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Avoiding #2.5
Avoiding Intimacy
Growing up, Chyna was handed everything on a silver platter. She never wanted for anything, except love—unconditional love from her parents. Love was a foreign emotion, and watching her parents love/hate relationship was never easy.
So when it came to her personal life, she made sure she never had to relive that. With looks that could kill, it was simple for Chyna to be the love 'em and leave 'em kind of girl. And she had always been okay with it. She would rather be single the rest of her life then end up as miserable as her parents. So when a man rescued her after she was drugged in a night club, she never expected to start a relationship with him.
But one chance meeting changes it all. Chyna is offered a once in a lifetime opportunity that could sky rocket her career, and she is forced to make a decision that could ruin everything.
So when it came to her personal life, she made sure she never had to relive that. With looks that could kill, it was simple for Chyna to be the love 'em and leave 'em kind of girl. And she had always been okay with it. She would rather be single the rest of her life then end up as miserable as her parents. So when a man rescued her after she was drugged in a night club, she never expected to start a relationship with him.
But one chance meeting changes it all. Chyna is offered a once in a lifetime opportunity that could sky rocket her career, and she is forced to make a decision that could ruin everything.
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First published February 24, 2013
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About the author
K.A. Linde
101 books11.1k followersK.A. Linde is the New York Times, USA Today, #1 Sunday Times bestselling author of The Wren in the Holly Library. She is prolific in both romance and fantasy and loves the blend of the two.
She has a Masters degree in political science and bachelors in philosophy from the University of Georgia. In her previous life, she was a head campaign worker for a presidential campaign and the coach of the Duke University dance team. She loves reading fantasy novels, traveling to far-off destinations, and dancing in her spare time.
She currently lives in Lubbock, Texas, with her husband, and son.
She has a Masters degree in political science and bachelors in philosophy from the University of Georgia. In her previous life, she was a head campaign worker for a presidential campaign and the coach of the Duke University dance team. She loves reading fantasy novels, traveling to far-off destinations, and dancing in her spare time.
She currently lives in Lubbock, Texas, with her husband, and son.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 362 reviews
February 6, 2017
If you've read the first two books in the 'Avoiding' series, then you probably love Lexi's fiercely loyal best friend, Chyna, like I do. Every girl needs a Chyna in their corner. She's been there to support her best friend through thick and thin, despite Lexi's less than stellar choices.
From her first appearance in this series, I've wanted to know more about this mysterious lady. She plays the part of the spoiled, rich "princess" when it suits her, but it is clear that there is far more beneath the surface. This is Chyna's story. It was raw. It was painful at times, but it was everything that I wanted.
Chyna yearns for intimacy and connection. Mostly, she just wants to feel wanted...to be someone that somebody else cannot live without. She needs to be needed and loved. This is in stark contrast to the "tough girl" facade that she tries to project.
Like the other books in this series, 'Avoiding Intimacy' bounces back and forth between past and present, slowly revealing all pertinent details to readers little by little. While this can be a bit confusing at times, I think it works well for this series. In fact, it kind of became the signature-style of this series - a calling card of sorts.
As such, much of this story takes place during the same time period covered in earlier books in the series...just from Chyna's perspective. For much of this time, she was in Italy modeling, and away from Lexi. So, if you're expecting Lexi, and/or Jack, to be a central focus, then you will be disappointed. Lexi has a few appearances, but this book is not centered on her like the others have been.
Before reading this book I liked Chyna. After reading it, I loved her. This is one strong-willed, tough lady. Her story goes to show that money doesn't buy happiness. For a girl that seemed to have everything at the tips of her fingers, she was incredibly lonely. I gained a whole new respect for the "pretty little rich girl" after reading this book.
That being said, Chyna isn't perfect by any means. She is her own worst enemy. More often than not, she sabotages her relationships before she can get too close. As much as she craved connection, she feared it in equal measure.
As expected, Adam plays a significant role in this book. However, a new man is introduced that ends up being a major player as well. Marco is vastly different from Adam, but his relationship with Chyna proves to be equally important in Chyna's life.
One man is what she needs. The other is the embodiment of her darkest desires. Both want to claim her as their own.
Overall, I thought that this was another great addition to the 'Avoiding' series. Granted, I didn't love it as much as Lexi's story, but I did enjoy it quite a bit. I probably should have seen Lexi's books through to the end before diving into Chyna's vs. reading them in chronological order. I found myself rushing to get through this one, not because I wasn't enjoying it, but because I was dying to see what would become of the Lexi/Jack/Ramsey fiasco. I recommend reading books 1, 2, 1.5 and 3 before coming back to this one. Then, you'll know how things work out for Lexi and her guys and can savor Chyna's story.
Check out more of my reviews at www.bookaddicthaven.com
From her first appearance in this series, I've wanted to know more about this mysterious lady. She plays the part of the spoiled, rich "princess" when it suits her, but it is clear that there is far more beneath the surface. This is Chyna's story. It was raw. It was painful at times, but it was everything that I wanted.
Chyna yearns for intimacy and connection. Mostly, she just wants to feel wanted...to be someone that somebody else cannot live without. She needs to be needed and loved. This is in stark contrast to the "tough girl" facade that she tries to project.
Like the other books in this series, 'Avoiding Intimacy' bounces back and forth between past and present, slowly revealing all pertinent details to readers little by little. While this can be a bit confusing at times, I think it works well for this series. In fact, it kind of became the signature-style of this series - a calling card of sorts.
As such, much of this story takes place during the same time period covered in earlier books in the series...just from Chyna's perspective. For much of this time, she was in Italy modeling, and away from Lexi. So, if you're expecting Lexi, and/or Jack, to be a central focus, then you will be disappointed. Lexi has a few appearances, but this book is not centered on her like the others have been.
