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Love in the City #5
Challenged by You
Paige Abram never faces a problem she can’t solve until her high school sweetheart comes back into her life, and she’s bombarded with memories of their relationship. His presence is almost suffocating, but he’s still just as beautiful as she remembers.
His heart beat differently after its first love.
The moment Drake Wilkins sees her again, the numbness he’s felt since he walked away disappears. But she’s not the same girl he fell in love with back then. She’s colder, not as easy going; she’s a complete stranger now.
Her heart nearly quit after its first loss.
When a funeral has them returning to their hometown, a secret she’s kept from him all these years is revealed. She expects him to push her away but he doesn’t; he tests her just like when they were kids.
Their hearts resuscitate, but in the city, their love will face its biggest challenge of all: survival.
His heart beat differently after its first love.
The moment Drake Wilkins sees her again, the numbness he’s felt since he walked away disappears. But she’s not the same girl he fell in love with back then. She’s colder, not as easy going; she’s a complete stranger now.
Her heart nearly quit after its first loss.
When a funeral has them returning to their hometown, a secret she’s kept from him all these years is revealed. She expects him to push her away but he doesn’t; he tests her just like when they were kids.
Their hearts resuscitate, but in the city, their love will face its biggest challenge of all: survival.
Unknown Binding
About the author
Steph Nuss
14 books326 followersSteph Nuss was born and raised in rural Kansas, where she currently resides with her Labrador son, Gauge. She grew up with a passion for reading and writing. When she’s not immersed into the land of fiction, she enjoys listening to music, watching movies and reruns of her favorite shows, and hanging out with her family and friends. She also has a bachelor’s degree in psychology that she’ll never use…unless she’s profiling her characters of course.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
October 29, 2026
4🌟 | 3🌶️
First-love romances always get me, especially when two people get a second chance after years apart.
Paige and Drake had so much history, and seeing them get another chance at a love they never quite left behind made their story easy to get invested in.
Paige’s journey gave me a better understanding of her, and I felt for everything she’d been dealing with. Drake had his own feelings to work through, and watching these two figure out whether they could move past their past made their romance even more meaningful. Their story had me smiling one moment and feeling emotional the next.
This was one of the more emotional books in the series, and I appreciated seeing both characters grow as they found their way back to each other. Their journey felt worth it, and I was happy with how things came together.
I'm glad I got to experience their journey, and I'm looking forward to spending more time in this series.
~~~~
A sincere thank you to Steph Nuss and The Author Agency for the Copy! 🥰📚
I’m so grateful for the read. As always, all thoughts and opinions are completely my own. ✨
First-love romances always get me, especially when two people get a second chance after years apart.
Paige and Drake had so much history, and seeing them get another chance at a love they never quite left behind made their story easy to get invested in.
Paige’s journey gave me a better understanding of her, and I felt for everything she’d been dealing with. Drake had his own feelings to work through, and watching these two figure out whether they could move past their past made their romance even more meaningful. Their story had me smiling one moment and feeling emotional the next.
This was one of the more emotional books in the series, and I appreciated seeing both characters grow as they found their way back to each other. Their journey felt worth it, and I was happy with how things came together.
I'm glad I got to experience their journey, and I'm looking forward to spending more time in this series.
~~~~
A sincere thank you to Steph Nuss and The Author Agency for the Copy! 🥰📚
I’m so grateful for the read. As always, all thoughts and opinions are completely my own. ✨
March 19, 2015
Favorite Quotes:
Why are you letting some stupid policy get in your way? I think you owe it to your lady box, which hasn't seen any male action since I've known you, to break the damn rules for once. You need to stand up for her and get some.
I'm probably going to hurt you again someday... And you're probably going to hurt me. But I will keep coming back to you because you're worth the pain. You matter. Who we are together matters.
I wish I had a great speech prepared for you but I don't. All I have is me, and all I want is you.
My Review:
I have read a few of the previous books in this series and have always enjoyed Ms. Nuss's unique characters and interesting storylines. Told in dual POV, which is my favorite, Challenged by You is an angsty second chance romance featuring loss, grief, and long-held secrets. Thankfully there were also close and interesting friendships to ensure that levity was sprinkled in amongst the tragedy and sorrow. Ms. Nuss has a highly descriptive style that had me almost believing I could smell and taste the food.
Why are you letting some stupid policy get in your way? I think you owe it to your lady box, which hasn't seen any male action since I've known you, to break the damn rules for once. You need to stand up for her and get some.
I'm probably going to hurt you again someday... And you're probably going to hurt me. But I will keep coming back to you because you're worth the pain. You matter. Who we are together matters.
I wish I had a great speech prepared for you but I don't. All I have is me, and all I want is you.
My Review:
I have read a few of the previous books in this series and have always enjoyed Ms. Nuss's unique characters and interesting storylines. Told in dual POV, which is my favorite, Challenged by You is an angsty second chance romance featuring loss, grief, and long-held secrets. Thankfully there were also close and interesting friendships to ensure that levity was sprinkled in amongst the tragedy and sorrow. Ms. Nuss has a highly descriptive style that had me almost believing I could smell and taste the food.
September 9, 2016
5 Stars!
This author is absolutely brilliant and I've been a huge fan since the first in this series. I swear as this series continues, the books continue to get better and better, making me fall harder and harder with each new couple. Sure this can be read as a standalone but why spoil the other books in the series for yourself? Grab the whole series and start with book one because I promise once you start you won't be able to put the books down.
This book right here may just be the BEST of the series as we get to know Paige and Drake a little better. I loved this book. It as sweet, sexy, passionate, and had a beautiful second chance romance that was years in the making. This author has a knack for making you swoon, smile hard and fall in love throughout her books while making you shed some tears. You will find yourself laughing along with the characters and totally falling in love.
