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Loco, Texas #3

I Want Crazy

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Alfred “Red” Calhoun is in a rut so big, he doesn’t know how to climb out of it. After his second best-selling romance novel, Red signed a contract for three more books, but now he’s having trouble finding his romantic mojo. To top it all off, his favorite bar has been bought by a woman who wants to close down and re-vamp it. With his favorite place gone, Red is looking for a distraction…just not the kind that the bar-ruining Jessie Dale has to offer, no matter how hot she may look in a pair of paint-covered overalls…

Jessie has been running away from trouble since the time she was a kid and now that she’s decided to make a place in Loco, Texas, she’ll be damned if she’s going to let a pain in the rear cowboy with too blue eyes chase her out of town. As Red and Jessie go toe to toe in an epic battle of wills, Jessie finds it hard to stay mad when Red’s kisses make her want to forget her trust issues…and take him home for a test drive.

But when Jessie’s pissed-off ex comes to town to make trouble, Red finds himself playing a hero in his own life and can’t seem to stay away from the her. But will he be able to handle all the crazy baggage Jessie’s been hauling around, or will these two miss out on the greatest adventure of all…falling in love?

339 pages, Paperback

First published March 31, 2014

9 people are currently reading
529 people want to read

About the author

Codi Gary

32 books977 followers
From the time I could put a Disney Book cassette into my little stereo,and read along, books have held a fantastic distraction. When I was eleven, I decided I wanted to be one of those magical people that brought stories to life. Devouring a book a day sometimes, my first romance novel stuck with me. I've always been a sucker for a happy ending (and the great romantic gesture)and that's what I try to put into my stories. I am so honored to be a part of Avon, and am so excited to have my own dreams coming true.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
Profile Image for Bette Hansen.
5,073 reviews40 followers
January 27, 2016
Loved it! This one was tucked away on my kindle for way too long. I adored Red's character in Make Me Crazy and I'm so glad he got his HEA. The interaction between Red and new girl in town Jessie was so fun to read. They didn't have a great first meeting with her changing the local bar and all. Red just wants things to stay the same and Jessie has big plans that mean lots of changes. Watching their relationship evolve was quite a trick. I highly recommend this one!
Profile Image for Anna Kay.
1,457 reviews161 followers
August 2, 2014
My brain is literally thinking in squeals right now versus actual words!!! Full review later.

FULL REVIEW

I was drawn to this book initially by the synopsis, which sounded really adorable. Add in the cover and I was taken in hook, line, and sinker! I normally don't bother just because I love a cover either, it has to be really tempting for me to give in and request it! I am so glad that I got the chance to read this book. I absolutely loved it and found it to be completely adorable, with the best kind of sassy humor and banter between the romantic leads. I've rarely seen a book that has the male character as a romance novelist (while being a straight man), using his own name and not a pen-name, and also he lives in the South. It had the possibility to be interesting and Gary succeeded with her character for sure. Red's completely awkward handling of his overtures toward Jessie was hilarious to watch. The botched attempt at night fishing, the cow tipping and the unthinking foot-in-mouth sexist remarks. But Red has an absolute heart of gold, as we see from his interactions with Jessie while helping her out, his scenes with his Mom and the times he holds his tongue and pretends to be happy for his best friend Jake, who won out their mutual best friend Miranda's love over Red himself. He refuses to hold it against them though. Also, his cat Orange is mean little bastard (as some cats are) and he obviously loves him in spite of/because of his orneriness.

This book is about Red Calhoun and Jessie Dale. Red happens to be a romance novelist, with a bad case of writer's block. Jessie is the interloper from out of town, who has bought Red's favorite bar and closed it down for renovations. Their first meeting consists of him yelling at her and Jessie calling the cops on him. So they really don't like each other all that much first. Then Red saves Jessie from the worst part of a bar fight (though she holds her own, hitting someone with a chair), which leads to a friendship of mutual snarkiness and banter. Before they know it, Red's helping Jessie renovate the bar and sparks are flying between them. But Jessie's perverted ex-boyfriend, who made sex tapes of her without her permission (and of other women he was cheating with), is released on parole and comes after her looking for the restitution money he paid out to her unwillingly. Can Red and Jessie protect their new relationship and can he keep her from danger? Or will it be too late by the time Will's finished with her?