Before reading this book I liked Chyna. After reading it, I loved her. This is one strong-willed, tough lady. Her story goes to show that money doesn't buy happiness. For a girl that seemed to have everything at the tips of her fingers, she was incredibly lonely. I gained a whole new respect for the "pretty little rich girl" after reading this book.
That being said, Chyna isn't perfect by any means. She is her own worst enemy. More often than not, she sabotages her relationships before she can get too close. As much as she craved connection, she feared it in equal measure.
As expected, Adam plays a significant role in this book. However, a new man is introduced that ends up being a major player as well. Marco is vastly different from Adam, but his relationship with Chyna proves to be equally important in Chyna's life.
One man is what she needs. The other is the embodiment of her darkest desires. Both want to claim her as their own.
Overall, I thought that this was another great addition to the 'Avoiding' series. Granted, I didn't love it as much as Lexi's story, but I did enjoy it quite a bit. I probably should have seen Lexi's books through to the end before diving into Chyna's vs. reading them in chronological order. I found myself rushing to get through this one, not because I wasn't enjoying it, but because I was dying to see what would become of the Lexi/Jack/Ramsey fiasco. I recommend reading books 1, 2, 1.5 and 3 before coming back to this one. Then, you'll know how things work out for Lexi and her guys and can savor Chyna's story.
Check out more of my reviews at www.bookaddicthaven.com
March 6, 2013
What in the heck did I just read??
I feel like I just watched an episode of...
Seriously, I don't even know what to say. This book is nothing like I thought it would be. Well, okay, Chyna partying and shopping...yes, all that stuff with Adam, John and Marco??
No FREAKIN' way!!
I feel like...
But let me explain. What I thought we were getting was the story of Chyna and Adam and maybe some bits of Lexi thrown in. I get the whole "Avoiding Intimacy" thing and I was ready to find out why.
What I wasn't ready for was this...
“You’re a big f*cking drama queen!
and...
"For a while, I thought you were a mistake."
...Ugh...I was in no way prepared for that from sweet, loving Adam. I don't even know who he is anymore or did I even know him? I don't even know if I can stand him to be with Chyna anymore. And John...what a huge CREEP and now that really bothers me about Lexi.
I'm not even sure what to say about Marco but I will say that I'm disappointed in not getting more answers. I thought we might get some closure at the end but nada, zilch, nothing. I guess I can hope something might come out in the next book but I'm not going to hold my breath.
So, I'm sure you're wondering why I rated it as high as I did? Well, even though I wasn't happy with some of the people and things that were said and done, I did love Chyna...she is wonderful and I loved how much she grew in this story. It was really great getting to know more about her. I only wish that we had more Chyna and Lexi time.
I would definitely recommend reading the story if you're reading the Avoiding series....just go into it with an open mind.
Favorite quotes:
♥ "She loved the feel of his arms around her. It felt like home. It felt like the only home she had ever known…the only one she had ever chosen."
♥ “You. I just want you,” she breathed, wrapping her arms up around his neck.
His smile was contagious, and she found herself mirroring his goofy grin.
“That’s convenient.”
“Why?” she asked, unable to drop her smile even if she had tried.
“Because I want you, too.”
September 17, 2017
I’m just gonna throw it out there... I love Chyna!!! I am so happy she got her own book. This whole series is fantastic!
She went through life accepting the short end of the stick, thinking she deserved nothing more than what was handed to her. She fucked millionaires and bus boys alike, because she was gorgeous and rich and could get away with it.
“How do you see me?” she asked, seeing her reflection in his hazel eyes. She looked the same as always. “As so much more than a pretty face.” he whispered, brushing his nose against hers lightly. “So much more.”
It is no secret, I love the Avoiding series, and Chyna, Lexi’s best friend, is one of my favorite characters. We know and love Chyna as the fun party girl. She is rich, grew up in NYC, has fun. She’s not into serious relationships, and she has her reasons.
This was ridiculous. This was why she didn’t date people. She liked to fuck around, and it had always been okay in the past because she hadn’t been attached.
Now she is involved. With the oh so lovable Adam. We go back and forth, from the past (with Adam and brother John) to the future (with Italian designer Marco). Chyna’s life is a mess. She is trying to figure herself out, what she wants to do, who she wants to be.
It was great to get more Chyna. I hate to say this because I love Adam, I really do. But there were times in this book that he irked me. I wanted to hate John... but I don’t- I actually kind of like him ;-) Hoping we get some more of John in the third Avoiding book. Not sure how I feel about Marco, but boy is he HOT! Wow... KA Linde can write some hot stuff, and the Chyna/Marco scenes, those were super hot!
Overall, a fabulous novella! If you love the Avoiding series, you will love this, and if you haven’t read them, you should!!!
She just kept finding herself repeating the same mistakes over and over again. But, it was going to stop. She couldn’t keep avoiding intimacy with the one person she truly wanted it with.
Every saint has a past, and every sinner has a future.
She went through life accepting the short end of the stick, thinking she deserved nothing more than what was handed to her. She fucked millionaires and bus boys alike, because she was gorgeous and rich and could get away with it.
“How do you see me?” she asked, seeing her reflection in his hazel eyes. She looked the same as always. “As so much more than a pretty face.” he whispered, brushing his nose against hers lightly. “So much more.”
It is no secret, I love the Avoiding series, and Chyna, Lexi’s best friend, is one of my favorite characters. We know and love Chyna as the fun party girl. She is rich, grew up in NYC, has fun. She’s not into serious relationships, and she has her reasons.