Meet Paige and Drake... two people who were once in love only to have life throw them a curveball. They were high school sweethearts with stars in their eyes. Sometimes life gives us a second chance and that is what they have been offered... but will they take the chance? And what happens when the past creeps back in? And what about the old feelings that still linger years later? But first, secrets must be revealed and the truth must be told.
Can these two find a way to the love they once had? Will Drake accept Paige and the past she cannot change? And most importantly, will they take the time to build what they once had and find their happy ending? Be prepared for smiles, laughs and tears. Their story was beautifully written. I did not want their story to end... at all but alas it did. I am excited to get the next in this captivating series and of course play catch up with the good ol' gang.
I highly recommend this book and series.
Review Post---> http://reneeentress.blogspot.com/2016...
This author is absolutely brilliant and I've been a huge fan since the first in this series. I swear as this series continues, the books continue to get better and better, making me fall harder and harder with each new couple. Sure this can be read as a standalone but why spoil the other books in the series for yourself? Grab the whole series and start with book one because I promise once you start you won't be able to put the books down.
This book right here may just be the BEST of the series as we get to know Paige and Drake a little better. I loved this book. It as sweet, sexy, passionate, and had a beautiful second chance romance that was years in the making. This author has a knack for making you swoon, smile hard and fall in love throughout her books while making you shed some tears. You will find yourself laughing along with the characters and totally falling in love.
Meet Paige and Drake... two people who were once in love only to have life throw them a curveball. They were high school sweethearts with stars in their eyes. Sometimes life gives us a second chance and that is what they have been offered... but will they take the chance? And what happens when the past creeps back in? And what about the old feelings that still linger years later? But first, secrets must be revealed and the truth must be told.
Can these two find a way to the love they once had? Will Drake accept Paige and the past she cannot change? And most importantly, will they take the time to build what they once had and find their happy ending? Be prepared for smiles, laughs and tears. Their story was beautifully written. I did not want their story to end... at all but alas it did. I am excited to get the next in this captivating series and of course play catch up with the good ol' gang.
I highly recommend this book and series.
Review Post---> http://reneeentress.blogspot.com/2016...
November 8, 2026
OMG this book was so good. I picked it up early on a cold Saturday morning and couldn’t put it down. This book drew me in from the prologue and had me feeling all sorts of emotions as Paige and Drake connected and rediscovered each other after 11 years apart. The emotions just flew off the page and into my heart that I actually found myself crying with Paige and cheering on the couple as they reunited. Challenged by You is Book 5 in Steph Nuss’s Love in the City series and follows the story of Paige and Drake, high school lovers that were torn apart by a secret that has changed Paige into someone Drake doesn’t even recognize. The pain and grief Paige faces feels so real as you read this book that you just have to read it all the way through. Kudos Steph Nuss – this was a fabulous read. While I haven’t read all the other books in this series, this story was easy to read as a standalone.
Steph Nuss
Steph Nuss
October 28, 2026
This is the fifth book in this impressive series, and this is Paige and Drake’s journey.
Paige and Drake were high school sweethearts, until he walked away. Now years later Paige and Drake are back in their hometown for a funeral, and memories resurface, but she is not the easy-going girl she used to be, she is cold and a complete stranger. What will happen when Drake finds out about Paige’s secret?
This is a well written easy to read story, with loss, grief, secrets, angst, intrigue, suspense, engaging and realistic characters, tragedy, second chances, revelations, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, heartfelt, and emotional page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this author in the future.
Paige and Drake were high school sweethearts, until he walked away. Now years later Paige and Drake are back in their hometown for a funeral, and memories resurface, but she is not the easy-going girl she used to be, she is cold and a complete stranger. What will happen when Drake finds out about Paige’s secret?
This is a well written easy to read story, with loss, grief, secrets, angst, intrigue, suspense, engaging and realistic characters, tragedy, second chances, revelations, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, heartfelt, and emotional page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this author in the future.
October 25, 2026
An angsty second chance romance that hits right on the feels. I really felt so many emotions reading this. As for the main characters they were high school sweethearts who go through a lot and to find their way back to each other to get their second chance there's a lot that happens. But nonetheless when they get through things together it comes together beautifully for them. Paige and Drake's story is a heartfelt emotional read. It is one of those kinds of story's that really sits with you long after you finish it. Thank you so much to the author and author agency for a copy of this. All opinions are my own and freely given.
October 26, 2026
Paige & Drake
This second chance romance is going to change your brain chemistry. Challenged By You starts off by showing the MCs breaking up. Drake is going off to college to play football and Paige just lets him go. & then she loses the one thing they created. This heartfelt second chance seeps through the pages. You can tell just how much Paige wants to tell Drake but I know she's scared of what might happen when he finally knows the truth.
Overall, this gut wrenching romance is going to keep your heart on a string until the very end. I really enjoyed the character growth, the friend group and overall vibe of this book.
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily reviewing.
This second chance romance is going to change your brain chemistry. Challenged By You starts off by showing the MCs breaking up. Drake is going off to college to play football and Paige just lets him go. & then she loses the one thing they created. This heartfelt second chance seeps through the pages. You can tell just how much Paige wants to tell Drake but I know she's scared of what might happen when he finally knows the truth.
Overall, this gut wrenching romance is going to keep your heart on a string until the very end. I really enjoyed the character growth, the friend group and overall vibe of this book.
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily reviewing.