The side characters in this book are fully fleshed out people, even Jessie's family (i.e. Dad, Stepmother and stepsisters) who she doesn't really get along with. I loved Red's sisters and his Mom, they were totally bad-ass bitches in charge! Also, Miranda "Rand" and Jake seemed like very good friends to Red, refusing to let the awkwardness of the previous romantic entanglements ruin their friendships with him. I think one of my favorite characters (outside of Red of course) was Ray, the cook at Jessie's bar. He seemed like a really great guy, who had caught a tough break for doing what he thought was the right thing. I hope to see more of him if there's another book in this series. April the librarian, also new to town, would be another good candidate for main character in another book. I was really interested in her back-story, as she's running from her past like Jessie was in the beginning of the book. Red was a great character, full of contradictions as a romantic and a good ol' southern boy. Loyal to the end, hotter than hell and a great friend - a deep-seated romantic. Jessie was snarky, sassy and extremely vulnerable. Her slow burn with Red was a beautiful thing to watch. The night fishing scene with them was one of the most hilarious/sweet moments I've ever read in a romance novel! All in all, I wasn't surprised by the ending but the journey was so wonderful that didn't matter at all. A few grammar and spelling errors here and there, to be expected in an ARC and nothing glaringly bad. Also, once again, that cover is perfect! The cover models like just like Red and Jessie and the pose sounds like the one on the front of Red's first book (plus they look so happy)! So cute! I highly recommend this adorable book to anyone that wants crazy and likes small-town romance.

VERDICT: 4.5/5 Stars

*I received this book from Books With Benefits Press, on NetGalley. No favors or money were exchanged for this review. This book was published July 8th, 2014.**
Profile Image for Margaret.
609 reviews14 followers
September 7, 2016
I just love these type of stories where the characters start off not liking each other before they realize that there is something between them – there is always so much tension and passion when that happens which makes for a great read.

So we have Jessie who is running away from a bad situation with an ex, and she finds herself in Loco, Texas as the new owner of one of the local bars. Then we have Red, who is a romance novelist (yep, he keeps that little bit of information under his hat!) who has lost his muse and is having a bit of writer’s block. When he shows up for a drink at Jessie’s bar and finds out that she’s remodeling and not open…well that is just not going to do! What starts off as a very contentious relationship between the two quickly evolves into one of friendship and ultimately romance – which leads to some fun times and crazy outings.

Unfortunately both Jessie and Red carry some scars from their pasts. Red is trying to recover from the events that led to his two best friends getting married, and Jessie has serious trust issues since her ex screwed her over really good. Of course all this leads to even more tension between the two and some rocky times as they try to figure things out.

She wasn't going to be used or manipulated ever again. She was going to control her own life, and her own orgasms. Which she could achieve without a six and a half foot redneck with linebacker shoulders and a grumpy disposition.

Apparently her body didn't know that though, because when he opened his eyes and stared down at her with irritation, she couldn't stop thinking about sex; good, old fashioned angry sex.


It was fun watching Jessie keep Red in line. She had such a way of throwing him off balance and not letting him get away with his whole alpha male routine all the time. But it was also really great to see Red step up and protect Jessie when her past catches up to her.

This was a really fun read with a great cast of characters (I just loved Red’s mom!) and a great story. I have not read the first book in the series (yet – I just bought it!), and didn't feel like I missed anything that wasn't explained if it needed to be. I can’t wait for the next book in this series…sounds like things truly are crazy in Loco, Texas!

I won an advance copy of this book from the author with no agreement to do a review, so this is an honest one!
Profile Image for Heather andrews.
9,520 reviews163 followers
July 4, 2014
Sometimes what starts out as weird, crazy and maybe even a little dislike ends in love and happily ever after, and the story that got us to the happily ever after was a fun read. Red that boy has no filter which is perfect because Jessie has no filter, "he grabbed her hands and head raced up her arms as he pulled her against him, his mouth several inches from hers. "No, I'm saying don't call a man short and d***less, unless you want to start a brawl in a bar." I loved the things that came out of Jessie's mouth it was surprise after surprise, "oh, nothing much. Your mother was just asking me about my plans to reproduce." Red spewed a mouthful of food across the table and Jessie whacked him on the back." Red he sometimes ruins the fun for Jessie but I could totally see where the boy is coming from, "we do not need to pull off somewhere and have sex in the back seat. That is how people get arrested for indecent exposure, you know." To be honest I don't think Codi could ever write a book that I would be disappointed in, all her books keep me entertained, and they are laugh out loud funny, and when humor is mixed into the story it honestly makes for a great read.
941 reviews
November 30, 2016
Surprisingly good contemporary romance that has good tension and building relationship.
Profile Image for Bette Stanek.
2,133 reviews3 followers
November 6, 2021
OK, slight confusion warning: Red Calhoun is introduced as Alfred Calhoun, but quickly is renamed to Albert Calhoun. ??? Red, of course, is his nickname and what he is called throughout most of the book. If his name is truly Alfred, Red could be his nickname because of that. Red could also be his nickname because he is a ginger. ??? It’s not really a big deal, just sloppy editing. On to the review….