This was ridiculous. This was why she didn’t date people. She liked to fuck around, and it had always been okay in the past because she hadn’t been attached.
Now she is involved. With the oh so lovable Adam. We go back and forth, from the past (with Adam and brother John) to the future (with Italian designer Marco). Chyna’s life is a mess. She is trying to figure herself out, what she wants to do, who she wants to be.
It was great to get more Chyna. I hate to say this because I love Adam, I really do. But there were times in this book that he irked me. I wanted to hate John... but I don’t- I actually kind of like him ;-) Hoping we get some more of John in the third Avoiding book. Not sure how I feel about Marco, but boy is he HOT! Wow... KA Linde can write some hot stuff, and the Chyna/Marco scenes, those were super hot!
Overall, a fabulous novella! If you love the Avoiding series, you will love this, and if you haven’t read them, you should!!!
She just kept finding herself repeating the same mistakes over and over again. But, it was going to stop. She couldn’t keep avoiding intimacy with the one person she truly wanted it with.
Every saint has a past, and every sinner has a future.
December 9, 2013
3.5 Stars
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Chyna is pretty clueless about life, love, jobs and relationships. She knows shopping, drinking and how to speak socialite bitch. I cringe at the very thought that she is Lexi’s “go to person” for LOVE advice!
This short story takes a reader in typical “avoiding style” present/past into Chyna’s first job and first relationship.
Chyna is attempting her first relationship with Adam Ward a REGULAR guy. Personally, I think he bores the crap out of her and his reactions twice in the book were pretty douche. Chyna is introduced to Adam’s hot, tattooed, older brother, John Ward, a Harvard grad business and the “kiss situation” that is mentioned in Avoiding Responsibility occurs. My thoughts…Chyna struggled at every turn on how great looking and confident and how much John is more her type. She outright drooled over him and flirted her Manolo Blahnik’s off.
Chyna takes a modeling opportunity in Milan working for Marco. Adam breaks up with her because she will be gone for the two months??? Chyna becomes “the star” of the line and to Marco. Her fear of failure and turning out like the other girls that she had heard rumors of, has her burning her bridges with this man and in turn the modeling world.
Let’s be honest, she barely thinks about Adam at all when she isn’t with him. She says she loves him BUT they don’t have a strong attraction or passion. For now, he will be safe until Marco comes back into play or any other hot guy that turns her head.
Overall, I found this to be an amusing read.
Thoughts on this series.. John is a distraction, to quote his Oscar Wilde, "Some cause happiness wherever they go; others whenever they go.", Adam is out of his league, Marco I would guess pays Chyna a visit, Ramsey ends up with Parker and JACK and LEXI get their HEA…the end.
Bring on Avoiding Temptation and please let this chica keep her love advice to herself!!!!
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Chyna is pretty clueless about life, love, jobs and relationships. She knows shopping, drinking and how to speak socialite bitch. I cringe at the very thought that she is Lexi’s “go to person” for LOVE advice!
This short story takes a reader in typical “avoiding style” present/past into Chyna’s first job and first relationship.
Chyna is attempting her first relationship with Adam Ward a REGULAR guy. Personally, I think he bores the crap out of her and his reactions twice in the book were pretty douche. Chyna is introduced to Adam’s hot, tattooed, older brother, John Ward, a Harvard grad business and the “kiss situation” that is mentioned in Avoiding Responsibility occurs. My thoughts…Chyna struggled at every turn on how great looking and confident and how much John is more her type. She outright drooled over him and flirted her Manolo Blahnik’s off.
Chyna takes a modeling opportunity in Milan working for Marco. Adam breaks up with her because she will be gone for the two months??? Chyna becomes “the star” of the line and to Marco. Her fear of failure and turning out like the other girls that she had heard rumors of, has her burning her bridges with this man and in turn the modeling world.
Let’s be honest, she barely thinks about Adam at all when she isn’t with him. She says she loves him BUT they don’t have a strong attraction or passion. For now, he will be safe until Marco comes back into play or any other hot guy that turns her head.
Overall, I found this to be an amusing read.
Thoughts on this series.. John is a distraction, to quote his Oscar Wilde, "Some cause happiness wherever they go; others whenever they go.", Adam is out of his league, Marco I would guess pays Chyna a visit, Ramsey ends up with Parker and JACK and LEXI get their HEA…the end.
Bring on Avoiding Temptation and please let this chica keep her love advice to herself!!!!
December 14, 2013
(3.5 Stars)
I have always liked Chyna in the other avoiding books, especially what a wonderful friend she is to Lexi, and that she is such a strong, confident woman. In this story she really lets her diva side fly, and is a walking hormone. I was annoyed with all the John stuff. Yes, he is hot, but no...just no. I didn't like her as much in this book. What I did adore is Adam! He is just perfection, and she is so lucky to have his love, and should appreciate him more for the sweet wonderful guy he is. & hello, Adam is hot too. Chyna gets an opportunity to model in Italy and Adam and her decide to break up for the two months she will be gone.So Chyna then takes off for Italy to model for the young, gorgeous fashion designer named Marco Moretti. She has an affair with him during her stay there. She lives her dream in Italy, but then misses Adam and returns home. Overall I enjoyed the story, but just wished she would have treated Adam a little better.
-The only time she had ever felt completely and singularly special was with Adam.
-It was somehow...more than anything else she had ever experienced.
-Every sensation seemed heightened, and she felt lost in his every touch.
-She loved the feel of his arms around her. It felt like home. It felt like the only home she had ever known...the only one she had ever chosen.
-He was the one she had to go through all the jerks to find. He was her end game.
February 26, 2013
WOO WHOO! MY FAVORITE BOOK BEST FRIEND GOT HER OWN STORY!
