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Hazards #1
The Hazards of Skinny Dipping
This isn't a deep book about first loves or self-discovery. If you want a book like that, I'd be happy to recommend one, but I don't have that kind of story to tell. Instead my story is about rash decisions and finding out that your dream guy is bad in bed. It's the story of when I finally went skinny dipping, and how my life was never the same again. Oh, and it's also the story of my freshman year of college and realizing Mr. Right might have been there all along.
*New Adult Romance- contains sexual situations*
*New Adult Romance- contains sexual situations*
ebook
First published May 17, 2013
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3867 people want to read
About the author
Alyssa Rose Ivy
100 books2,487 followersAlyssa Rose Ivy is the bestselling author of more than forty novels with over one million books sold worldwide. She loves to weave stories with romance and humor, and she is best known for writing about college boys with wings. After surviving law school and earning her masters in library science, she turned back to her creative side and decided to write. Although raised in the New York area, she fell in love with the South after moving to New Orleans for college. She lives in Alabama with her two children, and she can usually be found with a cup of coffee in her hand.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 379 reviews
July 20, 2014
First of all, skinny dipping in your own backyard pool when no one’s even around? Pfft, LAME! And second, what the actual hell did I just read?
You know how being thrown into cold water right at the beginning can work pretty well for a story? That’s not the case here. So, the MC is skinny dipping in her own pool, right? Nothing’s wrong with that. (Except that it's lame but I already mentioned that.) And all of a sudden there’s a naked man getting into the pool with her. She says she knows him, that she’s Facebook stalking him and has a crush on him. But I don’t know him. I just “met” him and he’s naked. It’s creepy. He’s creepy. And he talks funny. The next thing I know the MC is having the most boring sex of her life. The Naked Man, however, thinks the sex was the shit, so he decides that from now on he’ll be her (needy, controlling, possessive) boyfriend. The MC was beside herself with joy.
Remember the preppy guy from the Van Wilder movie? [Click here if you need a visual reminder.] The Naked Man is JUST like him. Well, at least in my head he is. Okay, so now picture a guy like him going all possessive and controlling on the MC’s ass. On one hand I couldn’t help but laugh in his face, and on the other I was like “WTF? Is he for real?” He even went full-on Christian Grey for a second, talking about being the perfect Dom for her. That moment was both hilarious and repulsive at the same time. Of course there’s also this other guy, Reed, who is perfect for the MC, I guess, but he is fairly boring and he didn’t make me laugh nearly as much as the Naked Man did.
But all this was just the tip of the iceberg.
What bothered me the most were:
1) The MC
She is described as being spunky and having a “sexy attitude,” when in reality she’s anything but that. I found her rather dull and kind of bitchy. Her comebacks were without any wit or humor. (Come to think of it, the whole book failed to be witty and humorous.) Plus, it irritated me how every goddamned male character in this novel wanted to get into her pants. Dylan, Kyle, Reed, Ryan—they all turn into horndogs as soon as she enters the room.
2) The dialog
It reads like how I imagine a two hundred pages long conversation with Siri would sound like—monotone, lackluster and completely detached from any emotion.
The Hazards of Skinny Dipping + Me weren't meant to be. Nothing in this book captivated me. Not the characters, nor the storyline or the writing. It was as unexciting as the MC's horizontal tango with the Naked Man.
You know how being thrown into cold water right at the beginning can work pretty well for a story? That’s not the case here. So, the MC is skinny dipping in her own pool, right? Nothing’s wrong with that. (Except that it's lame but I already mentioned that.) And all of a sudden there’s a naked man getting into the pool with her. She says she knows him, that she’s Facebook stalking him and has a crush on him. But I don’t know him. I just “met” him and he’s naked. It’s creepy. He’s creepy. And he talks funny. The next thing I know the MC is having the most boring sex of her life. The Naked Man, however, thinks the sex was the shit, so he decides that from now on he’ll be her (needy, controlling, possessive) boyfriend. The MC was beside herself with joy.
Remember the preppy guy from the Van Wilder movie? [Click here if you need a visual reminder.] The Naked Man is JUST like him. Well, at least in my head he is. Okay, so now picture a guy like him going all possessive and controlling on the MC’s ass. On one hand I couldn’t help but laugh in his face, and on the other I was like “WTF? Is he for real?” He even went full-on Christian Grey for a second, talking about being the perfect Dom for her. That moment was both hilarious and repulsive at the same time. Of course there’s also this other guy, Reed, who is perfect for the MC, I guess, but he is fairly boring and he didn’t make me laugh nearly as much as the Naked Man did.
