keeps reading the same book and she tries to convince herself that the other book is satisfying. When she finally realizes how awful the other book was she abandons it and continued to read the first book. Finally Stefen and Leah got on the same page and finished the book together. I know that that little story is silly, but that's how I saw the whole book.
The only thing you have to do is replace the word book with the word relationship and use your imagination a bit and you got the story.

Despite the fact that I haven't read the first book yet (It All Started With a Lima Bean) I loved seeing Abby Caleb's life after they found out their HEA. I am super excited about Dani and Zachary's story as well as for Brianna and Josh's. There was a little glimpse about what is happening between the two couples and I am curious about what Kimi Flores has up for them.

I enjoyed the story and I only have one complaint. I don't know Spanish ok, maybe I know a couple of words, but not enough to understand what Leah's family was saying sometimes. I ended up reading something that I couldn't understand. To be fair to the author the Spanish sentences were a few and the reading experience wasn't tainted. Sometimes it was easy to make out what they were saying and some words are a bit explicit. It's nice to know that Greek and Spanish have some very similar words... That was the only problem I had with the book, so I would recommend the book without hesitation.
September 10, 2016
Falling in love with someone who doesn’t believe they want a commitment can only lead you to heartache. This is exactly what Leah Valdez experiences when she gets swept up in Stefen Hunter and all of his good looks.

Deep down there is more to Stefen than he is willing to let everyone see and Leah is able to catch glimpses from time to time. Once those slip-ups occur though that ‘ego’ of his must be seen again to balance itself back out. He isn’t looking for commitment and doesn’t want to get married or have kids. Leah on the other hand wants it all. She wants the happily ever after and believes that it is possible to have. She knows that is what she deserves and at one time believes that Stefen could be capable of it… until he proves her wrong. Stefen has to constantly fight those emotions he has for Leah until something changes…….

There were a lot of situations that I didn’t see coming and never expected. (I don’t want to reveal any spoilers but there are reasons behind some of the circumstances that are taking place in the story) I loved Madison and she brought some great humor in the story. I enjoyed reading the love that was shared between Abby and Caleb! Although Stefen and Caleb didn’t have the best parent’s in the world I enjoyed hearing about Leah’s family and the story of her parents. The story was told from both Leah and Stefen’s points of view which made it so much better getting inside of their heads! I loved getting to read Stefen’s thoughts and his struggles with the feelings he wasn’t use to.

This was definitely a great love story and a story or second chances!

“Nothing is too much for you, Leah. You deserve everything.”
Profile Image for Jaime Fiction Fangirls.
1,664 reviews153 followers
April 7, 2014
OMG this book! This has me questioning my judgement about men seriously. How was it that Stefan was such and incredible jerk and a super judgmental douche from the very beginning but, much like Leah, I still found myself incredibly attracted to him? I had high hopes for him once he started hanging out with Leah after Caleb and Abby's wedding but nope, still a complete jerk. Leah decides that she wants nothing to do with him ever again and I can't say I blame her.
Then a sudden twist of fate, as you might call it, pushes Leah and Stefan into spending a lot of time together. Clearly still attracted to each other they both fight moving beyond a friendship because they both know that sometimes attraction isn't enough and frankly neither trust Stefan enough to have matured enough.
Lots of stumbles and road blocks later and you really start to see how much Stefan is changing, even still, it's hard to trust if it's enough. I loved watching their friendship bloom into something more and just couldn't wait for them to finally get together as more than friends. I just couldn't figure out how it was going to happen.
There were some pretty hilarious parts in this book as well. One of my favorite funny parts came from something that Caleb's daughter, Madison, said to Leah and Stefan. You'll know it when you read it. It was hilarious!!
I like that the characters from the first book as well as the characters from the upcoming books all made appearances. Completely fitting for the name of the series Intertwined Hearts. I can't wait to read the next books in the series.

* I received an ARC from the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Book Junky Girls.
840 reviews33 followers
September 4, 2016
Our 4 Star Review

Leah's bet friend just got married and is going on her honeymoon, while they are away the grooms cousin, Stefen, is house sitting and Leah's been nominated to show him around town. He's hot and sexy too bad he's also a playboy, never hurts to look though right? But as they spend more time together and she sees behind his mask of indifference she wonders if he can reform his bad boy ways? Is she willing to find out and whats the price she has to pay if she's wrong?

Stefen is stuck in this town until things die down back home, and with nothing better he's going after that sexy Latina even when he was warned to stay away. When he begins to feel more for her than he's comfortable with he falls back on his old habits, but what happens when he can't shake that feelings he has for the feisty florist? Will it be to late to win her heart when she moves on after he already broke it once?