Not only did she get her own book, she has multiple love interests. Serious romance, serious sexual tension, with a dose of kink.Yeah kink. You kinksters heard me right.
However, all is not perfect, she’s struggling with lust, fear of rejection, and the uncharted territory of real love.
The story takes place from March, when Lexi was on spring break with Ramsey, to August, when Lexi is leaving for Jack’s wedding. Ponder that timeline! You know that you’re dying to know what really happened behind the scenes with Adam’s brother John and Chyna’s modeling stint in Milan.
Chyna encounters John in Avoiding Intimacy. He is totally Chyna’s type: confident, hot, flirty, and successful business man. Obviously flirting ensues, moves are made that can’t be taken back, and you’ll find out why Chyna ends up hating him so much.
Awww, and I won’t forget to mention Adam. Their relationship is the real heart of the book. What she experiences with him is totally new and confusing to her at times. She is a girl with a broken past, that only now is learning to build something real by falling in love. Will she overcome her fears of inadequacy and being left behind?
Like K.A. Linde’s other books, her characters have real, human flaws. I truly wanted to yell at all of them at some point. There will be debates over these characters and their actions to be sure. This is what fans of Linde’s books live for, the conflicted emotions.
You should also be aware that this is a novella. It is meant as a short story of 101 pages. The story comes at you quick, as you are thrown into Chyna’s world. Can you handle it? I think you can, and I think you will love it. Where as Lexi is a NYU graduate and lawyer, Chyna is a 22 year old trust fund, party girl. She cusses like a sailor and the sex is wild. It’s a fun ride, but know that Chyna’s story has a different tone than Lexi’s.
Which brings me to Lexi. It is so fun to see the friendship from another angle. Oh, and the infamous gay designer Fredrick, that Chyna loves to fight with, we get to meet him in all of his glory in this book. The banter between Chyna and Fredrick will have you laughing and pulling your jaw off the floor.
I felt the ending was satisfying and self reflective demonstrating Chyna’s personal growth. In true Linde fashion, the story has just enough open ends that you can expect to see the story continue into AC3. I think we can all expect to hear more from John in AC3, and this book shows some insight to his character. If you’re an AC and AR fan, you won’t want to miss this one!
Avoiding Intimacy
Not only did she get her own book, she has multiple love interests. Serious romance, serious sexual tension, with a dose of kink.Yeah kink. You kinksters heard me right.
However, all is not perfect, she’s struggling with lust, fear of rejection, and the uncharted territory of real love.
The story takes place from March, when Lexi was on spring break with Ramsey, to August, when Lexi is leaving for Jack’s wedding. Ponder that timeline! You know that you’re dying to know what really happened behind the scenes with Adam’s brother John and Chyna’s modeling stint in Milan.
Chyna encounters John in Avoiding Intimacy. He is totally Chyna’s type: confident, hot, flirty, and successful business man. Obviously flirting ensues, moves are made that can’t be taken back, and you’ll find out why Chyna ends up hating him so much.
Awww, and I won’t forget to mention Adam. Their relationship is the real heart of the book. What she experiences with him is totally new and confusing to her at times. She is a girl with a broken past, that only now is learning to build something real by falling in love. Will she overcome her fears of inadequacy and being left behind?
Like K.A. Linde’s other books, her characters have real, human flaws. I truly wanted to yell at all of them at some point. There will be debates over these characters and their actions to be sure. This is what fans of Linde’s books live for, the conflicted emotions.
You should also be aware that this is a novella. It is meant as a short story of 101 pages. The story comes at you quick, as you are thrown into Chyna’s world. Can you handle it? I think you can, and I think you will love it. Where as Lexi is a NYU graduate and lawyer, Chyna is a 22 year old trust fund, party girl. She cusses like a sailor and the sex is wild. It’s a fun ride, but know that Chyna’s story has a different tone than Lexi’s.
Which brings me to Lexi. It is so fun to see the friendship from another angle. Oh, and the infamous gay designer Fredrick, that Chyna loves to fight with, we get to meet him in all of his glory in this book. The banter between Chyna and Fredrick will have you laughing and pulling your jaw off the floor.
I felt the ending was satisfying and self reflective demonstrating Chyna’s personal growth. In true Linde fashion, the story has just enough open ends that you can expect to see the story continue into AC3. I think we can all expect to hear more from John in AC3, and this book shows some insight to his character. If you’re an AC and AR fan, you won’t want to miss this one!
Avoiding Intimacy
February 26, 2013
Abby, Brittany & Rhiannon’s Review: 4 Stars!
www.fictionandfashion.com
It’s no secret that we have a HUGE girl crush on K.A. Linde. This lady has repeatedly broken our hearts and put them back together with her books, Avoiding Responsibility and Avoiding Commitment. So when she so graciously offered up to us an ARC of her new novella, Avoiding Intimacy, which happened to be about our absolutely FAVORITE chica, Chyna, we pretty much flipped the f*ck out (there may have been tears of joy…NO judging)! We’ve had a love hate relationship with almost all of K.A.’s characters, but Chyna has been a consistant LOVE for us. We simply adore her, she is fun, sexy, outrageous, and hilarious! Let’s be honest, we probably would have enjoyed reading a book about Chyna doing her 2012 taxes!
“You have only a few years in which to live really, perfectly, and fully…time is jealous of you,”
It was so much fun getting a peek into the glamorous world of Chyna Van der Wal! We are all in the fashion industry and the fashion in this book is insane! Have you checked out our BOOK LOOK for Chyna yet?!?
“You thought I was the star—shining so bright. But you were wrong. You were the star, but you’ve burned out. Now, all I see when I look up into the sky are all my other options.”
