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Chase Brothers #1
London Bound
It wasn’t exactly like spunky, photography student, Abbie Nartey ran away from her life…except, that she left under the cover of darkness and put three thousand miles between her and her ex-boyfriend’s betrayal. She went to London searching for her dream. She never expected to find love, or herself. Heir to his family’s tech fortune, sexy, Alexi Chase, is looking for freedom—from his family and from his past. What he’s not looking for is love. With secrets like his, he can’t afford to let anyone get too close. But a chance rescue has him wondering if the price of keeping secrets is too high. Will Alexi risk losing love to keep his past hidden? Will Abbie trust herself enough to love again? Or will their pasts keep then from accepting true love? This book contains mature themes and is intended for audiences 18+
458 pages, Paperback
First published March 3, 2014
73 people are currently reading
894 people want to read
About the author
Nana Malone
168 books3,027 followersWall Street Journal & USA Today Bestselling author, Nana Malone writes Sexy Feel-Good Romance and loves of all things romance and adventure.
That love started with a tattered romantic suspense she "borrowed" from her cousin. It was a sultry summer afternoon in Ghana, and Nana was a precocious thirteen. She's been in love with kick butt heroines ever since. With her overactive imagination, and channeling her inner Buffy, it was only a matter a time before she started creating her own characters.
That love started with a tattered romantic suspense she "borrowed" from her cousin. It was a sultry summer afternoon in Ghana, and Nana was a precocious thirteen. She's been in love with kick butt heroines ever since. With her overactive imagination, and channeling her inner Buffy, it was only a matter a time before she started creating her own characters.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews
August 28, 2014
Sigh.
Maybe I'm just not the right readership for the New Adult genre. I just can't stomach pages and pages of unnecessary angst and problems that could easily be solved if the characters actually TALKED to each other. And I realize I've been out of college for a decade but damn, I just don't remember my life being so filled with DRAMA! I remember being around quirky people who led adventurous lives. I don't see any of this reflected in NA. Hell in some books I see the feminist movement thrown back at least thirty years. And don't get me started on the huge whitewash.
Abbie isn't a total washout character, but seriously the girl just got out of an abusive relationship and now she's jumping into a new one with a guy whose head isn't on completely straight. Alexi needs therapy in the worst way, and a life. London Bound isn't a horrible book; it's well-edited, and the female friendships are solid, but I'm just not invested in these characters. Even the sex scenes bored me (very sad). I may go back and finish this, but right now, I need less nonsensical angst. And for goddess sake, STOP USING THAT SAME CHICK ON THE COVER! Aren't there any other stock photos of black women with braids somewhere?
Maybe I'm just not the right readership for the New Adult genre. I just can't stomach pages and pages of unnecessary angst and problems that could easily be solved if the characters actually TALKED to each other. And I realize I've been out of college for a decade but damn, I just don't remember my life being so filled with DRAMA! I remember being around quirky people who led adventurous lives. I don't see any of this reflected in NA. Hell in some books I see the feminist movement thrown back at least thirty years. And don't get me started on the huge whitewash.
Abbie isn't a total washout character, but seriously the girl just got out of an abusive relationship and now she's jumping into a new one with a guy whose head isn't on completely straight. Alexi needs therapy in the worst way, and a life. London Bound isn't a horrible book; it's well-edited, and the female friendships are solid, but I'm just not invested in these characters. Even the sex scenes bored me (very sad). I may go back and finish this, but right now, I need less nonsensical angst. And for goddess sake, STOP USING THAT SAME CHICK ON THE COVER! Aren't there any other stock photos of black women with braids somewhere?
April 20, 2014
I was fortunate enough to receive an Advance Reading Copy of this book for an honest review. Previous to receiving the ARC I had never read any stories by this author.
This is Abbie and Alexi’s story.
Alexi is, sexy, good-looking, strong, broody with lots of secrets. He is totally into Abbie and wants to be with her but his secrets threaten to break them up before they have even had a chance to get started.
Abbie is, caring, kind and running from her ex-boyfriend who has been abusive to her in their relationship and extremely manipulative.
I found the story engaging and I wanted to keep reading it so see how Abbie and Alexi deal with their issues. I did connect to the couple and I could feel the chemistry and attraction between them.
However, I was disappointed in Abbie’s response to every crisis that she and Alexi had in the relationship. Alexi always goes to her and wants to explain what went wrong, admittedly he should have told her earlier before it all hits the fan but he always tries to reach out to her to explain. She cuts him off and does not want to speak to him and she does not have all the information to judge why he did not inform her of all that was going on in his life and when he needs to explain it , she does not want to listen.
Sophie her best friend sums it up best for me:
“maybe he hasn’t told you everything because he knows you’ll run”
“you’ve run from this thing the moment there was trouble”
I could not have said it better myself. All that said it was a pleasant, romantic read!
This is Abbie and Alexi’s story.
Alexi is, sexy, good-looking, strong, broody with lots of secrets. He is totally into Abbie and wants to be with her but his secrets threaten to break them up before they have even had a chance to get started.