I Want Crazy is a funny, cute, quick story about a girl, Jamie, who is trying to escape her past and ex by moving to small-town, TX. Red is a former football star who blew out his knee in college ending any hope of a career in the NFL When he returned home to recover, he developed a career as an author writing romance novels. In secret, of course.

The conflict? Jamie bought Red’s favorite bar/writing hang out and is renovating it. Red is NOT happy and he makes it known. But little by little, Red begins to feel a little guilty about bad-mouthing her. He figures he might as well get to know her since she'll be sticking around and he doesn't want to completely give up his favorite bar. As he does, he discovers he really likes the changes she’s making to the bar so he starts to help her get it done. Things heat up pretty quickly and then get interesting.

I Want Crazy is book 3 of the series, but you can jump right in and not feel like you’ve missed much. You can quickly learn the characters of the town and the relationships they share. Loco, TX is the perfect setting for these quirky characters. The story is pure entertainment with wonderful characters.
402 reviews
October 14, 2021
Just loved this romance..❤️❤️

Everything about it from the cute storyline, well developed characters (loved Red’s mom)...the humor made me laugh out loud..don’t miss this wonderful book by Codi Gary!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Profile Image for Devin.
8 reviews
July 21, 2021
Love love love

Another wonderful story about love happening in Loco, Texas. I can’t get enough of this series and hope to see more!
Profile Image for Catherine Crook.
586 reviews15 followers
July 3, 2014
Codi Gary welcomes you back to the quaint town of Loco, Texas in this second installment of the series. Red is in a rut! After having such success in his first two books, he is staring at a blank page. He takes a trip to his favorite local bar, The Watering Hole, only to see:
"Under new ownership. Closed for renovations. Sorry for the inconvenience." Meet Jessie. (Not short for Jessica! This gal was named after Jesse James) She was running from all the trouble California represented: an old boyfriend, a ruined reputation and a replacement family.
"You're from California?
"Wow, how'd you guess that one? Was it the way I said jackass?" she asked.
Needless to say, their initial meeting was anything but pleasant. These two couldn't be any more different. These two were so far from each other's types - the attraction was brushed aside.
"My, that was charming. I see what people say about southern drawls."

He was her BIGGEST enemy when it came to her renovations of his second home, the Watering Hole. So, when he suddenly showed up to help with the painting and shopping - she was hesitant, but knew she needed a friend and ally in this town if she was ever going to get her dream of owning a sports bar off the ground. They quickly develop a friendship full of witty banter and a strong underlying sexual tension.
"Are you saying you want to have sex with me?" he teased.
"Of course not. Look at your cuticles," she said.

"So, secretly, you think I'm sexy, but you're too damaged to admit it?"

While Jessie and Red get to know each other, you get to check in on our favorite newlyweds, Jake and Rand. "I don't know. My husband's Downton Abbey is pretty nice." Jessie gets to know Jake and Rand as her friendship with Red develops. It seems everyone loves Jessie! Jake turned towards Jessie and put his hand over his heart. "If I wasn't married, I would be down on one knee right now." I loved getting to revisit this couple! There were some friendships that were left a little damaged from our last visit to Loco, and it was encouraging to see the slow repair occurring. "I've always thought you were one flap jack shy of a short stack." You get a tiny glimpse of what is to come from this little family in the next trip to Loco, Texas!