Aside from the insane fashion, it was also nice to take a slight breather from crazy Lexi’s (don’t hate, she IS slightly crazy) world. We were however a little shocked with this version of Chyna. We got to see a slightly more gentle Chyna that we weren’t completely used to, but we also got to see the real Chyna, which really helped us relate to her throughout the Avoiding series. Now we aren’t going to lie, we did miss Ramsey (Brittany especially complained the most…but that’s Brittany, she is secretly already worried about the last Avoiding book). Don’t fret about Ramsey though..this book had plenty of HOT men to keep you occupied!
“I think he was madly in love with you,” she whispered staring intently into Chyna’s green eyes. Chyna’s mouth popped open in surprise. She was not expecting that. “Then you don’t know the first thing about love.”
We were finally able to get up close and personal with John, Adams’s gorgeous brother. John is everything that Chyna loves (but totes doesn’t need)! Needless to say there is a ton of flirting, hot chemistry, and fighting between the two. We were so happy that we finally got to know that Mystery Man. He’s successful, has a hot body, tattoos and is full of Oscar Wilde quotes {swoon}…No wonder all of the ladies fall into bed with him (we sure wanted to)! As much as we missed our fiery, confident Chyna we loved seeing her mature in this book and find out what (and who) she wants. Avoiding Intimacy is a great novella that not only ties up some loose ends from Avoiding Responsibility, it also has a cast of hot men to boot!
www.fictionandfashion.com
It’s no secret that we have a HUGE girl crush on K.A. Linde. This lady has repeatedly broken our hearts and put them back together with her books, Avoiding Responsibility and Avoiding Commitment. So when she so graciously offered up to us an ARC of her new novella, Avoiding Intimacy, which happened to be about our absolutely FAVORITE chica, Chyna, we pretty much flipped the f*ck out (there may have been tears of joy…NO judging)! We’ve had a love hate relationship with almost all of K.A.’s characters, but Chyna has been a consistant LOVE for us. We simply adore her, she is fun, sexy, outrageous, and hilarious! Let’s be honest, we probably would have enjoyed reading a book about Chyna doing her 2012 taxes!
“You have only a few years in which to live really, perfectly, and fully…time is jealous of you,”
It was so much fun getting a peek into the glamorous world of Chyna Van der Wal! We are all in the fashion industry and the fashion in this book is insane! Have you checked out our BOOK LOOK for Chyna yet?!?
“You thought I was the star—shining so bright. But you were wrong. You were the star, but you’ve burned out. Now, all I see when I look up into the sky are all my other options.”
Aside from the insane fashion, it was also nice to take a slight breather from crazy Lexi’s (don’t hate, she IS slightly crazy) world. We were however a little shocked with this version of Chyna. We got to see a slightly more gentle Chyna that we weren’t completely used to, but we also got to see the real Chyna, which really helped us relate to her throughout the Avoiding series. Now we aren’t going to lie, we did miss Ramsey (Brittany especially complained the most…but that’s Brittany, she is secretly already worried about the last Avoiding book). Don’t fret about Ramsey though..this book had plenty of HOT men to keep you occupied!
“I think he was madly in love with you,” she whispered staring intently into Chyna’s green eyes. Chyna’s mouth popped open in surprise. She was not expecting that. “Then you don’t know the first thing about love.”
We were finally able to get up close and personal with John, Adams’s gorgeous brother. John is everything that Chyna loves (but totes doesn’t need)! Needless to say there is a ton of flirting, hot chemistry, and fighting between the two. We were so happy that we finally got to know that Mystery Man. He’s successful, has a hot body, tattoos and is full of Oscar Wilde quotes {swoon}…No wonder all of the ladies fall into bed with him (we sure wanted to)! As much as we missed our fiery, confident Chyna we loved seeing her mature in this book and find out what (and who) she wants. Avoiding Intimacy is a great novella that not only ties up some loose ends from Avoiding Responsibility, it also has a cast of hot men to boot!
February 27, 2013
You may know that I'm a huge fan of the Avoiding Series. Not only do I love Lexi and RAMSEY, but I have always been a fan of Chyna's. So, imagine my excitement when I was told Chyna would have her own little story!
I simply adore Chyna. Yes, she may seem a bit bitchy, but she has her reasons and really...she's a softy. When it comes to those she loves anyway. Chyna doesn't handle relationships well. She's been more of a "one night" type of girl, until she met Adam. Which, at this point in the series, we already know. They've had their challenges as a couple, but we didn't know all the details.
So, AI takes you through the time that Chyna and Adam had some issues in their relationship. Chyna had gone to Italy for a modeling contract. At that point, she and Adam had broken up. The reason they had broken up had a little something to do with Adam's brother, who is also linked to Lexi and the fact that Adam has had problems with long distance relationships in the past. Drama, drama, drama. I won't lie, I was holding my breath. I was nervous about how that whole situation was going to go. BUT, I was proud of the way my girl Chyna handled it in the end.
So, back to Italy. Chyna gets invloved with Marco. They have a slightly volatile relationship. It was pretty hot at times and I can't say that I liked Marco exactly, but I understood his appeal. Of course, there is more to that story, but I leave you to read it. The bottom line is, the issues she had with Marco made her realize some things about herself. That's when she made her way back to New York.
Now, I have to say that I adore Adam and have from the time I met him. While he may not be the obvious choice for Chyna, I think he keeps her grounded and he really does love her unconditionally. Chyna needs that type of person in her life. Adam is the first person she's ever really allowed herself to love. So, while this novella gives you an inside look at Adam and Chyna's relationship, it also showed how much Chyna has changed. I had tears in my eyes at the end, because I was so proud of the developments she made.