Abbie is, caring, kind and running from her ex-boyfriend who has been abusive to her in their relationship and extremely manipulative.
I found the story engaging and I wanted to keep reading it so see how Abbie and Alexi deal with their issues. I did connect to the couple and I could feel the chemistry and attraction between them.
However, I was disappointed in Abbie’s response to every crisis that she and Alexi had in the relationship. Alexi always goes to her and wants to explain what went wrong, admittedly he should have told her earlier before it all hits the fan but he always tries to reach out to her to explain. She cuts him off and does not want to speak to him and she does not have all the information to judge why he did not inform her of all that was going on in his life and when he needs to explain it , she does not want to listen.
Sophie her best friend sums it up best for me:
“maybe he hasn’t told you everything because he knows you’ll run”
“you’ve run from this thing the moment there was trouble”
I could not have said it better myself. All that said it was a pleasant, romantic read!
April 1, 2014
I had the pleasure of getting an advance reader copy of London Bound, and I stayed up until the wee small hours reading it! This is Alexi and Abbie's story, and in the course of falling in love, they each had to learn to be their best and truest selves.
Abbie was running from her old life as much as she was running toward the gifted photographer she was meant to be. Alexi was afraid to believe anyone would ever understand the choices he had made--choices that had shaped the man he could become.
Can Alexi and Abbie learn to trust in themselves and each other? Will they give up on each other even though their chemistry is off the charts? I had the best time reading their story to find out!
(Oh, and, their chemistry?? H - O - T !!!)
Abbie was running from her old life as much as she was running toward the gifted photographer she was meant to be. Alexi was afraid to believe anyone would ever understand the choices he had made--choices that had shaped the man he could become.
Can Alexi and Abbie learn to trust in themselves and each other? Will they give up on each other even though their chemistry is off the charts? I had the best time reading their story to find out!
(Oh, and, their chemistry?? H - O - T !!!)
January 22, 2017
4.5 stars!
This was my first novel by Nana Malone, but it definitely won’t be my last.
Minor spoilers alert!!!
★¸¸.•*¨*•★Unabridged Audiobook Info★•*¨*•.¸¸★
Narrated by: Kitty Bang and Graham Halstead
Length: 10 hrs and 20 mins
Release Date: 07-28-14
Publisher: Nana Malone
Writing style: Dual POVs
Cover design: I freaking LOVE this cover! Isn’t it sexy? I think so. Bravo!
Ratings breakdown:
Overall: ★★★★½ | Graham's performance: ★★★★½ | Kitty's performance: ★★★★★ | Story: ★★★★
Audible review title: “I loved all of their snogging the most!”
What made the experience of listening to London Bound the most enjoyable?
I really liked the energy of this novel. Abbie and Alexi weren't looking to date, but fate had other plans.
What other book might you compare London Bound to and why?
I recently read another novel with the same title, London Bound by Amy Daws. In contrast, it was a single POV narration and a bit less enthralling and satisfying overall. Personally, I prefer how Abbie and Alexi's relationship progressed with more interaction and dating time up front as opposed to the other novel's slower paced story.
Have you listened to any of Graham Halstead and Kitty Bang ’s other performances before? How does this one compare?
Yes, I've listened to this duo narrate Filthy English by Ilsa Madden-Mills. I think they make a great duo, and their performance narrating Abbie and Alexi's love story was just as entertaining as that one.
Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?
I was really impressed by what Abbie's dad told her when she called him and voiced her doubts after a bad assignment critique in her photography class.
Any additional comments?
Abbie and Alexi had so many wonderful kissing or snogging moments. I loved how author Nana Malone described that intimate act most especially. Their sex scenes were very steamy and earthy. Fortunately, I was able to do a semi-dual format read of this one and had time to reread the e-book format, highlight and bookmark many favorite scenes. That's always an added bonus. And the cover image is simply gorgeous and sexy!
This was my first novel by Nana Malone, but it definitely won’t be my last.
Minor spoilers alert!!!
★¸¸.•*¨*•★Unabridged Audiobook Info★•*¨*•.¸¸★
Narrated by: Kitty Bang and Graham Halstead
Length: 10 hrs and 20 mins
Release Date: 07-28-14
Publisher: Nana Malone
Writing style: Dual POVs
Cover design: I freaking LOVE this cover! Isn’t it sexy? I think so. Bravo!
Ratings breakdown:
Overall: ★★★★½ | Graham's performance: ★★★★½ | Kitty's performance: ★★★★★ | Story: ★★★★
Audible review title: “I loved all of their snogging the most!”
What made the experience of listening to London Bound the most enjoyable?
I really liked the energy of this novel. Abbie and Alexi weren't looking to date, but fate had other plans.
What other book might you compare London Bound to and why?
I recently read another novel with the same title, London Bound by Amy Daws. In contrast, it was a single POV narration and a bit less enthralling and satisfying overall. Personally, I prefer how Abbie and Alexi's relationship progressed with more interaction and dating time up front as opposed to the other novel's slower paced story.
Have you listened to any of Graham Halstead and Kitty Bang ’s other performances before? How does this one compare?