But all this was just the tip of the iceberg.
What bothered me the most were:
1) The MC
She is described as being spunky and having a “sexy attitude,” when in reality she’s anything but that. I found her rather dull and kind of bitchy. Her comebacks were without any wit or humor. (Come to think of it, the whole book failed to be witty and humorous.) Plus, it irritated me how every goddamned male character in this novel wanted to get into her pants. Dylan, Kyle, Reed, Ryan—they all turn into horndogs as soon as she enters the room.
2) The dialog
It reads like how I imagine a two hundred pages long conversation with Siri would sound like—monotone, lackluster and completely detached from any emotion.
The Hazards of Skinny Dipping + Me weren't meant to be. Nothing in this book captivated me. Not the characters, nor the storyline or the writing. It was as unexciting as the MC's horizontal tango with the Naked Man.
March 31, 2020
Review to come.
November 29, 2017
I didn’t love nor hate this book. It didn’t have something special and Juliet wasn’t always easy to like. Juliet is a sweet and loving woman. She becomes a different woman at college. She will get some new friends and she becomes more outgoing. I didn’t understand her relationship with Dylan. It was obvious to me that he wanted only one thing from her and there wasn’t real love between them. Juliet stayed with Dylan longer than I expected. She always belonged to Reed, because he was good to her. Reed saved this book for me. I loved him. He’s friendly, loving and fun. He works hard and goes to college. Reed doesn’t like Dylan and he lets this Juliet know. Reed likes being with Juliet and they spend a lot of time together. They become great friends before falling hard for each other. I loved them together.
June 4, 2013
Surprise. Surprise. Surprise. I loved it. This is a brilliant NA, it has a very original story, it's funny and very romantic. If NA/YA is your genre, this is a must read.
May 23, 2013
Fun, fresh, cute read! The Hazards of Skinny Dipping had my attention right from the prologue! Or maybe it was the cover…
Juliet is about to start her first year of college. She isn’t naïve or a prude, but she also isn’t a big party girl either. To make sure she doesn’t “totally drown,” her cousin Amy makes her a list of five things she must do before school starts.
While completely her last challenge of skinny dipping, she gets interrupted by the boy next door, Dylan. He’s a few years older and Juliet has always had a thing for him. One thing leads to another and they end up in bed together, something she always wanted. The sad truth smacks her in the face when she finds out he is seriously lacking in the bedroom. A few weeks later Juliet and Dylan meet up again once college has started and decide to give dating a go.
Juliet begins establishing her new life as a college student, sorority pledge, and girlfriend, and she also gets a new job. This is where my favorite part of the story enters--Reed. Him and Juliet have a few cute, funny run-ins around campus and through their sororities/fraternities and he ends up hiring her to work at the local restaurant he manages. They begin forming an effortless, slow building friendship filled with lots of awesome banter. He also becomes very protective over Juliet when Dylan begins showing his controlling, self absorbed, douchebag ways. An example: "I like talking to you, Juliet, but I love having sex with you." Really, Dylan? Ass.
As the story progresses Juliet has to decide if she is ready to let go of the fantasy she had built up around Dylan for so long. At times I really wanted to strangle her for not being more proactive, but on the other hand I loved that once she made a decision, she really owned it.
I enjoyed the relationship built with Reed. It goes through so many stages throughout the story and I loved every second. Their dynamic was interesting and intriguing and I constantly wanted more of them.
The voice of the story is great and Juliet’s inner dialogue had me laughing out loud at times. What I found refreshing is that even though there is conflict, it isn’t overdone or dramatic. There isn’t this looming feeling of secrets or dark pasts. It really is about the characters in the moment and how they will move forward from their current situations and I really appreciated that. While I definitely classify this as a light read, there is depth there and I really enjoyed it. It’s a pretty short book and I got through it really quick. I almost wish it had been a bit longer because so much happens from about 70% on that I would have liked a bit more time to savor it.
I recommend this to readers who are in the mood for something light that they don't have to think too much over. What you see is what you get and I enjoyed it. 3 1/2 stars.
Juliet is about to start her first year of college. She isn’t naïve or a prude, but she also isn’t a big party girl either. To make sure she doesn’t “totally drown,” her cousin Amy makes her a list of five things she must do before school starts.
”…but this story isn’t about the first four. It’s about what happened when I did number five.”