Overall, I loved it. I felt like it was a nice addition to the series. I wouldn't say you have to read it in order to follow Avoiding Commitment and Avoiding Responsibility, but you will get to know Chyna, Adam, and Mystery Guy a little bit better. If you are a fan of angst, drama, steam, and a little bit of love thrown in, check this series out.
Quotes:
~She left without a kiss, without a goodbye-just with a million dollar dress, a sex tape, and nude photography from one of the best fashion designers in the world.-Loc 1550beta
~Leaving Italy had changed her, and she liked herself better for having done it. For having gone and done something great, and come back to find him still there.-Loc 2621beta
I simply adore Chyna. Yes, she may seem a bit bitchy, but she has her reasons and really...she's a softy. When it comes to those she loves anyway. Chyna doesn't handle relationships well. She's been more of a "one night" type of girl, until she met Adam. Which, at this point in the series, we already know. They've had their challenges as a couple, but we didn't know all the details.
So, AI takes you through the time that Chyna and Adam had some issues in their relationship. Chyna had gone to Italy for a modeling contract. At that point, she and Adam had broken up. The reason they had broken up had a little something to do with Adam's brother, who is also linked to Lexi and the fact that Adam has had problems with long distance relationships in the past. Drama, drama, drama. I won't lie, I was holding my breath. I was nervous about how that whole situation was going to go. BUT, I was proud of the way my girl Chyna handled it in the end.
So, back to Italy. Chyna gets invloved with Marco. They have a slightly volatile relationship. It was pretty hot at times and I can't say that I liked Marco exactly, but I understood his appeal. Of course, there is more to that story, but I leave you to read it. The bottom line is, the issues she had with Marco made her realize some things about herself. That's when she made her way back to New York.
Now, I have to say that I adore Adam and have from the time I met him. While he may not be the obvious choice for Chyna, I think he keeps her grounded and he really does love her unconditionally. Chyna needs that type of person in her life. Adam is the first person she's ever really allowed herself to love. So, while this novella gives you an inside look at Adam and Chyna's relationship, it also showed how much Chyna has changed. I had tears in my eyes at the end, because I was so proud of the developments she made.
Overall, I loved it. I felt like it was a nice addition to the series. I wouldn't say you have to read it in order to follow Avoiding Commitment and Avoiding Responsibility, but you will get to know Chyna, Adam, and Mystery Guy a little bit better. If you are a fan of angst, drama, steam, and a little bit of love thrown in, check this series out.
Quotes:
~She left without a kiss, without a goodbye-just with a million dollar dress, a sex tape, and nude photography from one of the best fashion designers in the world.-Loc 1550beta
~Leaving Italy had changed her, and she liked herself better for having done it. For having gone and done something great, and come back to find him still there.-Loc 2621beta
Read
December 8, 2014The impending release of another book in the Avoiding Series makes me giddy in my naughty places!!
April 20, 2013
I cannot wait for this book! Chyna's history with men, relationships, and her family make her such an interesting character. Not to mention, she's been a great friend. Ahh, the wait is killing me.
**AFTER READING**
I am disappointed with the ending of this. I feel like it was rushed: we didn't get more than a couple of pages of Chyna's history with her parents, nor did we get any insight or solution to that. We barely hear from Marco, who plays a major role in the story. And I feel like Adam is a bit of a... excuse my language, but he was being a downright dickhead. Some scenes were great, but the overall ending was just kind of awkward and there.
Regardless, I look forward to more.
**AFTER READING**
I am disappointed with the ending of this. I feel like it was rushed: we didn't get more than a couple of pages of Chyna's history with her parents, nor did we get any insight or solution to that. We barely hear from Marco, who plays a major role in the story. And I feel like Adam is a bit of a... excuse my language, but he was being a downright dickhead. Some scenes were great, but the overall ending was just kind of awkward and there.
Regardless, I look forward to more.
February 28, 2022
This should be good....Chyna has had some stuff she has been through. I hope the author gives us a happy update about Alexa and Ramsey. She also needs to let us know how bad things are going for Bekah. That would make me Very Happy! LoL
Want to read
January 5, 2013OMG!! I LOVE CHYNA! I can't wait to read her story.
February 27, 2013
ARRRRGGGHHHHHHHH....... That is not a pirate sound but a sound of pure frustration and disappointment.
I want to love this book. I always thought Cyna's book would be amazing well it was amazingly boring. Where I loved the flip flopping storyline in AC and AR it just didn't work in AI. I think the main thing being I already new what was happening when Chyna and Lexi spoke or saw each other. I felt like some of the book was on a repeat rinse cycle.
Now on to the boring men:
ADAM the little affection I had for him just went down and down. He was so not given a voice such a push over and never really standing up for Chyna when it came to John. Yes, he clearly cares about her and loves her but it just didn't develop into anything that left my heart racing and wanting more.
JOHN was probably the only one I thought had some potential he is written as a very hot, super naughty bad boy and that always has potential but, yes another but, knowing what I did about him and a certain lady it ruined it for me. He is an arse! Even what he did to "apologize" to Chyna didn't fly with me. I'm with her on this one.
MARCO okay It was so hard for me to picture him in a manly way. He is in fashion and a designer! I know that I am stereotyping in a huge way but I just pictured him gay the whole time I was reading. I read m/m books that get me hotter than Marco. I found his kink creepy and believe me I like Kink in my books.
Chyna's friend I can't remember his name did nothing for me didn't really even see why he was in the book!
So the one good thing and it is very small is in some ways I can see how this book was a self discovery of sorts. I say some sorts because I really don't see it. I feel her journey was a long and winding road that really led nowhere!