Yes, I've listened to this duo narrate Filthy English by Ilsa Madden-Mills. I think they make a great duo, and their performance narrating Abbie and Alexi's love story was just as entertaining as that one.
Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?
I was really impressed by what Abbie's dad told her when she called him and voiced her doubts after a bad assignment critique in her photography class.
Any additional comments?
Abbie and Alexi had so many wonderful kissing or snogging moments. I loved how author Nana Malone described that intimate act most especially. Their sex scenes were very steamy and earthy. Fortunately, I was able to do a semi-dual format read of this one and had time to reread the e-book format, highlight and bookmark many favorite scenes. That's always an added bonus. And the cover image is simply gorgeous and sexy!
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What would you leave behind to follow a dream? Find out what Abbie left behind now for just $0.99 for a limited time.
Abbie & Lex hold such a special place in my heart! Writing the book transported me to that time in my life when I was just a girl drooling over London boys and figuring myself out. I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it!
Nana
What would you leave behind to follow a dream? Find out what Abbie left behind now for just $0.99 for a limited time.
Abbie & Lex hold such a special place in my heart! Writing the book transported me to that time in my life when I was just a girl drooling over London boys and figuring myself out. I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it!
Nana
January 11, 2016
I usually like a lot of YA but this one just fell a little flat for me. It started off great and I was hooked from the first paragraph then I just lost interest and it was a struggle for me to get through it. Sadly, this was just not my cup of tea.
February 25, 2020
3.5 stars for the book, 2 stars for the audio narration - A sweet, if a little melodramatic NA title, with an exceptionally strong start, which lost a bit of momentum towards the end and never quite lived up to the potential of the opening chapters.
First off - please universe and all that's holy NEVER, EVER, NEVER let Kitty Bang attempt a Geordie accent ever again. At it's best it sounded middle-eastern Irish, at worst, Dick Van Dyke cockney! Her other accents were so, so, but realistically any native British listener would find them wanting at best, grating at worst. Graham Halstead, the second narrator was not bad, but not particularly engaging or memorable either, and not a narrator I'd go out of my way to listen to again.
In terms of the story I thought it started with a real bang, I was on the edge of my seat really rooting for Abbie
Lex was intriguing from the start and his set up promised so much, but again neither of these plot points particularly delivered a real punch and I must confess upon Lex finally recounting his dark secret to Abbie I was pretty nonplussed
I felt the relationship between Lex and Xander could have been better explored, the potential love triangle angle another plot thread that could have been used much more skillfully to create growth in the protagonists, develop the love story and examine Lex and Xander's childhood issues, rather than a rushed'meh' reveal in the eleventh hour.
I guess reading all that it seems like I didn't enjoy it, but it's more that it irked me because there was so much potential both in plot and characters. I liked the central characters and some of the secondary characters, but felt that their emotions and actions were often a little off and the plot never delivered on the juicy titbits it threw out early on. It felt more like I was listening to a well edited early draft, that hadn't been fully fleshed out.
First off - please universe and all that's holy NEVER, EVER, NEVER let Kitty Bang attempt a Geordie accent ever again. At it's best it sounded middle-eastern Irish, at worst, Dick Van Dyke cockney! Her other accents were so, so, but realistically any native British listener would find them wanting at best, grating at worst. Graham Halstead, the second narrator was not bad, but not particularly engaging or memorable either, and not a narrator I'd go out of my way to listen to again.
In terms of the story I thought it started with a real bang, I was on the edge of my seat really rooting for Abbie
Lex was intriguing from the start and his set up promised so much, but again neither of these plot points particularly delivered a real punch and I must confess upon Lex finally recounting his dark secret to Abbie I was pretty nonplussed
I felt the relationship between Lex and Xander could have been better explored, the potential love triangle angle another plot thread that could have been used much more skillfully to create growth in the protagonists, develop the love story and examine Lex and Xander's childhood issues, rather than a rushed'meh' reveal in the eleventh hour.
I guess reading all that it seems like I didn't enjoy it, but it's more that it irked me because there was so much potential both in plot and characters. I liked the central characters and some of the secondary characters, but felt that their emotions and actions were often a little off and the plot never delivered on the juicy titbits it threw out early on. It felt more like I was listening to a well edited early draft, that hadn't been fully fleshed out.
May 23, 2014
London Bound has left me with a huge book hangover, wondering which book I have on my kindle to compete with Nana Malone's inspiring and absorbing romance.
Abena begins this story abused and oppressed, yet the reader watches her bravely evolve into a capable and independent young woman who leaves behind her family and home to study in a different country. Abbie is someone I could easily imagine befriending; she uses her sassy attitude as a defense mechanism and is passionate, particularly about photography.
Admittedly I thought that London Bound would have a more obvious love triangle, presuming that Abbie would be torn between Lex and Xander. Yet I loved the fact it was the less arrogant brother whose relationship with Abbie flourishes, allowing her to succumb to her sexual nature. Nana Malone creates wonderful scenes between the couple and whilst they are passionate, they also reveal a mutual love, deserved by both characters.