While completely her last challenge of skinny dipping, she gets interrupted by the boy next door, Dylan. He’s a few years older and Juliet has always had a thing for him. One thing leads to another and they end up in bed together, something she always wanted. The sad truth smacks her in the face when she finds out he is seriously lacking in the bedroom. A few weeks later Juliet and Dylan meet up again once college has started and decide to give dating a go.
”I was still trying to accept that the first time wasn’t a fluke-Dylan sucked in bed. Either he didn’t get the concept of satisfying a woman, or he didn’t care. The only think he had going for him was foreplay, and he didn’t even finish what he started.”
Juliet begins establishing her new life as a college student, sorority pledge, and girlfriend, and she also gets a new job. This is where my favorite part of the story enters--Reed. Him and Juliet have a few cute, funny run-ins around campus and through their sororities/fraternities and he ends up hiring her to work at the local restaurant he manages. They begin forming an effortless, slow building friendship filled with lots of awesome banter. He also becomes very protective over Juliet when Dylan begins showing his controlling, self absorbed, douchebag ways. An example: "I like talking to you, Juliet, but I love having sex with you." Really, Dylan? Ass.
As the story progresses Juliet has to decide if she is ready to let go of the fantasy she had built up around Dylan for so long. At times I really wanted to strangle her for not being more proactive, but on the other hand I loved that once she made a decision, she really owned it.
I enjoyed the relationship built with Reed. It goes through so many stages throughout the story and I loved every second. Their dynamic was interesting and intriguing and I constantly wanted more of them.
”I wanted him to kiss me. The thought came to me out of nowhere, but once I felt it, I wanted it so much it hurt.”
The voice of the story is great and Juliet’s inner dialogue had me laughing out loud at times. What I found refreshing is that even though there is conflict, it isn’t overdone or dramatic. There isn’t this looming feeling of secrets or dark pasts. It really is about the characters in the moment and how they will move forward from their current situations and I really appreciated that. While I definitely classify this as a light read, there is depth there and I really enjoyed it. It’s a pretty short book and I got through it really quick. I almost wish it had been a bit longer because so much happens from about 70% on that I would have liked a bit more time to savor it.
I recommend this to readers who are in the mood for something light that they don't have to think too much over. What you see is what you get and I enjoyed it. 3 1/2 stars.
May 26, 2013
Okay I've had enough, I can't do this anymore. This is just plain horrible.
This book is every feminist's worst nightmare. I mean, WHAT DA HELL? There isn't even one decent character in this book. All of the guys are portrayed as perverted assholes who only want to get in Juliet's pants, while the girls are mostly for flaunting and are used as sex object. Juliet's been terribly discriminated, and what does she do?
She just stands passively doing nothing.
Again, WHAT. DA. HELL?
What's sad is that, the heroine thinks that she actually has an attitude, well Pffftt... Reality check babe, you're only a bluffing B.I.T.C.H. who thinks every guy is hot and that every girl is a bitch/dumbhead too, like her.
Honestly, Alyssa rose Ivy's book were mostly okay, but this, this, is just plain awful.
And to think that I was kinda anticipating this book, such a disappointment. Never had I hated a book soo much since Altered. *shivers*
Oh and like every time, Alyssa fails to inject humor and wittiness into her dialogue, I usually pass it up, but this time, No.
No stars. Nothing.
This book is every feminist's worst nightmare. I mean, WHAT DA HELL? There isn't even one decent character in this book. All of the guys are portrayed as perverted assholes who only want to get in Juliet's pants, while the girls are mostly for flaunting and are used as sex object. Juliet's been terribly discriminated, and what does she do?
She just stands passively doing nothing.
Again, WHAT. DA. HELL?
What's sad is that, the heroine thinks that she actually has an attitude, well Pffftt... Reality check babe, you're only a bluffing B.I.T.C.H. who thinks every guy is hot and that every girl is a bitch/dumbhead too, like her.
Honestly, Alyssa rose Ivy's book were mostly okay, but this, this, is just plain awful.
And to think that I was kinda anticipating this book, such a disappointment. Never had I hated a book soo much since Altered. *shivers*
Oh and like every time, Alyssa fails to inject humor and wittiness into her dialogue, I usually pass it up, but this time, No.
No stars. Nothing.
December 1, 2014
The Hazards of Skinny Dipping is available now! Juliet's story is filled with both romance and humor, and I hope you have as much fun reading it as I had writing it. :)
February 21, 2016
This was a total waste of my time and space on my Kindle.
I mean seriously! The first 60% of this book didn't need to be written. I would have been happy with a flash back...wait no not even then. This is just crap.