October 26, 2026
Challenged by You is a beautifully written emotional second chance romance about two people who were high school sweethearts - first loves - and life threw them a gigantic curveball and their story ended. Years later, they are back together for a funeral, and the feelings are still there, but Paige has been keeping a big secret, and she is terrified that once Drake finds out what it is, things will be different. Very emotional - you'll laugh, you'll cry, and you'll definitely root for this couple to figure it out!
October 21, 2026
I thoroughly enjoyed this! It was a really emotional read, with a ton of fun banter and laughs.
August 13, 2016
There are books you read and they entertain you, they distract you for a few hours and all is good with the world. But there are books that affect you in a profound way, books you can relate to the characters, the story or both, they take you to new heights, affecting your heart in a way you'll never forget them. Challenged by You is one of those books.
This is a story with plenty of heart, one in which you'll be able to feel the raw pain Paige is guarding inside herself, the secret she's been keeping from most everyone, including the only man she's ever loved.
Although separated right out of high school, Paige and Drake's love is still alive and more powerful than ever when they meet again, but will their love be able to survive the secret strangling Paige's mind, body and soul day in and day out?
This is a superb new installment of the Love in the City series, I'd dare to say is the best book of the series yet. The journey of these two characters will make you cry, will make you laugh, you will cheer for them, and you will swoon a little bit once you get to know Drake Wilkins. The author did an outstanding job bringing this story to life, the honesty of her writing and her ability to touch on a delicate subject to some people, captured a realistic journey told beautifully.
This was a very emotional read for me, there were some aspects of it that I felt a deep connection with, it's a story that brought wounds to the surface that will never heal completely. But I embraced every word, every emotion, because I'm convinced that every book that touches our soul the way this one touched mine, always brings lessons to be learned.
This is a story with plenty of heart, one in which you'll be able to feel the raw pain Paige is guarding inside herself, the secret she's been keeping from most everyone, including the only man she's ever loved.
Although separated right out of high school, Paige and Drake's love is still alive and more powerful than ever when they meet again, but will their love be able to survive the secret strangling Paige's mind, body and soul day in and day out?
This is a superb new installment of the Love in the City series, I'd dare to say is the best book of the series yet. The journey of these two characters will make you cry, will make you laugh, you will cheer for them, and you will swoon a little bit once you get to know Drake Wilkins. The author did an outstanding job bringing this story to life, the honesty of her writing and her ability to touch on a delicate subject to some people, captured a realistic journey told beautifully.
This was a very emotional read for me, there were some aspects of it that I felt a deep connection with, it's a story that brought wounds to the surface that will never heal completely. But I embraced every word, every emotion, because I'm convinced that every book that touches our soul the way this one touched mine, always brings lessons to be learned.
August 22, 2016
Challenged by You is the fifth book in the Love in City series by Author Steph Nuss. This book tells the story of Paige and Drake two childhood sweethearts who allow each other to go their separate ways at high school graduation. When Drake walks out of Paige’s life she’s forced to bury her feelings for the only boy she’s ever loved and face her current reality.
Years later Drake walks back into Paige’s life and forces her to truly evaluate the decisions that she has made. She knows she needs to let him into her life but that would cause her to reveal the skeletons in her closet.
We all have skeletons but Paige’s affect more than just her. Is she strong enough to do that? Will Drake accept the changed woman that stands before him when he left the innocent girl behind? Or has her past damaged her?
Paige and Drake's story is a tough story to read. I'm not going to lie to you. Don't think that you can go to your doctor's office for a routine check in and sneak some reading in. You will be crying when you least expect it. The older couple sitting across from you will be staring at you wondering what the hell is wrong with you. Not that I am speaking from experience or anything...
If you are looking for a book that will cause you to cry and I mean UGLY cry this is your book. My heart was an emotional mess while reading this book. Was it worth it? 100% yes and I don’t generally enjoy books that gut me.
See the whole review on 9/1 at http://bedknobsandbookbabes.blogspot.com
September 5, 2016
Oh wow! Major feels with this one. I have loved every book in this series and Challenged by You is by far the most moving and touching book of the series thus far.
Paige was a one of the most compelling characters that I have ever had the pleasure of reading. Where as in other books her actions may have come across as harsh and deceitful, the author did such a tremendous job of writing her story in a way that I completely understood where she was coming from and understood why she did the things that she did.
While I liked the character of Drake, I did question some of his actions in the beginning. When I really sat down and thought about it after I finished the book, I began to realize his responses were very real and truly how most men would honestly respond to such a powerful and vulnerable situation. It was a very refreshing change of pace for a character to see characters experience such honesty and susceptibility as a reader.
Nuss did a tremendous job of balancing the worlds between fact and fiction in one of the most heartfelt and emotionally gripping reads that has ever graced my reading device.
Paige was a one of the most compelling characters that I have ever had the pleasure of reading. Where as in other books her actions may have come across as harsh and deceitful, the author did such a tremendous job of writing her story in a way that I completely understood where she was coming from and understood why she did the things that she did.
While I liked the character of Drake, I did question some of his actions in the beginning. When I really sat down and thought about it after I finished the book, I began to realize his responses were very real and truly how most men would honestly respond to such a powerful and vulnerable situation. It was a very refreshing change of pace for a character to see characters experience such honesty and susceptibility as a reader.
Nuss did a tremendous job of balancing the worlds between fact and fiction in one of the most heartfelt and emotionally gripping reads that has ever graced my reading device.
February 21, 2015
It has taken me a few days from finishing this book to attempt to write a review just because I don't know how to put everything that this book put me through into the words that would do it justice. It was everything I have come to expect in a Steph Nuss book and more. I was not overly fond of Paige in the previous books. I know she was a good friend, but there was always something that just struck me in her that wasn't completely honest and open. In this book, her book, you find out why. And let me say I have a whole new respect for her. Drake, well, he is a hottie, who was her high school boyfriend, and suddenly reappears in her life bringing her past squarely into her present. I am not going to go into anymore details to not spoil the book. This book was just everything! It was crying and laughing, love and loss, beauty and ugly, family and friends. The author broke our hearts and then put them back together so beautifully. If you haven't started this series yet, please do. You will love them so much!