Aside from the romance, Nana Malone builds the underlying thread of the story; the secrets Abbie and Lex hide from each other. Although the truths are hinted at I was surprised and shocked by Lex's revelations but they allowed me to feel a deeper sympathy for the characters involved.
London Bound is a contemporary romance which can be distinguished from other books in its genre with its carefully layered plot, deep emotions and engaging personalities. Grab this book now!
Abena begins this story abused and oppressed, yet the reader watches her bravely evolve into a capable and independent young woman who leaves behind her family and home to study in a different country. Abbie is someone I could easily imagine befriending; she uses her sassy attitude as a defense mechanism and is passionate, particularly about photography.
Admittedly I thought that London Bound would have a more obvious love triangle, presuming that Abbie would be torn between Lex and Xander. Yet I loved the fact it was the less arrogant brother whose relationship with Abbie flourishes, allowing her to succumb to her sexual nature. Nana Malone creates wonderful scenes between the couple and whilst they are passionate, they also reveal a mutual love, deserved by both characters.
Aside from the romance, Nana Malone builds the underlying thread of the story; the secrets Abbie and Lex hide from each other. Although the truths are hinted at I was surprised and shocked by Lex's revelations but they allowed me to feel a deeper sympathy for the characters involved.
London Bound is a contemporary romance which can be distinguished from other books in its genre with its carefully layered plot, deep emotions and engaging personalities. Grab this book now!
April 12, 2017
My first time listening to an audio book. I was gifted this book and loved it. It was a fantastic read or should I say listen.
October 5, 2014
**This review was originally posted on my old blog for a blog tour on May 23th, 2014. For the full review please feel free to click here.**
My Thoughts
When I got the chance to take part in the book blitz for London Bound I became extremely intrigued to read about Abby. This was a quick, well written story, but far from being considered a light read. I admit that I had a hard time reading the beginning that involved her abusive ex-boyfriend, but once I managed to put my big girl panties on I realized how well and realistic Nana managed to capture those scenarios. I feel like books with abusive significant others can be hard to portray, but Nana made it all look so easy!
Abby manages to escape and move to London where she hopes to start a new life, and obviously the last thing she’s expecting to do is fall in love, but fall she does! While I loved the chemistry between Lex and Abby, and boy was there ever chemistry! I felt like their relationship was slightly rushed, I would have liked to of seen it develop more through London Bound. Lex has a past that he hasn’t been able to accept and get over, and as much as he’s a great character I would have preferred that Abby be with someone who had their head on their shoulders. BUT don’t get me wrong, I love Lex! I guess it probably would have been somewhat unrealistic if Nana coupled her up with something who was too perfect.
Overall, this was a beautiful book! Be prepared for it to pull at those heartstrings, it’s totally worth it. This is New Adult book that everyone should read! Pst! It’s so good that as much as I have an ebook copy, I need London Bound in paperback!
My Thoughts
When I got the chance to take part in the book blitz for London Bound I became extremely intrigued to read about Abby. This was a quick, well written story, but far from being considered a light read. I admit that I had a hard time reading the beginning that involved her abusive ex-boyfriend, but once I managed to put my big girl panties on I realized how well and realistic Nana managed to capture those scenarios. I feel like books with abusive significant others can be hard to portray, but Nana made it all look so easy!
Abby manages to escape and move to London where she hopes to start a new life, and obviously the last thing she’s expecting to do is fall in love, but fall she does! While I loved the chemistry between Lex and Abby, and boy was there ever chemistry! I felt like their relationship was slightly rushed, I would have liked to of seen it develop more through London Bound. Lex has a past that he hasn’t been able to accept and get over, and as much as he’s a great character I would have preferred that Abby be with someone who had their head on their shoulders. BUT don’t get me wrong, I love Lex! I guess it probably would have been somewhat unrealistic if Nana coupled her up with something who was too perfect.
Overall, this was a beautiful book! Be prepared for it to pull at those heartstrings, it’s totally worth it. This is New Adult book that everyone should read! Pst! It’s so good that as much as I have an ebook copy, I need London Bound in paperback!
May 9, 2014
Unlike the rest of her over-achieving and perfect lives family, Abbi has always wanted to be more free-spirited and creative and go into Photography at her dream school in London where she can study under the famous Xander Chase - photographer extraordinaire. When her current boyfriend Evan hides her dream school from her and gives her a few more hits, she realises that she has had enough and that it's finally time to do something for her and stand up to him. Abbi does this and soon finds herself living in London with her friend Tamsin and Sophie - friends that she meet at NYU. It is here that she finally meets Xander Chase - her professor and he has a nickname for her Little Bird , the thing though is life for Abbi is about to get a tad more complicated when she meets Alexi aka Lex - he happens to be Xander's younger brother and it seems like they both have their eyes and hearts set on Abbi, though only one can have her. Who will Abbi choose and what will happen when she is confronted by an incident that reminds her of her past ? Has Abbi chosen the right brother to be with , when a dark secret bubbles to the surface which will make Abbi take a step back and re-evaluate her life at this point ?
Find out in Book #1 of the "Chase Brothers" series by Nana Malone.
Find out in Book #1 of the "Chase Brothers" series by Nana Malone.