My main issue with this book, aside from the fact that this book is so loaded down with shit you need a plunger to finish it, is that its written HORRIBLY! I could get past some sucky story points, but geez try writing a book.
This book is a prime example of Show vs. Tell. This book is all TELL and no show. NO feelings, no descriptions, all crappy dialogue and bad bad sex...
It gets negative stars from me
I mean seriously! The first 60% of this book didn't need to be written. I would have been happy with a flash back...wait no not even then. This is just crap.
My main issue with this book, aside from the fact that this book is so loaded down with shit you need a plunger to finish it, is that its written HORRIBLY! I could get past some sucky story points, but geez try writing a book.
This book is a prime example of Show vs. Tell. This book is all TELL and no show. NO feelings, no descriptions, all crappy dialogue and bad bad sex...
It gets negative stars from me
May 19, 2013
When a book taunt you like some sort of challenge, telling you that it’s different or the book is about something like this, or like that. I take the bait. So when I saw the blurb of this book and it says that it’s not ‘a deep book about first loves or self-discovery.’ I took the challenge I wanted this book to prove it to me that it isn’t cut out like the rest. That if I want what it says I’ll get it. I will get the honesty.
Turned out, it did. The Hazards of Skinny Dipping by Alyssa Rose Ivy isn’t a deep book. But isn’t shallow either. It’s a light read, something breezy and easy to read and relax with. It is also not about first love. It’s about that in order to find the right guy you have to experience bumps in the road. But the ride is worth it. It is also not about self-discovery, but not because it’s not about that doesn’t mean she didn’t discover anything relevant. Because she still did.
This book is about the hazards of skinny-dipping...to your heart.
Juliet’s cousin Amy gave her a list to do before she goes to college. She successfully did everything in the list expect for one: Skinny dipping. When she finally did it, a guy, her long time crush found her—things led them from the water to bed. But sleeping with Dylan was everything but romantic and pleasurable. Juliet left that night but seeing him again in the university made her reconsider, until Reed, the guy who keep telling her that she’s more worthy than what Dylan is giving her.
There is so much about it that I liked. The simplicity of the story is a breath of fresh air. Do the two of them have problems? Yes, they do have it too but unlike in other NA book that seems to be camouflaging painful events of their characters as deep personalities, the book focuses the straightforwardness of its characters. The simple portrayal of what they are is something I truly appreciated. NA could be fun, it’s not only about complications and heavy issues. And this book has just proved it to me. It could work. It’s a possibility
There's nothing much to say than I liked it. And yes, it all started with skinny dipping and ended up with Juliet being in the pool and still skinny dipping. But what matters is who’s with her now when she does it. Again.
3.5/5
Turned out, it did. The Hazards of Skinny Dipping by Alyssa Rose Ivy isn’t a deep book. But isn’t shallow either. It’s a light read, something breezy and easy to read and relax with. It is also not about first love. It’s about that in order to find the right guy you have to experience bumps in the road. But the ride is worth it. It is also not about self-discovery, but not because it’s not about that doesn’t mean she didn’t discover anything relevant. Because she still did.
This book is about the hazards of skinny-dipping...to your heart.
Juliet’s cousin Amy gave her a list to do before she goes to college. She successfully did everything in the list expect for one: Skinny dipping. When she finally did it, a guy, her long time crush found her—things led them from the water to bed. But sleeping with Dylan was everything but romantic and pleasurable. Juliet left that night but seeing him again in the university made her reconsider, until Reed, the guy who keep telling her that she’s more worthy than what Dylan is giving her.
There is so much about it that I liked. The simplicity of the story is a breath of fresh air. Do the two of them have problems? Yes, they do have it too but unlike in other NA book that seems to be camouflaging painful events of their characters as deep personalities, the book focuses the straightforwardness of its characters. The simple portrayal of what they are is something I truly appreciated. NA could be fun, it’s not only about complications and heavy issues. And this book has just proved it to me. It could work. It’s a possibility
There's nothing much to say than I liked it. And yes, it all started with skinny dipping and ended up with Juliet being in the pool and still skinny dipping. But what matters is who’s with her now when she does it. Again.
3.5/5
April 18, 2013
I had so much fun reading this book Dylan was okay but as I got to reading the story I kind of out grew him, not to mention he acts like a girl half the time, "I woke up in the middle of the night wanting you so bad, and you weren't there. Not even a note with your phone number. Your house was empty the next day. And are you are the only person on the planet without a facebook? I couldn't even find you that way." Reed now that hunka-hunka-burning-love was something else entirely and I really did love him, he and Juliet seem to have great chemistry:
"No. I'd rather be sleeping."