Nothing is more fierce than a Southern Mama, and Red's Mama is not exception! "But I do make your favorite biscuits and if you ever want to eat at my table again, you better show me some respect." Being raised by a stern Mama and with 4 sisters, even though he had his Dad - Red knows how to treat a woman. (Even if is comes off as sexist!) "I am not a mama's boy; I am a man who respects his mother. There is a difference." When Red invites Jessie over to dinner after they worked long on the bar, she gets a taste of what Red had growing up! "Oh, nothing much. Your mother was just asking me about my plans to reproduce." Another thing, a small Southern town never lacks is gossip or advice - wanted or unwanted. "Well, if a Texas man brings you home to meet his family, it must mean he's got some serious feelings going on. "

As their relationship develops into more, their courting is anything but usual. Trespassing, attempted cop tipping, steamy late night texts and some romps in the bar that I am sure would be frowned upon by the health inspector! Red and Jessie both had interesting approaches to get their way in this relationship. I must say, I adore and welcome Red's approaches! Her mouth opened, like she was going to smart off again, but he dropped his mouth to hers, just to shut her up. She was hip to his "let me show you" moves after all, "You can't fool me, I watch New Girl." Time and time again, he tried to respect her wishes - but, he continued to open the door and show his Southern charm and manners. Even when it didn't come out so graceful. "Fuck it, I don't care if you want to talk or not, woman, I'm gonna have my say." By the last page, she wasn't complaining.

Codi Gary is by far my FAVORITE author in this genre. She creates these towns and these characters that walk off the page straight into your heart EVERYTIME! An easy peasy FIVE STAR to give to this latest book in the Loco, Texas series. With every text received, my heart fluttered. With every stolen glance, I lost my composure. With every grand gesture, I fell in love. With every page turned, I became an even bigger Codi Gary fan - as if it was possible. I will eagerly await every glance we get into the quirky world of Loco, Texas.
GREAT JOB Codi!!!
Profile Image for Red Cheeks Reads.
2,278 reviews373 followers
August 4, 2014
This is book 2 in the Loco, Texas Series but can be read as a complete standalone!

“Oh, honey. You picked the wrong bear to poke.”

I want to start this review by saying that I knew I would like this book, because honestly I have liked every Codi Gary book I have read, I was convinced after reading and really liking Make Me Crazy that I wouldn’t love I Want Crazy. Maybe it had something to do with rooting for the other guy in that book but I was not jumping up and down excited for this one. Boy was I WRONG! This is by far my favorite book by Codi that I have read and I was so involved in the lives of these characters I was hoping my own sons birthday party would hurry and end so I could get back to the book!

“He couldn’t stop the grin that spread across his face. Who knew Miss California would be good in a bar fight.”

The first thing this book has going for it are two amazing lead characters. First up is part time mechanic, good ole southern boy, Red, who happens to also be a secret best selling Romance Writer. I mean HELLO a super sexy male romance writer who is also a rough and tough man, YES PLEASE!!! Then there is Jessie, who is trying to escape some trouble caused by and ex and just wants a fresh start as the new local bar owner. She is tough and stands her ground. I loved her so much! After a rough first meeting, I mean he totally yelled at her for changing the bar! They slowly decide to be friends but can that ever really work?

“I made a mistake. Men and women can’t be friends. Statistically, impossible. One of the friends is always a little in love with the other or at least sexually attracted to them, and sex ruins friendships.”

Right from the start you can tell that their is definitely chemistry between these two but they are both so stubborn and out-spoken it makes it difficult for either to just give in and admit their feelings. Once these two actually decide to loosen up boy is the chemistry explosive, HOT! I loved it. Codi did it all right with this fast and fun book. I loved how sweet, sexy and incredibly funny it was. It had a little bit of everything I want in a romance novel and definitely will recommend to all my book loving friends!

“I don’t know. I’ve always thought very few men should be seen in their skivvys. Unless their names start with David and end in Beckham or start with Channing and end in Tatum. Otherwise, they need to keep their Downton Abbey covered up.”



~miranda
4,416 reviews28 followers
February 25, 2017
I Want Crazy review

I Want Crazy is the third romantic book in the Loco, Texas series written by author Codi Gary. I would like to read more in this series.
Profile Image for Crystal.
418 reviews
July 9, 2014
I received an ARC from the author for a honest review.

Meet Red and Jessie, two characters that are in need of a little change in their lives. Red thought he was in love with his best friend, but now that's she happily married to his other best friend, Red knows that he needs to move on. The problem is that no one has caught his eye. Jessie needs to get away from her douche of an ex-boyfriend and her father's new family. What should a girl do? Well, Jessie moves to Loco, Texas and buys a bar. From the moment Red and Jessie meet (after he bangs on her door demanding answers), we know they are in for a whirl of fun, laughs, and a whole lot of craziness.