:(
I want to love this book. I always thought Cyna's book would be amazing well it was amazingly boring. Where I loved the flip flopping storyline in AC and AR it just didn't work in AI. I think the main thing being I already new what was happening when Chyna and Lexi spoke or saw each other. I felt like some of the book was on a repeat rinse cycle.
Now on to the boring men:
ADAM the little affection I had for him just went down and down. He was so not given a voice such a push over and never really standing up for Chyna when it came to John. Yes, he clearly cares about her and loves her but it just didn't develop into anything that left my heart racing and wanting more.
JOHN was probably the only one I thought had some potential he is written as a very hot, super naughty bad boy and that always has potential but, yes another but, knowing what I did about him and a certain lady it ruined it for me. He is an arse! Even what he did to "apologize" to Chyna didn't fly with me. I'm with her on this one.
MARCO okay It was so hard for me to picture him in a manly way. He is in fashion and a designer! I know that I am stereotyping in a huge way but I just pictured him gay the whole time I was reading. I read m/m books that get me hotter than Marco. I found his kink creepy and believe me I like Kink in my books.
Chyna's friend I can't remember his name did nothing for me didn't really even see why he was in the book!
So the one good thing and it is very small is in some ways I can see how this book was a self discovery of sorts. I say some sorts because I really don't see it. I feel her journey was a long and winding road that really led nowhere!
:(
December 11, 2013
Avoiding Intimacy by K. A. Linde 3.5 stars and 5 stars for the front cover the model is beautiful and perfect for Chyna!
It wasn't what I was expecting, I guess that is because I did not have Jack and Lexi to make me hopping mad and tee'd off the whole story, It kept me turning the pages and was very glad to get into Chyna's head for a bit.
I enjoyed the book, but not as much as the 1st and 2nd in the series.
Every saint has a past, and every sinner has a future.
It wasn't what I was expecting, I guess that is because I did not have Jack and Lexi to make me hopping mad and tee'd off the whole story, It kept me turning the pages and was very glad to get into Chyna's head for a bit.
I enjoyed the book, but not as much as the 1st and 2nd in the series.
Every saint has a past, and every sinner has a future.
February 28, 2013
Not so much a fan of Chyna as I am Lexi but really enjoyed the story, glad she got her HEA despite her mistakes..can't wait for book 3
March 7, 2013
Big fan of this series. Pushed it and pushed it. BIG FAN!
Bring on Jack!
Bring on Jack!
March 5, 2013
Hmm...What to say. I guess for starters I'd like to make note that I really like this character. Chyna as a character in the "Avoiding Series" fulfills so many crucial roles: best friend, voice of reason, resident slut, general badass...etc. However, I didn't give this story five (or even four) stars for A LOT of reasons. Namely, this character has TOO MUCH DEPTH to not have a full length novel. I'd have rather seen Linde finish Lexi's story and as a continuation of the "Avoiding Series" make Chyna the next main protagonist and give her story the justice it deserves, (even if it's only one full length novel) I understand that Chyna is basically the quintessential rich girl who harbors very clinched issues that we can easily pick out. I get it. Given that, I don't think that makes her story less interesting. It's about the parts you choose to focus on. It's like we landed smack in the middle of Chyna's life and were expected to sink or swim. Some of her ideas or story lines seemed a little rushed, cut short, or half explained; I was often just like "what" after reading some parts. Like I never understood why Frederick got mad at her...(after...you know whatever). The references to the Lexi/Chyna relationship dynamic could have been elaborated on through illustration more. Chyna plays a huge role in Lexi's life and I'd guess it's the same for Chyna, but we barely see that; it's said, not really shown. I don't know guys, I just feel like this story had a lot of potential, but kind of dropped the ball.
February 27, 2013
I love this series!
WARNING MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS!
This book was told from Chyna point of view.
This book starts off with the steam!
Chyna's book was one that I was not expecting it to be. It was very emotional. Chyna seems like a spoiled little rich girl. But a awesome best friend in all the other books. OHHH but she is so much more! This book took me on a emotional journey. You got to see how the story unfolded with her and Adam. From the fight about the kissing . In the other books from Lexie's point of view you got to hear about that in a phone call. But in this one you got the back story. You got to feel what she felt for Adam. The book goes back and forth from present day to in the past.
It takes you through her and Adam's relationship the ups and downs. To her going to Italy to try her hand at being a model.
Chyna makes it as a model but does something I don't quite understand to this day and ruins it. I wanted to scream at her! I also felt bad for Marco I really felt he "loved" in his own way Chyna.
But the ending was great! But I still feel horrible for what she did in Milan and what happened afterward!
This is a GREAT book that if you like the Avoiding series it is a must read. If you haven't read the Avoiding series.. it is one of my favorites and you should check it out!
WARNING MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS!
This book was told from Chyna point of view.
This book starts off with the steam!
Chyna's book was one that I was not expecting it to be. It was very emotional. Chyna seems like a spoiled little rich girl. But a awesome best friend in all the other books. OHHH but she is so much more! This book took me on a emotional journey. You got to see how the story unfolded with her and Adam. From the fight about the kissing . In the other books from Lexie's point of view you got to hear about that in a phone call. But in this one you got the back story. You got to feel what she felt for Adam. The book goes back and forth from present day to in the past.
It takes you through her and Adam's relationship the ups and downs. To her going to Italy to try her hand at being a model.
Chyna makes it as a model but does something I don't quite understand to this day and ruins it. I wanted to scream at her! I also felt bad for Marco I really felt he "loved" in his own way Chyna.
But the ending was great! But I still feel horrible for what she did in Milan and what happened afterward!
This is a GREAT book that if you like the Avoiding series it is a must read. If you haven't read the Avoiding series.. it is one of my favorites and you should check it out!