September 7, 2016
5 star
If you have not read the below I would recommend reading those books(s) first
Wanted by You (Love in the City, #1)
Fantasized by You (Love in the City, #2)
Pleasured by You (Love in the City, #3)
Surprised by You (Love in the City, #3.5)
Cherished by You (Love in the City, #4)
This is Paige and Drake’s story. What happens when you come face to face with your high school sweetheart? Both of them have changed. Both have closed off their hearts. Can they reconnect? Or is this just a bittersweet goodbye? Secrets will be revealed that change everything but will it pull them closer together or further apart? Can they try again for a newer and better relationship or will the past ruin everything?
I was able to connect with the characters and the story was a great read. I recommend this book and can’t wait for the next story in this series.
If you have not read the below I would recommend reading those books(s) first
Wanted by You (Love in the City, #1)
Fantasized by You (Love in the City, #2)
Pleasured by You (Love in the City, #3)
Surprised by You (Love in the City, #3.5)
Cherished by You (Love in the City, #4)
This is Paige and Drake’s story. What happens when you come face to face with your high school sweetheart? Both of them have changed. Both have closed off their hearts. Can they reconnect? Or is this just a bittersweet goodbye? Secrets will be revealed that change everything but will it pull them closer together or further apart? Can they try again for a newer and better relationship or will the past ruin everything?
I was able to connect with the characters and the story was a great read. I recommend this book and can’t wait for the next story in this series.
September 7, 2016
5 star
If you have not read the below I would recommend reading those books(s) first
Wanted by You (Love in the City, #1)
Fantasized by You (Love in the City, #2)
Pleasured by You (Love in the City, #3)
Surprised by You (Love in the City, #3.5)
Cherished by You (Love in the City, #4)
This is Paige and Drake’s story. What happens when you come face to face with your high school sweetheart? Both of them have changed. Both have closed off their hearts. Can they reconnect? Or is this just a bittersweet goodbye? Secrets will be revealed that change everything but will it pull them closer together or further apart? Can they try again for a newer and better relationship or will the past ruin everything?
I was able to connect with the characters and the story was a great read. I recommend this book and can’t wait for the next story in this series.
If you have not read the below I would recommend reading those books(s) first
Wanted by You (Love in the City, #1)
Fantasized by You (Love in the City, #2)
Pleasured by You (Love in the City, #3)
Surprised by You (Love in the City, #3.5)
Cherished by You (Love in the City, #4)
This is Paige and Drake’s story. What happens when you come face to face with your high school sweetheart? Both of them have changed. Both have closed off their hearts. Can they reconnect? Or is this just a bittersweet goodbye? Secrets will be revealed that change everything but will it pull them closer together or further apart? Can they try again for a newer and better relationship or will the past ruin everything?
I was able to connect with the characters and the story was a great read. I recommend this book and can’t wait for the next story in this series.
April 8, 2015
How am I supposed to review what I just read? I'm going to try my best, but the words are failing me. It's been a long time since I read a book where I ugly cried, multiple times! But that exactly what happened during the course of this story. Know what else happened? I laughed out loud! In the same book! Believe it or not, I swooned too. What an incredible job Steph did with Challenged By You. I could not have loved Drake more than I did. And Paige? WOW! That girl has more strength in her than two grown men combined. I love a good second chance romance, and this one was incredible. I got all the feels while reading this book. And I do mean ALL. THE. FEELS. This was hands down my favorite of the series so far. WONDERFUL read!
Happy reading!
Happy reading!
August 13, 2016
You are definitely going to want to read this. I just finished and it was all that and more. I've been waiting for Paige's story since the first time she showed up in the series. I knew there had to be a reason for her coldness towards her friend's pregnant and her overall cold demeanor. And I wasn't wrong. This has easily become my favorite story in the series. It deals with a heavy subject that I haven't seen anyone else write about. I definitely shed a tear for Paige and Drake. Beautifully written and you will not want to put it down until you finish. Definitely look for the rest of the series. Each book can be read as standalones but are so much better when you read each together since the characters are the same throughout the series.
September 17, 2014
Be prepared to fall hard in love with this couple.
This has become my favorite book in this series by Author Steph Nuss!
Paige & Drake had my heart breaking for them!
Their love story totally hit me hard.
Seriously these two characters show us what it is to LOVE hardcore no matter what happens in life. And your love is not always what you think or thought it was.
Just wow! I was aching, crying, falling then climbing with emotions reading their story. Just beautifully done.
And of course the whole gang are back and sooo having me crack up with their smart mouths and antics! Also loved how they are there for each other and such a tight knit of friends.
The guys had me cracking up with their baby skills or lack thereof!
Get this book because it is full of characters that you will fall in love with and that will stick with you for a lifetime.
This book can be read as a standalone like the rest in the series.
Go 1 click! It's a must read!
**ARC kindly provided by author in exchange for an honest review***
5 Cherries Popped
September 6, 2022
OMG! By far my FAVORITE! I loved the whole series buy this one....this one hands down blew me away!
Challenged by you is the story of Paige and Drake! Their story is so intense! The minute I started the prologue I was reeled in. I would walk away to tend to my family or get things done and ended up right back in the story.