June 24, 2021
Caught in a world that's spinning out of control, two strangers risk everything and fall in love. Abbie and Lex write their own fairytale. In the dark moments, they find strength. In the lighter moments, they find hope. In every moment in between they capture your heart.
February 10, 2017
I have received an Advanced Copy by the author for an honest review. I have read several of this authors novels and I absolutely love her work. This one does not disappoint me! First off, Nana Malone has a writing style that flows throughout her books to make the story move smoothly. There's no point when you are thinking, wait, I am lost, did I miss a page? The events happen and she is descriptive to the point that you feel like you are experiencing the new things with her characters. Her characters are realistic and you fall in love with everyone.
I say this to say that with this novel, you have Abena (Abbie) and Alexi as the main characters and their chemistry is hot like fire! What I love is the fact that Abbie is real, she has goals in life and she truly works to achieve them even when it seemed like no one was on her side. She comes from a family who has a "plan" for her and going to London to pursue further lessons from a world renowned photographer which will help her. So she leaves after an " eye splitting" moment and it made her realize it's time to LIVE. With the help of her best friends from college who live in London, she moves without a look back home. In comes Alexi.. OMG.. The older brother of her photography professor who is hot himself and professes the first day of class that he isn't sleeping with anyone and oh... He makes his students cry at least once.. Yikes.. The other thing is Alexi is a man of wealth and comes from a history that Abbie was not prepared for nor wanted to be apart of while trying to be under the radar.. But they are drawn to each other, one thing leads to another and here you go.. Alexi has secrets of his own but what I loved was that he tried to be honest as much as he could without overwhelming Abbie. Unfortunately, his asshole father had other plans.. Not to write a novel reviewing the novel but this is a great read. Looking for a good book where there is an actual story line, a plot that you can follow and some hot love scenes.. this is your book!!!! Well worth the price and I can not wait for the next book!
I say this to say that with this novel, you have Abena (Abbie) and Alexi as the main characters and their chemistry is hot like fire! What I love is the fact that Abbie is real, she has goals in life and she truly works to achieve them even when it seemed like no one was on her side. She comes from a family who has a "plan" for her and going to London to pursue further lessons from a world renowned photographer which will help her. So she leaves after an " eye splitting" moment and it made her realize it's time to LIVE. With the help of her best friends from college who live in London, she moves without a look back home. In comes Alexi.. OMG.. The older brother of her photography professor who is hot himself and professes the first day of class that he isn't sleeping with anyone and oh... He makes his students cry at least once.. Yikes.. The other thing is Alexi is a man of wealth and comes from a history that Abbie was not prepared for nor wanted to be apart of while trying to be under the radar.. But they are drawn to each other, one thing leads to another and here you go.. Alexi has secrets of his own but what I loved was that he tried to be honest as much as he could without overwhelming Abbie. Unfortunately, his asshole father had other plans.. Not to write a novel reviewing the novel but this is a great read. Looking for a good book where there is an actual story line, a plot that you can follow and some hot love scenes.. this is your book!!!! Well worth the price and I can not wait for the next book!
April 9, 2014
I wish to thank the author for providing me a complimentary copy of her book in exchange for an honest review.
I wasn’t sure what to expect from this book. The cover really struck me though. What should be the look of passion or love is instead the blank stare of a woman but yet says so much about her personal wellbeing and still gives off emotions. The blurb allures you to the idea that there’s so much more to the story and as I started reading, I was instantly confronted with the ex-boyfriends betrayals. Yes, not just one but a one, two and out the door he was sent. I instantly felt compassion and sympathy for Abbie and to have a connection like that, so soon, committed me to her throughout the book.
Held back by her parents and boyfriend, for years, always expecting to be what they wanted to mold her to be, Abbie breaks free of them and with courage of a lion she strikes out on her own path in life. How many people have you seen that are just downright unhappy because they followed the dreams they were told to follow? May that be with love, careers, family, etc. Abbie says enough and blows everyone away.
Abbie meets Alexi, aka Lex, and their love story blossoms. Alexi has his fair share of secrets he’s keeping, but I felt that it was made out way more than it needed to be. It wasn’t like he was a secret spy or anything, just business/family ties and some life choices that he was keeping mum about. And that isn’t a spoiler, you learn about certain things from the start of the book. This mixed with the walls that Abbie has put up from her life experiences makes for a whirlwind of push and pull of emotions.
There are some violent moments, sexual situations and adult themes in this book, so I recommend it to readers 18+. For those that like a contemporary romance, cultural variations and a story that makes you think, you will enjoy this book.
I wasn’t sure what to expect from this book. The cover really struck me though. What should be the look of passion or love is instead the blank stare of a woman but yet says so much about her personal wellbeing and still gives off emotions. The blurb allures you to the idea that there’s so much more to the story and as I started reading, I was instantly confronted with the ex-boyfriends betrayals. Yes, not just one but a one, two and out the door he was sent. I instantly felt compassion and sympathy for Abbie and to have a connection like that, so soon, committed me to her throughout the book.