"If you're tired, you are welcome to join me." He patted the bed beside him.
"Really? Oh my god, I can't believe you'd be so generous."
"I like you, Juliet. You're feisty and fiery, and I know we're going to be good friends."
I mean he's good looking, "every inch of his chest and abs was perfectly sculpted. It wasn't my fault - it was impossible not to gawk at him." Don't you worry I wouldn't be able to help myself either. he seems to be genuine, "That isn't even an invitation. A piece of advice: make a guy work for it. It'll only make him want you more." I mean really genuine, "No. You don't wait for anything, You do what you want. If he really likes you, he'll find a way to see you." He seems protective, at the same time jealous, "No, you can't. Your jacka** boyfriend is holding up the line." He turned to Dylan. "You can sit down. We'll bring the pies out. Juliet, go help Justin in the back." He knows just what to say to make a girl feel special, "That dress could kill a man, but you already know that. Normally, it would have driven me mad." Sometimes what he says is just truly funny, "I'm hung, and you're stack." He pulled off my panties and tossed them. "If college doesn't work out for us, we can make movies." So as I said before I really enjoyed reading this book it was entertaining.
"No. I'd rather be sleeping."
"If you're tired, you are welcome to join me." He patted the bed beside him.
"Really? Oh my god, I can't believe you'd be so generous."
"I like you, Juliet. You're feisty and fiery, and I know we're going to be good friends."
I mean he's good looking, "every inch of his chest and abs was perfectly sculpted. It wasn't my fault - it was impossible not to gawk at him." Don't you worry I wouldn't be able to help myself either. he seems to be genuine, "That isn't even an invitation. A piece of advice: make a guy work for it. It'll only make him want you more." I mean really genuine, "No. You don't wait for anything, You do what you want. If he really likes you, he'll find a way to see you." He seems protective, at the same time jealous, "No, you can't. Your jacka** boyfriend is holding up the line." He turned to Dylan. "You can sit down. We'll bring the pies out. Juliet, go help Justin in the back." He knows just what to say to make a girl feel special, "That dress could kill a man, but you already know that. Normally, it would have driven me mad." Sometimes what he says is just truly funny, "I'm hung, and you're stack." He pulled off my panties and tossed them. "If college doesn't work out for us, we can make movies." So as I said before I really enjoyed reading this book it was entertaining.
July 9, 2017
One of the most horribly written book I have read!
Want to read
July 5, 2019🎁 FREE on iBooks today (7/5/2019)! 🎁
June 14, 2013
My Thoughts: I don’t know, when I saw this one on goodreads, I knew it was a must read. I felt like it would be great!
We are introduced to Juliet who is starting college soon. Right before college, she goes skinny dipping, in her own swimming pool. Sounds interesting, right? Well a neighbor guy she’s known forever decides to join her. She’s always had a crush on him, so you think it would be magical, right? They have sex. It wasn’t magical, yet he seems to think it was. In his mind, now she’s his girlfriend.
She starts college and he’s around a lot. He’s controlling and a jerk in my eyes. She also meets another guy named Reed. Now, Reed I could see her with. They started off as friends in a weird way, but it worked. Things were rough but they had some great talks and they seem to hit it off, but all she had eyes for was her boyfriend. Until things get crazy and she ends up not with him anymore.
She then gives another guy a chance, and she realizes just how things can be.
There is a lot of drama that happens in this one, and I feel like if I say too much I’ll give away all the story-lines or things that are happening or that amount to the big finale.
I liked Juliet enough but at times I feel like Juliet was kind of naive. I just didn’t fall for this story how I thought I would. I read a lot of young adult so its hard to love everything I read.
I did really like Reed, and he is what made the story for me. I liked the parts with him in them. I liked getting to know him.
Overall: The Hazards Of Skinny Dipping has an amazing premise, and I liked it enough, I just didn’t love it. I thought the To Do List was neat. I never really fell for any of the characters or connected with them very deeply. I’m glad I read this, but I probably won’t read it again. It wasn't a bad one, just not my favorite.
Cover: Its awesome. It is what attracted me to the novel in the first place. Very cute!
What I'd Give It: 3/5 Cupcakes
____________
Taken From Princess Bookie
www.princessbookie.com
We are introduced to Juliet who is starting college soon. Right before college, she goes skinny dipping, in her own swimming pool. Sounds interesting, right? Well a neighbor guy she’s known forever decides to join her. She’s always had a crush on him, so you think it would be magical, right? They have sex. It wasn’t magical, yet he seems to think it was. In his mind, now she’s his girlfriend.