Leah's fiery personality and take charge attitude where fun to watch against an alpha male like Stefen who's used to getting things his way. Watching the banter between the to was fun and when they feel the more between them I loved the Duel POV's so you could understand where they were each at in their heads and in their hearts throughout. Watching Leah's struggles and growth throughout and Stefen growing up and changing way you get to see how perfect they could be for each other, as long as they let go of their insecurities.

Enjoyed the depth to the story and being able to see not only their pasts and where they are right now, but also where they could be in the future.
Profile Image for  Dani.
123 reviews19 followers
February 9, 2014
Leah Valdez is the sweet, trustworthy, family oriented girl. She did not come from money but as worked extremely hard to get where she is. What she is lacking is love. Stefan enters her life through her best friend Abby's new husband Caleb. Stefan and Caleb are cousins, who both grew up in a less than loving and caring environment. Caleb has overcome his issues and is happy. Stefan at first does not envy him. He and Leah have their week of fun and then he leaves her humiliating and breaking her heart. When Stefan is forced to come live in the care of Caleb a few months later, he is also forced to face the woman he cares a lot about, but also scared to fall for her. Leah's fierce loyalty to Abby comes in to help her when Abby is having a hard time giving Stefan the attention he needs.



Leah and Stefan start to work through their issues, but also want to protect their hearts from 2 different reasons.



I really enjoyed this read from Kimi Flores, it was sweet and heartwarming. I loved how she makes the two characters rebuild a relationship that was tainted with pain and then builds is on a foundation of trust and friendship. I love how Leah is not a weak character, she is sweet and sassy and gives Stefan exactly what he deserves!! You will love this read!!!



4 Stars!!!
Profile Image for Jane.
556 reviews24 followers
February 9, 2014
An exceptional Twist by Kimi Flores

4 Stars

All Stefan was interested in was a little fun while he was staying at his cousins house and even though Caleb had warned him not to be his usual self with Leah, he couldn’t keep away from her, she made him feel things he wasn’t used to feeling, and he didn’t like it one bit. Determined to get her out of his system he kept finding ways to spend time with her, but Leah wasn’t taking his crap and gave him a run for his money.

I always enjoy a good romance and when you throw in humour it’s all the more easy to read. Leah and Stefan definitely gave me a few laughs. Stefan’s uncontrollable and unwanted possessiveness amused me and Leah’s inner thoughts were often hilarious.

An Exceptional Twist is a busy story, it isn’t just a case of boy meets girl, they like each other but fight the urge for a while until they give in and end up living happily ever after. The journey is long and eventful with circumstances arising that leave serious doubt to their ability to have a future together.

One thing I regret is that I haven’t read book one in the series and wonder if perhaps I should have, and I probably will in the near future pick it up.

An enjoyable read.

Copy supplied for review



Profile Image for Karrie Mellott Puskas.
672 reviews6 followers
January 29, 2014
An Exceptional Read!
I was lucky enough to help Kimi out with last edits before she hit publish! This book is fantastic! Stefen and Leah have a great chemistry together! Leah wants to find that perfect man and keeps telling herself that Stefen is not that man but her heart can't seem to stop thinking about him! Stefen is just WOW! I fell in love with him after the first few chapters. He has an ego but he's just wow! He flirts to make Leah mad! Know that he can't touch her bc Caleb will kill him. Does that stop him? NOPE! 
This book is full of emotions! One minute I'm laughing, the next I'm yelling at my kindle (my sons thought I was nuts) then I was happy saying "Awww". So it has it all!
This is an exceptional follow up to "It Started With A Lima Bean". I am so happy that Kimi has Caleb, Abby, and Madison in this story! So extra bonus we get to see them together as newlyweds and as a family! Madison is funny in this book!!
This is one book you can not pass up! One click today!!!!
Profile Image for Rumpled Sheets Blog.
925 reviews70 followers
February 23, 2014
I love this series!!! A big time.

Leah and Stefen´s story is emotional and poignant. And at the same time it is a beautiful, witty and funny romance story.

I was enraptured from the start and could not put it down.

Leah and Stefen´s journey is consuming and captivating. Kimi developed them perfectly. She made them more real, believable and they leap from the pages into readers hearts just like Abby and Caleb.

Kimi´s writing style is captivating, descriptive and addictive. She has easily become one of my favorite authors.

I can’t praise this book and this series enough. They are exceptional.

An Exceptional Twist was simply gorgeous, well written story with kick ass plot. Absolute MUST READ for all romantics out there.

Can´t wait to read the third book in the series.