Held back by her parents and boyfriend, for years, always expecting to be what they wanted to mold her to be, Abbie breaks free of them and with courage of a lion she strikes out on her own path in life. How many people have you seen that are just downright unhappy because they followed the dreams they were told to follow? May that be with love, careers, family, etc. Abbie says enough and blows everyone away.
Abbie meets Alexi, aka Lex, and their love story blossoms. Alexi has his fair share of secrets he’s keeping, but I felt that it was made out way more than it needed to be. It wasn’t like he was a secret spy or anything, just business/family ties and some life choices that he was keeping mum about. And that isn’t a spoiler, you learn about certain things from the start of the book. This mixed with the walls that Abbie has put up from her life experiences makes for a whirlwind of push and pull of emotions.
There are some violent moments, sexual situations and adult themes in this book, so I recommend it to readers 18+. For those that like a contemporary romance, cultural variations and a story that makes you think, you will enjoy this book.
February 6, 2017
I received a review copy of this book for my stop on the blog tour at Donnie Darko Girl.
I keep surprising myself with the novels I read this year. To be honest, the synopsis for London Bound at a glance sounds formulaic, but let me assure you the story is anything but! The way in which Abbie's ex-boyfriend betrayed her isn't what you're probably thinking, and that isn't the only surprise in store - this romance is told in a way that's fresh and unique.
Abbie and Alexi have much in common - respective family drama, secrets they're keeping, and a desire to break free of their pasts to find happiness. I rooted for them to become a couple and wanted to convince them to just be together and forget everyone else. But I also knew that would've been too easy. Their push-and-pull romance kept me transfixed to my Kindle.
I loved Abbie! She's so much stronger and braver than she thinks. It's a shame her family is so overbearing and disapproving of what she wants to do with her life. I felt the same way about Alexi's father, who is tyrannical towards his son but doesn't know the first thing about him. At least Alexi had a good relationship with his mother.
London Bound was even better than I was hoping. A range of emotion was brought out in me, and I love it when a book can do that. I became fully invested in these characters and what happened to them. This is the kind of book I want to shout from the rooftops for everyone to read!
If you've been hesitant to try a New Adult romance, thinking they all sound the same, I recommend reading London Bound. The story is fresh and full of surprises, and the writing made me forget I was reading a book. I felt like I was there with the characters. I'm super excited for the next book!
I keep surprising myself with the novels I read this year. To be honest, the synopsis for London Bound at a glance sounds formulaic, but let me assure you the story is anything but! The way in which Abbie's ex-boyfriend betrayed her isn't what you're probably thinking, and that isn't the only surprise in store - this romance is told in a way that's fresh and unique.
Abbie and Alexi have much in common - respective family drama, secrets they're keeping, and a desire to break free of their pasts to find happiness. I rooted for them to become a couple and wanted to convince them to just be together and forget everyone else. But I also knew that would've been too easy. Their push-and-pull romance kept me transfixed to my Kindle.
I loved Abbie! She's so much stronger and braver than she thinks. It's a shame her family is so overbearing and disapproving of what she wants to do with her life. I felt the same way about Alexi's father, who is tyrannical towards his son but doesn't know the first thing about him. At least Alexi had a good relationship with his mother.
London Bound was even better than I was hoping. A range of emotion was brought out in me, and I love it when a book can do that. I became fully invested in these characters and what happened to them. This is the kind of book I want to shout from the rooftops for everyone to read!
If you've been hesitant to try a New Adult romance, thinking they all sound the same, I recommend reading London Bound. The story is fresh and full of surprises, and the writing made me forget I was reading a book. I felt like I was there with the characters. I'm super excited for the next book!
May 20, 2014
I was fortunate enough to receive an Advanced Review Copy (ARC) of this book in exchange for an honest review. Previous to receiving the ARC, I had never read any stories by this author.
This is Abbie and Alexi’s story.
Alexi is, sexy, good-looking, strong, broody with lots of secrets. He is totally into Abbie and wants to be with her, but his secrets threaten to break them up before they have even had a chance to get started.
Abbie is caring, kind and running from her ex-boyfriend who has been abusive to her in their relationship and extremely manipulative.
I found the story engaging and I wanted to keep reading it to see how Abbie and Alexi deal with their issues. I did connect with the couple and I could feel the chemistry and attraction between them.
However, I was disappointed in Abbie’s response to every crisis that she and Alexi had in their relationship. Alexi always goes to her and wants to explain what went wrong. Admittedly, he should have told her earlier before it all hits the fan but he always tries to reach out to her to explain. She cuts him off and does not want to speak to him and she does not have all the information to judge why he did not inform her of all that was going on in his life, and when he needs to explain it, she does not want to listen.
Sophie, her best friend, sums it up best for me: “…maybe he hasn’t told you everything because he knows you’ll run…you’ve run from this thing the moment there was trouble.”
I could not have said it better myself.
The pace of the story could have been quicker. All that said, it is a pleasant, romantic read!
-Review by Marcia
This is Abbie and Alexi’s story.
Alexi is, sexy, good-looking, strong, broody with lots of secrets. He is totally into Abbie and wants to be with her, but his secrets threaten to break them up before they have even had a chance to get started.