I loved every moment of this book. It has just about everything I like in a quirky romance. Small Town? Check! Best friends and family? Check! Two characters that butt heads as they fall in love? Check! I adored Jessie and Red. Jessie tries to put up a strong front, but she's really hurting inside. She's afraid to open herself to anyone. What her ex-boyfriend did her to was really appalling and I just wanted to give her a big hug. I loved that Red's friends and family were so quick to welcome her to their group. I don't think she realized it at the time, but that was what Jessie needed the most. Red, on the other hand, is a romantic at heart. He's still nursing his wounds since his two best friend's got married and left him as the third wheel. I don't know which he needed most...a hug or a slap upside the head to wake him up. He's so adorably clueless, but I loved how he puts it upon himself to become Jessie's friend and shows her around town. Both as individuals and as a couple, these two characters were so damn adorable. I loved watching them butt heads and torment each other, all the while knowing that this was just how they got to know each other. Its safe to say that Jessie and Red will have a fun future ahead of them...

Although it is not required to read the first book in the Loco, Texas series before picking up I Want Crazy, I do recommend reading them in order to get the full understanding on Red's feelings towards Rand and Jake's relationship from the first book, Make Me Crazy. Trust me, you won't regret it.
Profile Image for Elizabeth.
1,151 reviews1 follower
February 20, 2017
My kind of crazy

Definitely my kind of crazy. Crazy enough to take a chance even when that other person aggravates you like no other, but in the most sweetest way when it counts. These two coming together just when fate knew it was needed they just have to let it happen.
1,353 reviews38 followers
July 6, 2014
Alfred “Red” Calhoun is a romance novel writer, but hardly anyone knows in the little town of Loco, Texas, and he likes it that way. He now has 2 books that have made the NYT Bestseller List, he has a new one due in a few weeks, but he has writer’s block, he can’t shake it, and he’s definitely not happy. He goes out to his favourite hangout, The Watering Hole, and finds it closed for renovations. He is getting angrier by the minute and almost breaks down the bar’s door when the new owner opens the door.

Jessie Dale is The Watering Hole’s new proprietor and is fit to be tied at the arrogance of her unwelcome visitor, even though he is quite handsome. He doesn’t want an uppity California girl to mess with the bar, and they argue rather loudly until she finally gets him to leave. He has no choice, if he is to let off a bit of steam, to pay a visit to the town’s other bar, Wyatt’s Tavern. Jessie is done for the day and decides to have a look at the competition. She is not scared of anything, and when one of the disreputable locals bothers her, she tells him off, and a fight breaks out when Red helps her. Not that she needs much help, but Loco’s rednecks don’t quite appreciate when a woman stands up to them.

Jessie is starting over in a small town, much like the one she grew up in. She left California because of her ex-boyfriend: unbeknownst to her, he had hidden cameras in their bedroom and sold the sex tapes on the internet. He was in jail but he had threatened her, even in court, but his sentence is finished, he’s on parole, and he starts sending Jessie threatening phone calls and message.

I WANT CRAZY starts off quite deliciously; the premise is innovative and fun. Red is a really big guy, a real country boy, a bit rough around the edges, but a real gentleman. He likes country music; Jessie has become a big city girl who likes pop music. They couldn’t be any different, and yet the attraction is there; they can’t help it. I really liked that the love story developed really slowly, from friends to more. A great summer romance!

56 reviews5 followers
August 18, 2014
Ever been to Loco, Texas? Let Author Codi Gary show you the way. During my first visit to Loco, Texas, I met Miranda (aka Rand) and her 2 best friends, Jake and Red. I fell in love with them and their crazy little town. While the book focused on the transition between friendship and love between Rand and Jake, I fell for Red as well, and really hoped he would get his own book……which leads me to this little reunion in Loco, Texas.

Y’all, meet Red…Alfred Calhoun. He is just the kind of crazy you need in your life. Unbeknownst to many in his small town, Red is a romance author….and he is in a rut with his writing. However, the words seem to flow easily after his encounter with the new girl in town who is going to turn his favorite run down bar into probably some kind of uppity place serving fancy cocktails.