Paige and Drake's love and their story ripped my heart out, made me laugh and also pieced it back together glowing! I refuse to give an inkling of the story in this review because it needs to be read and treasured with every word, line, and paragraph of their story! DEFINITE MUST READ. I will feel sorry for anyone that does not pick Challenged by You up and experience the feels of it! Bravo to Steph Nuss for an AMAZING series! I can not wait to continue the journey with Love
In the City!
Challenged by you is the story of Paige and Drake! Their story is so intense! The minute I started the prologue I was reeled in. I would walk away to tend to my family or get things done and ended up right back in the story.
Paige and Drake's love and their story ripped my heart out, made me laugh and also pieced it back together glowing! I refuse to give an inkling of the story in this review because it needs to be read and treasured with every word, line, and paragraph of their story! DEFINITE MUST READ. I will feel sorry for anyone that does not pick Challenged by You up and experience the feels of it! Bravo to Steph Nuss for an AMAZING series! I can not wait to continue the journey with Love
In the City!
September 17, 2017
Awesome book. Loved the storyline and the longer length to actually resolve all the issues.
January 19, 2017
Another great booklll
Oh boy!!! I cried while reading Paige's story. So sad what she went through. I couldn't read it fast enough. Great job!!!
Oh boy!!! I cried while reading Paige's story. So sad what she went through. I couldn't read it fast enough. Great job!!!
May 14, 2014
This book was heartbreakingly beautiful. I have been anxiously awaiting Paige's book. I have read every single book in this series and always cover to cover in one sitting. I love Steph's writing style and have fallen in love with every character in the Love in the City gang.
Challenged by you is the story of Paige and Drake. Drake is new to the gang, but not new to Paige. He is a huge part of her past, one that she isn't so sure she wants to reconnect with. Seeing Drake brings up pain that no one wants to experience once, must less twice.
Paige Abram is the one character I couldn't wait to find out more about. Based on what I know from the previous books; she's sweet, smart, has a great career and is very guarded. I NEEDED to know her secrets. I had to know what was going on with her because I knew it had to be something big. I just wasn't expecting how big. My heart broke for her. Tears. I'm talking ugly cry, can't see my kindle, crocodile tears. Now I get it. Now it all makes sense.
Drake Wilkins has become my new favorite guy in the group. I loved everything about him. He was sweet, sexy, and just an all around good guy. Drake was Paige's high school sweetheart. They broke up when he left for college. Drake hadn't seen Paige in years, not until he suddenly becomes her boss.
I loved the dynamic between Paige and Drake. Their chemistry was off the charts and they just belong together. Everyone has that one person that means so much to you. Even if you haven't seen them in years, when you do see them, it was like no time had passed. While that was kind of the case here, there was also a big elephant in the room that Drake knew nothing about. I enjoyed watching their relationship play out. Yes, it was heartbreaking at times. But seeing how both handled it made me love both of them even more. A journey of a thousand miles begins with one step. Paige and Drake both needed to take that one step. They needed to see that even though something so tragic had occurred, you can still move forward.
The thing I love most about this series is that each book deals with a real issue. There are people out there that deal with these challenges on a daily basis. Steph Nuss did a great job of showing what it is like to live with these challenges. She shows that while they are a challenge, they can be over come. It give you hope and it gives you faith, that even though life is hard, there is a rainbow at the end of the journey. You can live happily every after.
I highly recommend this series. While each book is technically a stand alone, as each book is about a different couple, I highly recommend you read them in order. Otherwise you will be a little lost, and you will have a lot of spoilers. If you haven't read this series, do it. You can thank me later.
Challenged by you is the story of Paige and Drake. Drake is new to the gang, but not new to Paige. He is a huge part of her past, one that she isn't so sure she wants to reconnect with. Seeing Drake brings up pain that no one wants to experience once, must less twice.
Paige Abram is the one character I couldn't wait to find out more about. Based on what I know from the previous books; she's sweet, smart, has a great career and is very guarded. I NEEDED to know her secrets. I had to know what was going on with her because I knew it had to be something big. I just wasn't expecting how big. My heart broke for her. Tears. I'm talking ugly cry, can't see my kindle, crocodile tears. Now I get it. Now it all makes sense.
Drake Wilkins has become my new favorite guy in the group. I loved everything about him. He was sweet, sexy, and just an all around good guy. Drake was Paige's high school sweetheart. They broke up when he left for college. Drake hadn't seen Paige in years, not until he suddenly becomes her boss.
I loved the dynamic between Paige and Drake. Their chemistry was off the charts and they just belong together. Everyone has that one person that means so much to you. Even if you haven't seen them in years, when you do see them, it was like no time had passed. While that was kind of the case here, there was also a big elephant in the room that Drake knew nothing about. I enjoyed watching their relationship play out. Yes, it was heartbreaking at times. But seeing how both handled it made me love both of them even more. A journey of a thousand miles begins with one step. Paige and Drake both needed to take that one step. They needed to see that even though something so tragic had occurred, you can still move forward.
The thing I love most about this series is that each book deals with a real issue. There are people out there that deal with these challenges on a daily basis. Steph Nuss did a great job of showing what it is like to live with these challenges. She shows that while they are a challenge, they can be over come. It give you hope and it gives you faith, that even though life is hard, there is a rainbow at the end of the journey. You can live happily every after.
I highly recommend this series. While each book is technically a stand alone, as each book is about a different couple, I highly recommend you read them in order. Otherwise you will be a little lost, and you will have a lot of spoilers. If you haven't read this series, do it. You can thank me later.
February 24, 2017
Love the series!!!! ready for more
July 8, 2014
*I received a copy of this book from Southern Bell Promotions in exchange for a fair and honest review.*
****This review might contain a few spoilers, but without them, I don’t feel the review is complete.***
This book is absolutely beautiful. It’s breathtaking and has a darkness looming from the first page you read. It’s hard to read in parts and to me, extremely painful in others. The best part was the care and knowledge that Steph put into this book. The way that she chose to write this story really shows what type of author, as well as person, that Steph is.