Abbie is caring, kind and running from her ex-boyfriend who has been abusive to her in their relationship and extremely manipulative.
I found the story engaging and I wanted to keep reading it to see how Abbie and Alexi deal with their issues. I did connect with the couple and I could feel the chemistry and attraction between them.
However, I was disappointed in Abbie’s response to every crisis that she and Alexi had in their relationship. Alexi always goes to her and wants to explain what went wrong. Admittedly, he should have told her earlier before it all hits the fan but he always tries to reach out to her to explain. She cuts him off and does not want to speak to him and she does not have all the information to judge why he did not inform her of all that was going on in his life, and when he needs to explain it, she does not want to listen.
Sophie, her best friend, sums it up best for me: “…maybe he hasn’t told you everything because he knows you’ll run…you’ve run from this thing the moment there was trouble.”
I could not have said it better myself.
The pace of the story could have been quicker. All that said, it is a pleasant, romantic read!
-Review by Marcia
March 31, 2014
I was fortunate to get the ARC too, and I loved this book.
“London Bound” is a thrilling, emotional rollercoaster, sexy, funny and witty story. I just absolutely loved the story of betrayal, love found and things we do to make it work. It is absolutely fantastic to read, very well written and mature language for such a young couple. “London Bound” is engaging, I always said one more page and before I knew it I had stayed up for an hour, I just wanted to see what was going to happen next. Nana Malone is a very good author and I enjoy her books very much, they make me laugh, they make me ache and I just enjoy that her books are not mono-toned.
Abena is a strong minded, brave hearted young girl who stood up for herself and went after what she wanted, even though it was across the pond. Lex is a complex, loving, hardworking young man who seeks to separate himself from his controlling and angry father. Although both Abena and Lex want each other they have their own secrets that is preventing them from being honest and trusting of each other. Will they overcome their individual demons to be together and be happy? Or will they push each other away and end up alone? “London Bound” is a fascinating story, you have to read it.
“London Bound” is a thrilling, emotional rollercoaster, sexy, funny and witty story. I just absolutely loved the story of betrayal, love found and things we do to make it work. It is absolutely fantastic to read, very well written and mature language for such a young couple. “London Bound” is engaging, I always said one more page and before I knew it I had stayed up for an hour, I just wanted to see what was going to happen next. Nana Malone is a very good author and I enjoy her books very much, they make me laugh, they make me ache and I just enjoy that her books are not mono-toned.
Abena is a strong minded, brave hearted young girl who stood up for herself and went after what she wanted, even though it was across the pond. Lex is a complex, loving, hardworking young man who seeks to separate himself from his controlling and angry father. Although both Abena and Lex want each other they have their own secrets that is preventing them from being honest and trusting of each other. Will they overcome their individual demons to be together and be happy? Or will they push each other away and end up alone? “London Bound” is a fascinating story, you have to read it.
January 1, 2015
I was given a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
First of all, I'm not sure how to put into words how I feel about this book. As soon as it ended, and I closed my kindle, I just laid in my bed and had to figure out how to explain this book. I have come to the realization it is much harder to review a book I've really enjoyed.
From the beginning, I was drawn into the story. Having been in an abusive relationship myself, it was awesome to see Abbie stand up for herself and take charge of her life. She is a wonderful role model for women, and is a character that I won't easily forget.
I'm not generally a fan of sexy romance stories, most are cliché and boring, but I had a hard time putting this one down. Absolutely loved getting to know each of the characters.
The one drawback to it was that I wasn't ready to leave the characters. Even the background characters had fascinating stories that I wish I could read more about.
Highly recommend this book.
5/5 Platypires
http://www.platypire.com/j-hooligan/l...
First of all, I'm not sure how to put into words how I feel about this book. As soon as it ended, and I closed my kindle, I just laid in my bed and had to figure out how to explain this book. I have come to the realization it is much harder to review a book I've really enjoyed.
From the beginning, I was drawn into the story. Having been in an abusive relationship myself, it was awesome to see Abbie stand up for herself and take charge of her life. She is a wonderful role model for women, and is a character that I won't easily forget.
I'm not generally a fan of sexy romance stories, most are cliché and boring, but I had a hard time putting this one down. Absolutely loved getting to know each of the characters.
The one drawback to it was that I wasn't ready to leave the characters. Even the background characters had fascinating stories that I wish I could read more about.
Highly recommend this book.
5/5 Platypires
http://www.platypire.com/j-hooligan/l...
March 16, 2014
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was filled with angst, fun, romance and best of all friendship. I was always rooting for Abbie, at first to get her acceptance letter, then to fight for herself against Evan, then to go to London and make her dream come true, and of course for her and Lex to be together. She was headstrong and didn't let her past with Evan or her parents' treatment of her allow her spirit to be broken. I love the friendship she had with her friends and of course the love she and Lex had for each other. She made herself vulnerable to him but didn't weaken to the point where he had to swoop in and "rescue" her like a knight in shining armor(except for the Mini-Cooper incident.). Lex also finally gave into his vulnerability and opened up to Abbie about his troubled past. The story was just pitch perfect with a happy ending for our couple. Much credit to Nana Malone!!!