She starts college and he’s around a lot. He’s controlling and a jerk in my eyes. She also meets another guy named Reed. Now, Reed I could see her with. They started off as friends in a weird way, but it worked. Things were rough but they had some great talks and they seem to hit it off, but all she had eyes for was her boyfriend. Until things get crazy and she ends up not with him anymore.
She then gives another guy a chance, and she realizes just how things can be.
There is a lot of drama that happens in this one, and I feel like if I say too much I’ll give away all the story-lines or things that are happening or that amount to the big finale.
I liked Juliet enough but at times I feel like Juliet was kind of naive. I just didn’t fall for this story how I thought I would. I read a lot of young adult so its hard to love everything I read.
I did really like Reed, and he is what made the story for me. I liked the parts with him in them. I liked getting to know him.
Overall: The Hazards Of Skinny Dipping has an amazing premise, and I liked it enough, I just didn’t love it. I thought the To Do List was neat. I never really fell for any of the characters or connected with them very deeply. I’m glad I read this, but I probably won’t read it again. It wasn't a bad one, just not my favorite.
Cover: Its awesome. It is what attracted me to the novel in the first place. Very cute!
What I'd Give It: 3/5 Cupcakes
____________
Taken From Princess Bookie
www.princessbookie.com
May 30, 2013
That it’s too aware of the times is my biggest problem with this one. How can I not feel thus with mentions of it not being a YA story despite it’s YA introduction (The Hazards of Skinny Dipping, right?) nor its funnier moments of a guy wanting to be the dom and the girl not wanting to be dominated. It’s aware of what’s popular and what’s out there. My feelings for this are the same when considering all those other books that poke fun at sparkly vampires and loves that consume.
The story itself is pretty straightforward: girl finally gets together with the guy she’s been pining after, when suddenly in the new place with these new folks, so many other options reveal themselves. But first, let’s consider the whole crew of men drooling over her. They all say she’s fiery/spunky/different or something of that variety, and to be fair she was all that. Except, you know, THREE men… or was it four? It’s so YA, more so as we consider that there’s really not that much to her… or to them, for that matter.
There’s added complication of the boys being brothers by blood or otherwise. Or the fact that one of the main contenders read absolutely perfect while the other read completely inappropriate. Really, were was the doubt at all? And she knew it too… how completely ‘lacking’ a certain someone was, though I have to say, it’s refreshing to encounter a dude who’s not ‘all that’. Then we get to Mr. Perfect, who read TOO GOOD in every aspect so much so that he bored me! No one was winning in this book for me! Where the girl was all fire and sass, the other guy a domineering and a no talent ass, the other guy was too much of a knight in shining armor for me (even the guy’s flaws felt like the right kind of flaws!)
I simply found myself wanting something to make them more than I’d pegged them as.
The story itself is pretty straightforward: girl finally gets together with the guy she’s been pining after, when suddenly in the new place with these new folks, so many other options reveal themselves. But first, let’s consider the whole crew of men drooling over her. They all say she’s fiery/spunky/different or something of that variety, and to be fair she was all that. Except, you know, THREE men… or was it four? It’s so YA, more so as we consider that there’s really not that much to her… or to them, for that matter.
There’s added complication of the boys being brothers by blood or otherwise. Or the fact that one of the main contenders read absolutely perfect while the other read completely inappropriate. Really, were was the doubt at all? And she knew it too… how completely ‘lacking’ a certain someone was, though I have to say, it’s refreshing to encounter a dude who’s not ‘all that’. Then we get to Mr. Perfect, who read TOO GOOD in every aspect so much so that he bored me! No one was winning in this book for me! Where the girl was all fire and sass, the other guy a domineering and a no talent ass, the other guy was too much of a knight in shining armor for me (even the guy’s flaws felt like the right kind of flaws!)
I simply found myself wanting something to make them more than I’d pegged them as.
October 31, 2015
I received a review copy in exchange for my honest opinion. as of now, this is not my full review, that will come soon. This is just my thoughts immediately after finishing...