SIDS is something that every single parent fears and others, sadly, have to experience it. She didn’t sugarcoat the facts, nor did she write them with a lack of knowledge. One of the parts that I think was written perfectly was the fear Paige felt towards having more children, the what if’s, the paranoia, and most importantly, the over protection.
Let’s talk happy stuff now. The gang is all back together – who can’t help to be excited to read about the other characters. I love reading about each couple’s continuation and other couples’ early starts. As usual, Steph does a phenomenal job carrying over their stories onto the next book she is writing and doesn’t miss a beat. One of the best and funniest scenes is the babysitting scene. It will leave you laughing out loud, or leave you trying not to laugh out loud because you’re reading at work, either way, it’s pretty funny! There is definitely not a lack of detail and descriptions to leave you wanting or leave you questioning what’s going on, what the scene looks like, or what they are wearing.
I can’t express enough praise towards Steph and the way she wrote this story. I never expected Paige’s story to unfold the way it did. It also lets you in on just how tough of a character Paige is – especially when she is up against her bosses.
While this is a “stand-alone” I don’t suggest to just pick up this book and read it without reading the others. Each book focuses on a “main” couple but the story starts at book one and continues on with each addition. I suggest you start with book one and continue on until you’ve finished with this story – then wait patiently for the next one. You won’t regret it - you’ll be begging Steph to write a little faster.
****This review might contain a few spoilers, but without them, I don’t feel the review is complete.***
This book is absolutely beautiful. It’s breathtaking and has a darkness looming from the first page you read. It’s hard to read in parts and to me, extremely painful in others. The best part was the care and knowledge that Steph put into this book. The way that she chose to write this story really shows what type of author, as well as person, that Steph is.
SIDS is something that every single parent fears and others, sadly, have to experience it. She didn’t sugarcoat the facts, nor did she write them with a lack of knowledge. One of the parts that I think was written perfectly was the fear Paige felt towards having more children, the what if’s, the paranoia, and most importantly, the over protection.
Let’s talk happy stuff now. The gang is all back together – who can’t help to be excited to read about the other characters. I love reading about each couple’s continuation and other couples’ early starts. As usual, Steph does a phenomenal job carrying over their stories onto the next book she is writing and doesn’t miss a beat. One of the best and funniest scenes is the babysitting scene. It will leave you laughing out loud, or leave you trying not to laugh out loud because you’re reading at work, either way, it’s pretty funny! There is definitely not a lack of detail and descriptions to leave you wanting or leave you questioning what’s going on, what the scene looks like, or what they are wearing.
I can’t express enough praise towards Steph and the way she wrote this story. I never expected Paige’s story to unfold the way it did. It also lets you in on just how tough of a character Paige is – especially when she is up against her bosses.
While this is a “stand-alone” I don’t suggest to just pick up this book and read it without reading the others. Each book focuses on a “main” couple but the story starts at book one and continues on with each addition. I suggest you start with book one and continue on until you’ve finished with this story – then wait patiently for the next one. You won’t regret it - you’ll be begging Steph to write a little faster.
September 7, 2016
Find this review and more at Ramblings From This Chick
Challenged By You is the fifth book in the Love in the City series by Steph Nuss. I have really enjoyed each book in the series, and I couldn't wait to finally get Paige's story. This book was such an emotional read, and I could not put it down! I have to say that the last book in the series is my favorite, but Challenged By You might just be my new favorite.
Paige and Drake had the perfect relationship, until everything changed in an instant. When Drake headed to college, he left Paige behind at their high school for another year never knowing that he was leaving behind more than just the girl he loved. Years have passed without them speaking, but when they are suddenly forced back together they both realize that the past has a way of holding onto you. Drake is determined to get Paige back, but Paige is holding a secret that could change everything when revealed.
I loved these characters, and I felt emotionally invested in them right away. Paige is known in the past books for being a bit uptight and straight-laced. But in her past she was quite different, and I really enjoyed getting to know that side of her. So much had happened, and it wasn't hard to see how she had turned into the woman that she was. The one thing that had never changed though were the feelings between Drake and Paige. Drake had thought he was doing the right thing by letting Paige go, but years later he knew it was a mistake and the biggest regret of his life. Luckily for them both, the chemistry and connection was just as strong as it had always been and they were able to move forward after everything had happened.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book, just as I have with every other book in the series. Steph Nuss is a fantastic writer and I really love her stories. This series is filled with sweet and sexy times, love, friendship and tons of emotion. It is one of my favorite series, and I think fans of both the contemporary and new adult genres will love them. If you haven't read these yet, you are definitely missing out and I highly recommend giving them a go.
**ARC Provided by Southern Belle Promotions**
Challenged By You is the fifth book in the Love in the City series by Steph Nuss. I have really enjoyed each book in the series, and I couldn't wait to finally get Paige's story. This book was such an emotional read, and I could not put it down! I have to say that the last book in the series is my favorite, but Challenged By You might just be my new favorite.
Paige and Drake had the perfect relationship, until everything changed in an instant. When Drake headed to college, he left Paige behind at their high school for another year never knowing that he was leaving behind more than just the girl he loved. Years have passed without them speaking, but when they are suddenly forced back together they both realize that the past has a way of holding onto you. Drake is determined to get Paige back, but Paige is holding a secret that could change everything when revealed.