March 26, 2014
"London Bound" was a delightful read. I truly enjoyed delving into Abbie and Alexi's "Lex" love story. The chemistry between the characters was clear from the first moment they meant. Their eventual budding romance does not disappoint; I continuously anticipated the next encounter. However, I was a little annoyed when I discovered Lex's "demon." I expected so much more drama since how Lex was harboring the "nightmare" for over a decade. Overall, a great read. I truly felt I was visiting London from Abbie's eyes.
A copy of this book was provided courtesy of the author in exchange for an honest review.
A copy of this book was provided courtesy of the author in exchange for an honest review.
April 3, 2014
Because I'm a part if Nana Malone's amazing Street Team, I was given the privilege to read an ARC copy of "London Bound" and all I can say is, "Awwwwww, to be London Bound like Abbie, lol". I thoroughly enjoyed this book from start to finish. It was very well written and pages just oozed with chemistry for all if the characters, but especially Abbie and Lex. I am a huge fan of Nana Malone and her writing style, and she does not disappoint with this amazing book that is a must read for anyone who loves true love and romance.
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March 31, 2014
I appreciated getting an ARC (Advanced Review Copy) from the author for an honest review.
The hero is an Englishman who is enchanted by the realness of the American woman he meets in London.
He doesn't really encounter that in his daily life with other girls so he is drawn to the heroine and it becomes a lovely love story.
He has secrets that cause problems in the relationship and she has family issues and a jackass of an ex-boyfriend, but I loved
their interaction and the way they enjoyed each other. This was a wonderful, easy read, loved the story and I love Nana's writing style.
The hero is an Englishman who is enchanted by the realness of the American woman he meets in London.
He doesn't really encounter that in his daily life with other girls so he is drawn to the heroine and it becomes a lovely love story.
He has secrets that cause problems in the relationship and she has family issues and a jackass of an ex-boyfriend, but I loved
their interaction and the way they enjoyed each other. This was a wonderful, easy read, loved the story and I love Nana's writing style.
December 14, 2014
London Bound is a good book but not the best novel by Nana Malone. I will say that I absolutely loved Jasper and found myself looking forward to his parts the most (he needs his own book, ASAP!). If there had been more sexual tension between Xavier and Abbie that would've helped and maybe if we didn't know the situation between Gemma and Lex right off the bat it would've really propelled the story and could've served as a big reveal. But like I said it was a good book, I just enjoyed Game, Set, Match (I gave it four stars) much more.
April 23, 2014
The book was good, though lacking in a few areas. I wish I could have felt the love between the two main characters, but I didn't. I feel like there should have been a trip from Evan. I feel like there should have been some closure between her and her parents. I would have enjoyed Xander and Abbie getting involved just a tiny bit. I felt chemistry between them more so, than Lex and Abbie. If there is another book, I will check it out.
March 31, 2014
I loved this book. It is well written and the characters are strong and dynamic.You could just feel the chemistry between Abbie and Alexi.I could not put it down.
If you are a fan of contemporary adult romance,then this is the book for you.Once again Nana Malone does a wonderful job bringing you into the world of her character's.You won't be disappointed.
If you are a fan of contemporary adult romance,then this is the book for you.Once again Nana Malone does a wonderful job bringing you into the world of her character's.You won't be disappointed.
May 7, 2014
Spot on - Nana has really grown as a writer since Game, Set, Match - which was promising and well written, but London Bound was excellent. The English slang wasn't shoehorned it - it rang true and I loved every word. Sexy as hell and a great heroine. Cannot wait for book two. Any chance of an arc????
Review is on http://iloveromanticfiction.com/2014/...
Review is on http://iloveromanticfiction.com/2014/...
May 20, 2014
This is the first book I've read by this author but it won't be the last. I found this to be a great read.
This is Abbie and Alexis story. Abbie moves from America to London. Here she meets Alexis. I loved the chemistry between these two. The author keeps you on your toes in this story wondering what's going to happen next.
Great read with a good storyline that kept my attention.
This is Abbie and Alexis story. Abbie moves from America to London. Here she meets Alexis. I loved the chemistry between these two. The author keeps you on your toes in this story wondering what's going to happen next.
Great read with a good storyline that kept my attention.
April 5, 2014
I really enjoyed this book. The London backdrop made it even the more better. Abby and Alexis were a great match. I didn't know if the would mesh well together but somehow it worked. They had great chemistry and Their love story was intriguing.
April 15, 2014
This story felt so real, like it could be about someone you know. I enjoyed the fact that Abbie, had the courage to leave a situation and move to another country to follw her dream. Am amazing story...I have to visit London, it's on my bucket list. I RECOMMEND this book, its good.
June 3, 2016
I warmed up to this book too late. When it started to pace up, I was already bored with the story. The two main characters' chemistry was okay, but not sizzling. And there were too many drawn out conversations with friends that I didn't care about.
All in all. I did enjoy a bit of it.
All in all. I did enjoy a bit of it.
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