Jessie left California with escape on her mind and came to Loco, Texas, where she purchased the bar and shut it down to renovate the place. Red has no problem stomping right into the joint and telling her what he thinks about her shutting the place down. The two of them bicker and fight like cats and dog….both are feisty, snarky and full of attitude. Their banters are hilarious, their tension and chemistry are undeniable. I love their banter….Red and his sexist comments and Jessie’s sassy attitude….they are a great match. I thoroughly enjoyed witnessing their story unfold. The author makes you feel just that……like you witnessed it all happening amongst friends. Their story is comical, sexy, surprising and healing.

I normally save my 5 stars for those books that leave me speechless for days….the ones that consume me, break me, and rebuild me. However, the author is a great story-teller and really hooked me again with this sweet and sassy HEA romance.

OH – we get a glimpse into the lives of Rand and Jake, as well as Red’s sisters, and meet a new fella along the way. I wonder if a certain chef will get than the second chef Jessie was able to offer him. Surely there’s a story there worth telling……right Codi Gary?
Profile Image for rj.
738 reviews344 followers
June 13, 2015
3 FEEL GOOD STARS.

This was a total feel-good comfort read that I desperately needed after reading about angst-filled rockstars. It was a simple story about a man and a woman falling in love. Their relationship progressed naturally and it was a delight to read about.

About This Book:

Red is your typical southern man who has the not so typical career of writing romance novels. How cute already. Jessie is running away from her past and decides to buy and re-vamp a bar in Loco, Texas. They meet one day when Red is having a bad day and he decides to go to his favorite bar only to find it closed and under construction. He gets a little mad and goes off banging on the door but Jessie is having none of that. When she comes out to confront him it's an epic battle of wills that sets the tone of their relationship. It was just so amusing to read, I think I had a smile on my face the entire time.

This is also book #2 in a series and I haven't read the previous one but I know Red has a major part, so if you're one of those who need to read in order then be sure to check out book #1!

My Thoughts:

- I loved Jessie's sass! This is what I want to read about when you say a heroine has a smart mouth! Most of the things that came out of her mouth were snort-worthy.

- Red and Jessie's banter was so cute to read about. It wasn't malicious in any way. Jessie just knew what buttons to push and Red never disappointed in giving a reaction.

- I loved reading about their relationship developing. They start out as enemies, form a friendship fast, and slowly fall in love.

Overall, this was a sweet southern story that left me smiling. I didn't mean to read it in one sitting, but before I knew it I was flipping the last page and it was 3AM! I didn't even realize how quickly the time went, I was just so engrossed into this story. You should definitely give it shot!

ARC provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Britanny.
27 reviews
August 25, 2014
Sorry I am so late with my review. I write my notes and happened to lose them.

If you have read Make Me Crazy then you are familiar with Red. If not then I highly recommend you read Make Me Crazy first so that you can better understand this installment in the Loco Series.

Red! Well, he is the cantankerous sort. His best friends got married, and now he is in a rut. He writes romance novels and is currently having a difficult time finding the words to continue his stories. He feels left out of the "love" that is his Best Friends. His chance comes when the local waterin hole is under new ownership.

The new owner, Jessie hasn’t exactly made friends. Folks aint too happy about her blond, Leggy, and being from California. That’s too different. But never judge a book by its cover. She has an attitude and the rev to change a small town waterin hole into something great. Also to change the mind of a disheartened man named Red.
After some heated words and encounters. Red and Jessie warm up to each other. But one's past and the other's career jeopardize their relationship. Can these two figure out they "want crazy?"

Country meets City. I was ready to put this book down once I read the description of Jessie. I am not too fond of the blonde and leggy. So very typical for romance novels. Especially since I want a novel to seem out of the ordinary and not have a stereotype. Jessie proved me wrong. She might be leggy and blonde, but she is smart, funny and an entrepreneur. She doesn’t require a man to take care of her. She only seeks a normal life, with the possibility of not getting screwed over in her romantic life as she has in the past.
I hate to give spoilers. So find out for yourself if Red and Jessie will be a good match.
Profile Image for Rhiannon Overby.
747 reviews21 followers
August 8, 2014
I Want Crazy is the second book in the Loco, Texas series. While this book could be read as a stand alone, I highly recommend reading the first book Make Me Crazy since events from the first book are talked about again in this book. I had not read the first book and wish that I had so that I could have a better understanding of Red and his relationship with his best friends Jake and Rand.