I adored this. Yes, it was predictable and not what I expected. But by that, I mean it in a good way. I was nervous come the 60% mark and nothing was changing, but the last 3/4ths made up for that. The one thing I wanted more of was the characters and more back story. I felt we got a good chunk of Reed's past, but not a whole lot on Juliet. This borders YA and NA. NA enough because our character is 18 and in college and is obviously an adult doing adult things. ;) YA in the fact that alot of NA's I've come across, go in detail when things get heated. This doesn't. It goes into a little detail but nothing like some NA books get. This would be perfect for someone wanting to branch unto NA, but not wanting to be immediately thrown into descriptive sex scenes. Also, a perfect summer read. I read it all in a day. Cute read, would definitely recommend. I'm excited to continue with this series as well as read more by this author. :)
I adored this. Yes, it was predictable and not what I expected. But by that, I mean it in a good way. I was nervous come the 60% mark and nothing was changing, but the last 3/4ths made up for that. The one thing I wanted more of was the characters and more back story. I felt we got a good chunk of Reed's past, but not a whole lot on Juliet. This borders YA and NA. NA enough because our character is 18 and in college and is obviously an adult doing adult things. ;) YA in the fact that alot of NA's I've come across, go in detail when things get heated. This doesn't. It goes into a little detail but nothing like some NA books get. This would be perfect for someone wanting to branch unto NA, but not wanting to be immediately thrown into descriptive sex scenes. Also, a perfect summer read. I read it all in a day. Cute read, would definitely recommend. I'm excited to continue with this series as well as read more by this author. :)
August 30, 2013
I hate doing this. Picking a book obviously not meant for a 30-something mom of 2 and then beating it to death in ratings. But I had to.
Alyssa Rose Ivy writes great books. Very entertaining, easy to devour, and incredibly likeable characters. Juliet, the main character in this book? Not so fantastic. She was so weak compared to the likes of Charlotte and Samantha in "Beckoning Light." She needed a man....any man....to validate her. The entire last 25% of the book seeemed unnecessary. The other reviews about oversexed, chauvinistic males and vapid frat girls were dead on.
The book flows, but the characters are mostly forgettable and underdeveloped. The plot is borderline nonexistent, but it started out with plenty of promise!
Sorry. :( The Crescent Chronicles put this one to shame.
Alyssa Rose Ivy writes great books. Very entertaining, easy to devour, and incredibly likeable characters. Juliet, the main character in this book? Not so fantastic. She was so weak compared to the likes of Charlotte and Samantha in "Beckoning Light." She needed a man....any man....to validate her. The entire last 25% of the book seeemed unnecessary. The other reviews about oversexed, chauvinistic males and vapid frat girls were dead on.
The book flows, but the characters are mostly forgettable and underdeveloped. The plot is borderline nonexistent, but it started out with plenty of promise!
Sorry. :( The Crescent Chronicles put this one to shame.
June 9, 2022
2.5/5
this was something. the book starts with the fmc skinny dipping which surprise surprise is the title of the book. whilst reading it i was very confused cuz i thought it was a love triangle but it was not so all good ig?
anyways the "first" love interest was dylan who was this dude that juliet had a crush on and knew for a long time. DYLAN IRKS ME OMFG- he wasn't possessive, he was a controlling idiotic piece of shit and i very much want to brutally strangle him and kill him :)
on the other hand, REEEEEED is such a bae like omggggg!! tbh he was meh at some point but still he was so head over heels in love with juliet that it made the book tolerable.
juliet was a cute character and all but tbh i didn't bond w/her. anyways i like her not love cuz like this book wasn't rly it for me.
the book itself was cute n all but like at some point it felt like a drag yk. it got boring at one point and i felt like there wasn't a plot at alllllll. like it all starts with her skinny dipping but then what? like tbh it had noooooothing to do w/skinny dipping except like the first chapter. probs not gonna continue the series cuz i feel like i didn't enjoy the first book enough to move onto the second one. anywhoooo it was cute and non smutty ish? i would recommend it if u don't rly know what to read and just rly wanna read sm.
this was something. the book starts with the fmc skinny dipping which surprise surprise is the title of the book. whilst reading it i was very confused cuz i thought it was a love triangle but it was not so all good ig?
anyways the "first" love interest was dylan who was this dude that juliet had a crush on and knew for a long time. DYLAN IRKS ME OMFG- he wasn't possessive, he was a controlling idiotic piece of shit and i very much want to brutally strangle him and kill him :)
on the other hand, REEEEEED is such a bae like omggggg!! tbh he was meh at some point but still he was so head over heels in love with juliet that it made the book tolerable.
juliet was a cute character and all but tbh i didn't bond w/her. anyways i like her not love cuz like this book wasn't rly it for me.
the book itself was cute n all but like at some point it felt like a drag yk. it got boring at one point and i felt like there wasn't a plot at alllllll. like it all starts with her skinny dipping but then what? like tbh it had noooooothing to do w/skinny dipping except like the first chapter. probs not gonna continue the series cuz i feel like i didn't enjoy the first book enough to move onto the second one. anywhoooo it was cute and non smutty ish? i would recommend it if u don't rly know what to read and just rly wanna read sm.