I loved these characters, and I felt emotionally invested in them right away. Paige is known in the past books for being a bit uptight and straight-laced. But in her past she was quite different, and I really enjoyed getting to know that side of her. So much had happened, and it wasn't hard to see how she had turned into the woman that she was. The one thing that had never changed though were the feelings between Drake and Paige. Drake had thought he was doing the right thing by letting Paige go, but years later he knew it was a mistake and the biggest regret of his life. Luckily for them both, the chemistry and connection was just as strong as it had always been and they were able to move forward after everything had happened.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book, just as I have with every other book in the series. Steph Nuss is a fantastic writer and I really love her stories. This series is filled with sweet and sexy times, love, friendship and tons of emotion. It is one of my favorite series, and I think fans of both the contemporary and new adult genres will love them. If you haven't read these yet, you are definitely missing out and I highly recommend giving them a go.
**ARC Provided by Southern Belle Promotions**
August 31, 2016
☆☆☆☆☆ 5 STAR REVIEW ☆☆☆☆☆
With every book from this series you will find yourself making each and every single one your all time favorite, however this book for me has touch a part of my heart that has made a permanent imprint.
We all know Paige Abram as the strong one from the group, but deep down we don't know the pain she has been holding for the past eleven years. A pain no one can imagine only the people that have experience this horrific pain. As we read her story we understand the reason she is the way she is and we will change the way we see her. As for the other part of this equation Mr. Drake Wilkins has a deep connection with her that one one knows not even him. Besides having a history of being their first love, there is another secret that has them bound for life. Unfortunately he has no idea until one day the secret comes to the surface, making her pain and nightmare to be relive in her in front of her friends and the man that still has a hold on her broken heart.
We learned to love this group of people that love one another with such a passion they will do anything and everything for one another, making you forget this are fictional characters. You do not want to miss this incredible, unforgettable, lovable story. As always I can't wait to see what is in store from this series that I got to love with each book I read.
As a reader I can identify with Paige pain, the way this story takes you into her story it will have you ugly crying and leaving you with a heartache. This story will have you thanking your lucky starts you don't ever have to face what Paige has gone through. I also want to thank this incredible author for shining a light into this heartbreaking situation some of us had suffered. The pain that it was describe is so real, and how it was handle made it perfect. Thank you from the bottom of my broken heart.
This book was gifted by the author in exchange for an honest review.
https://www.facebook.com/Bookaholican...
With every book from this series you will find yourself making each and every single one your all time favorite, however this book for me has touch a part of my heart that has made a permanent imprint.
We all know Paige Abram as the strong one from the group, but deep down we don't know the pain she has been holding for the past eleven years. A pain no one can imagine only the people that have experience this horrific pain. As we read her story we understand the reason she is the way she is and we will change the way we see her. As for the other part of this equation Mr. Drake Wilkins has a deep connection with her that one one knows not even him. Besides having a history of being their first love, there is another secret that has them bound for life. Unfortunately he has no idea until one day the secret comes to the surface, making her pain and nightmare to be relive in her in front of her friends and the man that still has a hold on her broken heart.
We learned to love this group of people that love one another with such a passion they will do anything and everything for one another, making you forget this are fictional characters. You do not want to miss this incredible, unforgettable, lovable story. As always I can't wait to see what is in store from this series that I got to love with each book I read.
As a reader I can identify with Paige pain, the way this story takes you into her story it will have you ugly crying and leaving you with a heartache. This story will have you thanking your lucky starts you don't ever have to face what Paige has gone through. I also want to thank this incredible author for shining a light into this heartbreaking situation some of us had suffered. The pain that it was describe is so real, and how it was handle made it perfect. Thank you from the bottom of my broken heart.
This book was gifted by the author in exchange for an honest review.
https://www.facebook.com/Bookaholican...
September 10, 2016
“Challenged By You” is about Paige Abram and Drake Wilkins – who fell in love way back when they were teenagers. Then, these two were inseparable but when it was time to graduate and move on to college they elected to end things. Years pass without them seeing each other when unexpectedly Drake reappears in Paige’s life. This should be a relief for both of them but instead, they struggle because it brought back so many excruciating memories.
This was one of the biggest draws for me… witnessing how they individually dealt with the painful issues. What was noteworthy was the fact that despite this crazy magnetism, they took things slow. They resolved all the issues together before even considering moving onto something more. Needless to say, Paige and Drake’s character development was beyond what I could ever imagine. As is the other couples in the series.
I do need to mention, that this isn’t a story that I would recommend reading in public. There were multiple instances where my emotions were just out of control and I became just a sniffling mess. The way Steph Nuss was able to portray both Paige and Drake’s emotions was remarkable and this is one of the reasons I keep coming back for more.
I can’t get enough of this series! I absolutely love the characters and can not compliment Steph Nuss enough on how she is able to flawlessly tie in all the remarkable couples from the previous books into the current story. It’s as if I am getting multiple books in one. They don’t have to be read together but why wouldn’t you? I guarantee that you once you’ve read one you will be instantaneously hooked just as I am.
Liezel's Book Blog
This was one of the biggest draws for me… witnessing how they individually dealt with the painful issues. What was noteworthy was the fact that despite this crazy magnetism, they took things slow. They resolved all the issues together before even considering moving onto something more. Needless to say, Paige and Drake’s character development was beyond what I could ever imagine. As is the other couples in the series.
I do need to mention, that this isn’t a story that I would recommend reading in public. There were multiple instances where my emotions were just out of control and I became just a sniffling mess. The way Steph Nuss was able to portray both Paige and Drake’s emotions was remarkable and this is one of the reasons I keep coming back for more.
I can’t get enough of this series! I absolutely love the characters and can not compliment Steph Nuss enough on how she is able to flawlessly tie in all the remarkable couples from the previous books into the current story. It’s as if I am getting multiple books in one. They don’t have to be read together but why wouldn’t you? I guarantee that you once you’ve read one you will be instantaneously hooked just as I am.