There were so many things that I loved about this book. First, Jessie and Red started off not really liking each other which lead to some funny back and forth bickering/banter. As their relationship evolved that teasing banter only got better, which really set the book apart. I also really loved how the towns largest man could be such a teddy bear and gentleman when it came to Jessie.

This book was a quick read but did not skimp out in any details. Be reading for a few chuckles when you sit down to read this book.

*I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion*
Profile Image for Michele.
2,259 reviews
August 4, 2014
Actual Rating: 4.5 stars

“Admit it, you think I’m hot.”
“Whatever, can we go?”
She tried to walk around him and he started dancing and singing, “If you want my body…”
“You are such an idiot,” she yelled as she walked away, fighting a laugh.

I was pleasantly surprised with I Want Crazy. Looking at the book cover and blurb, I thought it might be a cookie cutter, predictable romance. Instead, this was a snappy, humorous enemies-to-lovers romp that had me in stitches most of the time.

This trope, for me at least, is usually a 50/50 shot at whether I’ll fully enjoy the story or not. I tend to like the books that have a sense of humor about whatever issue is causing friction between the protagonists, not those that have a heavy, vindictive vibe.

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Profile Image for Rachael.
40 reviews5 followers
July 7, 2014
If this book doesn't have you saying I want crazy at the end then something is wrong with you!
Once again we meet Red Calhoun, but this time Red has gotten himself into some trouble with the law. All Red wanted to do is go down to The Watering Hole, AKA the local bar, and have a drink. That's when Red's trouble with the law days began. You see, The Watering Hole was shut down and someone was doing demolitions inside. He yelled and screamed and met Jessie, the beautiful Californian blonde who would forever drive him crazy.
If you are looking for a well put together story with Hero being the Romance Author then look no further than this book. Red and Jessie's story will bring you to the point of tears and then make you crazy.
Come on people! Who doesn't want a little Crazy?!
Profile Image for Mariel Hoss.
689 reviews6 followers
August 21, 2014
*ARC through NetGalley and Publisher in exchange for an honest review.*

This was CRAZY good, in the sense that it detailed a very heady kind of falling. The characters jumped off the page for me though, they had a vibrancy to them that went beyond the physical descriptions. So yes, I fell in love with both Red and Jessie. Their interactions were engaging and definitely entertaining...to the point where I could not turn the page fast enough. Supporting characters were vibrant as well and made me want to read their stories too.

The characters were cute, sassy, awkward, snarky, real. Definite recommend.

Profile Image for Olivia.
435 reviews26 followers
August 27, 2014
I friggin loved this book! Red was such a giant sweetheart. I loved that Red and Jessie didn't have an instantaneous love like, BAM! but you actually saw and felt them slowly fall in love with one another. They are perfect for each other. I absolutely loved the banter between the two! There were a couple errors where you could tell it should have said he instead of her (and vise versa) but it doesn't take away from the amazing writing and story at all. I very highly recommend this book and any others by Codi Gary! <3
Profile Image for Carol Burnside.
Author 16 books80 followers
July 1, 2015
I almost didn't read this book because of the cover. The couple looked like teenagers, but the blurb sounded good so I started it. I'm glad I did.

End result: this is a good read with a feel good ending, a stand alone book that's part of a series. Loco, Texas is a town you'd want to live in if you like small Southern burgs with flawed, but decent inhabitants. I enjoyed the town, the characters and the writing. I would read this author again.
Profile Image for Leila.
434 reviews41 followers
couldnt-finish
January 28, 2017
its not bad per say but its just not interesting. from the moment we meet the heroine... it took a downward spiral for me. i dunno why though. Sometimes you just click with books and other times you just don't want to spend five hours reading about characters you know you won't care about in the end.
Profile Image for Melissa Dean.
57 reviews1 follower
July 17, 2014
Give me more Gary...I love it. Red's story is so good I didn't want it to end. I hope the next book in this series involves his sister MJ.

Profile Image for Sara Luck.
800 reviews1 follower
July 18, 2014
Another sweet little story in this series. I'm glad Red got his HEA.
Profile Image for Stacy K Landry.
3 reviews4 followers
August 27, 2014
Great Read!

Great Read!

Loved the plot kept me interested the entire time and didn't want to put it down or end!
looking forward to reading more from this author
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