October 18, 2016
*Sigh*
Note the rating: It actually falls between 3 and 4 somewhere... just can't decide where....
I don’t know what to say. I LOVED Avoiding Commitment and Avoiding Responsibility… Absolutely loved them! Avoiding Intimacy…. I really liked it. I am not sure what stopped me from loving it. Maybe because it was too short and sweet? I really wanted more drama from Chyna. I felt like Miss Linde held back with this book. It could have been so much more…. We all know Chyna is a drama queen and attention whore, and I didn’t get that part of her in this book. It just seemed dry on the drama front. I was team Adam in this story, as I always was for her. There is nothing like someone finding themselves in love and immersing themselves in their one and only relationship. Maybe that is what I was missing. More of her and Adam. There really wasn’t much of THEM in the book. I think this book should have started from the beginning of their relationship instead of in the middle without too many juicy details. I want details. It is definitely worth reading, but it just isn’t at the level of its predecessors.
Note the rating: It actually falls between 3 and 4 somewhere... just can't decide where....
I don’t know what to say. I LOVED Avoiding Commitment and Avoiding Responsibility… Absolutely loved them! Avoiding Intimacy…. I really liked it. I am not sure what stopped me from loving it. Maybe because it was too short and sweet? I really wanted more drama from Chyna. I felt like Miss Linde held back with this book. It could have been so much more…. We all know Chyna is a drama queen and attention whore, and I didn’t get that part of her in this book. It just seemed dry on the drama front. I was team Adam in this story, as I always was for her. There is nothing like someone finding themselves in love and immersing themselves in their one and only relationship. Maybe that is what I was missing. More of her and Adam. There really wasn’t much of THEM in the book. I think this book should have started from the beginning of their relationship instead of in the middle without too many juicy details. I want details. It is definitely worth reading, but it just isn’t at the level of its predecessors.
March 10, 2014
3.5 stars
I really enjoyed Chyna's story! It was nice to take a break from Lexi and all of her nonsense. God knows she made me want to slap a bitch! ;)
After reading the first 3 books, I was prepared for the rollercoaster. I really feel that the reader can truly sympathize with Chyna for being so clueless in the love and friendship department. Growing up in NYC with divorced parents and a silver spoon in her mouth basically forced her to bottle in all of her emotions and force them far, far away so she would never have to identify with them.
We see her relationship with Adam basically spiral out of control, we meet Adam's hot older brother John, which causes a bit of drama and then, Chyna sets off to Milan to model and meets Marco.
God. Help. Us. All.
The scenes with Chyna and Marco were intense! K.A. Linde, I toast to you for writing some major heat girl!
If you are expecting to read about the Jack/Lexi/Ramsey triangle and get an update, you won't. This is all Chyna and worth the read if you ask me! I love the fabulousness of it all: the jet setting, modeling, Milan, NYC, cocktails at noon, etc.
Off to wrap up the series with book 3!
I really enjoyed Chyna's story! It was nice to take a break from Lexi and all of her nonsense. God knows she made me want to slap a bitch! ;)
After reading the first 3 books, I was prepared for the rollercoaster. I really feel that the reader can truly sympathize with Chyna for being so clueless in the love and friendship department. Growing up in NYC with divorced parents and a silver spoon in her mouth basically forced her to bottle in all of her emotions and force them far, far away so she would never have to identify with them.
We see her relationship with Adam basically spiral out of control, we meet Adam's hot older brother John, which causes a bit of drama and then, Chyna sets off to Milan to model and meets Marco.
God. Help. Us. All.
The scenes with Chyna and Marco were intense! K.A. Linde, I toast to you for writing some major heat girl!
If you are expecting to read about the Jack/Lexi/Ramsey triangle and get an update, you won't. This is all Chyna and worth the read if you ask me! I love the fabulousness of it all: the jet setting, modeling, Milan, NYC, cocktails at noon, etc.
Off to wrap up the series with book 3!
February 27, 2013
Let me start by saying I LOVE the first two Avoiding books! This one disappointed me. I felt like Chyna was all over the board with her three "love interests" and I didn't feel her sincerity towards any of them. I spent most of the book confused and not in a good way. I also wish there had been a preface to let us know where this book fit in in the Avoiding timeline. When references were made about Lexi/Jack/Ramsey I once again was confused as to when this book was taking place.
In saying all this, I still think KA Linde rocks and will read all of her books - this one was just a "miss" for me.
In saying all this, I still think KA Linde rocks and will read all of her books - this one was just a "miss" for me.
August 23, 2013
Not great. I was really disappointed with this book especially as I loved the first 2 books in this series. The sad fact is that Chyna is not really a strong enough character to carry a whole book - she was fine as Lexi's sidekick, but I just did not find her that interesting. her whole personality was completely one-dimensional so I couldn't really care less about anything that happened to her and as a result this is one of the most forgettable books I have read.
March 2, 2013
DNF ... I'm just not into this one at all
Want to read
March 1, 2013WTF! Why is the paperback version available for preorder and not the e-book version??
Want to read
January 7, 2013Damnit Lex!
May 15, 2013
As much as I want to find out about Chyna I don't think she can sustain more than 50 pages. I want the author to end this saga and move on!!
NEW STORY!!
NEW STORY!!
February 28, 2013
This wasn't my favorite. I guess I like china better just as Lexi friend. Little details I'm into Lexi and Ramsey story. This just didn't do it for me
August 6, 2013
Another great book K.A Linde.I'm really looking forward to the last one in this series...So seriously I hope it's not to long of a wait.
August 25, 2019
3,5 stelline
July 12, 2017
Adam is a patient guy
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