≧◔◡◔≦ 5 ✰ read ≧◉◡◉≦

>>>ARC received in exchange for an honest review<<<
Profile Image for Johnnie-Marie Howard.
1,136 reviews38 followers
February 3, 2014
I really enjoyed this story man did it have its ups and downs..I couldn't believe some of the events that happened and the characters additude towards them. This story showed when 2 ppl love each other they keep it apart from each other. I loved the 2 POVs with the main characters that was really great. I feel as if this story was about ppl finding love and keeping it no matter their background, but hey that a was a journey itself. Man I don't think Stefan could be any HOTTER !!! like really even his background story and the love he showed Leah had me crying for chapters lol. over all it was a good story, indidnt read the first one and didn't need to it had enough in it to catch me up:)

this is a must read!!

***I received this story for free in exchange for an honest review, see more of my review on my blog 2-5-14 http://jmhoward2007.blogspot.com ***
Profile Image for Nancy Byers.
Author 2 books8 followers
February 8, 2014
An Exceptional Twist

I adore Exceptional Twist. I love a story about a hot guy anytime but one of the things I love most is Leah's natural beauty that to me is unassuming and the way she stands up or *tries too* stand up at first is amazing. I love the stories when you see the girl resist a hot guy and make him work for it but keep him guessing! Stefan O.M.G is hot but he works for it! You will fall in love with Stefan and Leah too! You will not be able to resist Exceptional Twist! Get your copy today! I wish I could rate this 10 hot chocolates because girls let's face it Stefan is wicked HOT! Get your copy GO GO GO!
Profile Image for Audrey Harte.
Author 7 books254 followers
March 8, 2014
I seriously love this enchanting series by the very talented Kimi Flores! I feel like the characters are my friends, and she makes me want to be part of their fictional lives! The story about Stefen and Leah grabbed me pretty much right from the beginning. I wasn't sure exactly how things would pan out in the end, and I really didn't like Stefen for a while, but by the end, I was rooting for him. And I have to say that I totally teared up towards the end. My heart just ached. I want that, too! Really impressed with Kimi's second book and cannot WAIT to read the next two books in the series. Read Kimi's books! You won't be disappointed.
40 reviews
April 14, 2014
LOVED this book!!!

My favorite laugh out loud moment: "Mommy and Daddy aren't coming soon. They're humpin'in their bedroom." ....Stefen couldn't resist. "Sweetie, do you know what that means?" "Yeah." She nodded. "My friend Casey said it's when your parents are in the room with the door closed. You're supposed to leave them alone because they're makin' brothers or sisters by humpin'." Madison scrunched up her eyebrows questioningly. "I don't understand why they still do that, though. Mommy already has a baby in her belly." She shrugged. "Oh well, I'm going to watch TV. "

I laughed so hard. I loved the love story between Stefen and Leah.

I am so excited for the next installments!
Profile Image for Kylee.
185 reviews4 followers
August 11, 2016
Ahhhh...gotta love a good romance that the main characters hate to love each other! Leah and Stefen definitely sizzled when they were around each other. There was so much tension between the two that when they could no longer fight each other, they gave the reader something to fan themselves about! Leah appears to be the type that has caution when it comes to playboys like Stefen, and she should. Stefen seems to like being the flirt, as he's just not too sure he wants to be tied down.
Definitely some page turning twists to be ready for! It will have you doing a double take! Definite angst and plenty of spice in this book!
Profile Image for Chrys.
687 reviews
February 1, 2014
Who knew that the love and kindhearted nature of a beautiful, feisty woman would change an arrogant,egotistical, gorgeous man from not believing in love and marriage to one that secretly deeply longs for it with her.

After shattering her heart, Stefen took what he wanted and walked away. Not because he was heartless, although it came across as that, he was scared of his feelings for the beautiful Leah.
Circumstances throw them together again and with her forgiving heart they continue on a journey of friendship, secretly falling in love with each other.
Profile Image for Ronda Bearden.
354 reviews7 followers
February 1, 2014
I received this as an ARC to read and review!

I will tell you this I thought the first book was great, this one will blow you away! There are just no words to tell you what a great book this is. I am not one that branches out very easy to new authors, but let me tell you that I was not disappointed at all with Kimi as a writer. Kimi will be added as one of my favorites.

Leah and Stefan's story was so touching not the story you would expect form most romance stories which is one thing that really drawls you in.

Looking forward to reading book 3!
Author 2 books22 followers
February 5, 2014
Leah and Stefen had sparks flying every time they were together. There was delicious tension until finally they ignited into a sizzling hot fire!
Stefen was a flame Leah was weary of getting too close to but boy could that sassy woman handle him! I loved it!
Some great twists that make the book very hard to put down and lots of laugh out loud moments!
I loved seeing more if caleb and Abby too!
Kimi Flores writing is truly something special!
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