Liezel's Book Blog
August 11, 2016
I got an arc of Challenged By You from the author for an honest review. I had never heard of this author before but I really liked the synopsis of this book. I hadn't realised it was the 5th of a series but you could read it as a standalone in my opinion, in saying that it would have definitely benefited me more had I read the others first.
I knew going into this book there would be a level of sadness in it but I had no idea the amount of heartache and anguish I would feel! I was happily going along reading this book then BOOM I'm smacked in the face with sorrow and an ugly crying mess! A book with a five star in my opinion is one that delves straight into my heart and leaves it's Mark long after I have finished and this is a book that is certain to do that! The
I didn't expect to like Paige as much as I did, I thought she would be a total b!tch but found that wasn't the case! Sure she made some mistakes but she knew them and accepted she was wrong.
Drake was definitely a great H, I really loved his character. He treated Paige like a princess and even after he found out what she had kept hidden he would have moved heaven and earth for her!
There was one part in particular that really stood out for me, I was sobbing my heart out but Cash said something and I couldn't help but giggle. If that isn't a sign of a talented author I don't know what is! To be able to make me feel so many emotions while reading is something I long for in a book and this one definitely delivered!
I will definitely be going back and reading this series from the beginning! I can't wait to read their stories as they seem like such a great bunch of characters! I'm also looking forward to seeing what comes next!
April 24, 2016
Challenged by You is the fifth book in the Love In The City Series. This book can be read as a standalone, but all five books are incredibly well written and engaging and revolve around a group of close knit friends.
Challenged by You, is a highly emotive read, it's a story that will stay with you long after you have finished reading it.
Being a fan of Steph Nuss, I've eagerly awaited Paige's story. never did I think it would affect me the way it did. Paige has secrets, although she is a great friend, she has always seemed a bit closed off and doesn't share her past with her friends who are as close as family. Paige projects a tough outer shell, but it's all really an act to protect herself.
Drake was Paige's childhood sweetheart and when they reconnect all the feeling and chemistry they previously shared come flooding back to the surface. Paige made choices, and kept a secret that has caused her to isolate herself from everyone she once loved.
This was by far my favorite book in this series. It's an emotional roller coaster, both heartbreaking and heartwarming. I experienced a gamut of emotions throughout this book including laughter and tears. I read this book in one sitting, and literally could not put it down even when I had tears streaming down my face.
This book really has all the feels, and is so much more than a contemporary romance, its such a beautiful story of love, loss, family and friendship. I loved this book, the characters, the plot everything I couldn't fault it and I do not hesitate in recommending it.
Challenged by You, is a highly emotive read, it's a story that will stay with you long after you have finished reading it.
Being a fan of Steph Nuss, I've eagerly awaited Paige's story. never did I think it would affect me the way it did. Paige has secrets, although she is a great friend, she has always seemed a bit closed off and doesn't share her past with her friends who are as close as family. Paige projects a tough outer shell, but it's all really an act to protect herself.
Drake was Paige's childhood sweetheart and when they reconnect all the feeling and chemistry they previously shared come flooding back to the surface. Paige made choices, and kept a secret that has caused her to isolate herself from everyone she once loved.
This was by far my favorite book in this series. It's an emotional roller coaster, both heartbreaking and heartwarming. I experienced a gamut of emotions throughout this book including laughter and tears. I read this book in one sitting, and literally could not put it down even when I had tears streaming down my face.
This book really has all the feels, and is so much more than a contemporary romance, its such a beautiful story of love, loss, family and friendship. I loved this book, the characters, the plot everything I couldn't fault it and I do not hesitate in recommending it.
August 21, 2016
I received a copy of this book from the author for an honest review.
This is the first book I've read in this series. I know - I know! Usually I like to start from the beginning - but let me tell you. You can read this book and be a-ok with what's going on. It truly focuses on these two characters with a mix of the others making appearances here and there.
So in this edition of Love in the City the lead female - Paige - is one kick butt woman. She is a complete workaholic and rarely takes time off to enjoy just being with her friends. She's not afraid to speak her mind and she gives her bosses the what for when needed.
When Drake Wilkins waltzes in her life again after shattering her heart years prior - he's determined to break the tough shell that surrounds this woman he used to know and care for. He's definitely interested in what she's been up to since they last saw each other.
While their worlds have collided again Paige is determined to keep Drake at bay. Secrets she holds can destroy what renewed friendship they've built since his entry to her present.
I thought their story was great. These two are either other's opposites turned perfect mate. They do have a massive secret to wade through. You know what that means - it's run or stick time - and only time will really tell what will happen with Drake and Paige. You'll need to check out the story to see!
This is the first book I've read in this series. I know - I know! Usually I like to start from the beginning - but let me tell you. You can read this book and be a-ok with what's going on. It truly focuses on these two characters with a mix of the others making appearances here and there.
So in this edition of Love in the City the lead female - Paige - is one kick butt woman. She is a complete workaholic and rarely takes time off to enjoy just being with her friends. She's not afraid to speak her mind and she gives her bosses the what for when needed.
When Drake Wilkins waltzes in her life again after shattering her heart years prior - he's determined to break the tough shell that surrounds this woman he used to know and care for. He's definitely interested in what she's been up to since they last saw each other.
While their worlds have collided again Paige is determined to keep Drake at bay. Secrets she holds can destroy what renewed friendship they've built since his entry to her present.
I thought their story was great. These two are either other's opposites turned perfect mate. They do have a massive secret to wade through. You know what that means - it's run or stick time - and only time will really tell what will happen with Drake and Paige. You'll need to check out the story to see!
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