Read
October 26, 2024Read it on Wattpad and forgot about it 💀
(I’m organizing the books I’ve read lol)
(I’m organizing the books I’ve read lol)
July 18, 2013
Review to come! :)
Update
First, a special thank you to Alyssa for providing a copy of The Hazards of Skinny Dipping for me to review!
Now, on to the book!
The Hazards of Skinny Dipping was my first "New Adult" read. While personally I have no interest in the whole "New Adult" vs. "Contemporary Adult" vs. "Adult" debate I can honestly say that no matter what you choose to call it I have to be in a certain mood to read it. Luckily for me, I found myself in the perfect mood for The Hazards of Skinny Dipping. I found myself laughing, sighing, cussing, grinning, and occasionally twitter ranting throughout the book. Which of course means there were things I liked.....and things I didn't.
I didn't like all the swooning. I mean ok I get it Juliet (our MC) is gorgeous and all the boys want to jump into her pants. But EVERY SINGLE TIME she walked into a room every penis in the vicinity would stand at attention and the horrible pick up lines would start! She went to a frat party and this was every man that looked at her:
And if having every penis imaginable thrown at you wasn't odd, how about the fact that the one she does decide to sleep with was HORRIBLE in bed?! Cue crazy possessive boyfriend Dylan.
From the moment he barged into her pool I hated him. Then he sucked (and I mean oh my gosh did you even do anything?) in bed, and the final nail in the "I hate Dylan" coffin was hit. I get why Juliet was attracted to him. He is older and super hot but there isn't a six pack defined enough or pockets deep enough to cover up a horrible lay in my opinion. But instead of her saying um no this will not happen again, she actually blames herself (at first) for it being so horrible! Squeeze me?! Then to top it off she decides to be his girlfriend and put up with his poopy sex for MONTHS! And don't you go judging me! I know it's not right to dump someone just because they aren't the best in the sack, but not only was he horrible in bed he was a giant JERK! That, in my opinion, is a perfectly good reason to drop his ass! But she doesn't! She keeps idolizing him and making excuses for his utter creepiness! There was actually a point where he told her to quit her job so he could take care of her! Luckily, as time passed she grew and came to her senses.
Another thing that really bothered me was the pace. A lot of stuff happened in just one semester of school. Love was found, then lost, then found again, and even though there was character growth I don't think it was timed right.
What a wonderful question for you to ask! The simplest answer is that I actually enjoyed this book. Even with the issues above I loved the writing, the character growth and the lack of unrealistic drama. Was it perfect? Umm no. Is it a nice summery read that would be a perfect "pick me up" after suffering a book hangover? Why yes. Yes it is.
Update
First, a special thank you to Alyssa for providing a copy of The Hazards of Skinny Dipping for me to review!
Now, on to the book!
The Hazards of Skinny Dipping was my first "New Adult" read. While personally I have no interest in the whole "New Adult" vs. "Contemporary Adult" vs. "Adult" debate I can honestly say that no matter what you choose to call it I have to be in a certain mood to read it. Luckily for me, I found myself in the perfect mood for The Hazards of Skinny Dipping. I found myself laughing, sighing, cussing, grinning, and occasionally twitter ranting throughout the book. Which of course means there were things I liked.....and things I didn't.
I didn't like all the swooning. I mean ok I get it Juliet (our MC) is gorgeous and all the boys want to jump into her pants. But EVERY SINGLE TIME she walked into a room every penis in the vicinity would stand at attention and the horrible pick up lines would start! She went to a frat party and this was every man that looked at her:
And if having every penis imaginable thrown at you wasn't odd, how about the fact that the one she does decide to sleep with was HORRIBLE in bed?! Cue crazy possessive boyfriend Dylan.
From the moment he barged into her pool I hated him. Then he sucked (and I mean oh my gosh did you even do anything?) in bed, and the final nail in the "I hate Dylan" coffin was hit. I get why Juliet was attracted to him. He is older and super hot but there isn't a six pack defined enough or pockets deep enough to cover up a horrible lay in my opinion. But instead of her saying um no this will not happen again, she actually blames herself (at first) for it being so horrible! Squeeze me?! Then to top it off she decides to be his girlfriend and put up with his poopy sex for MONTHS! And don't you go judging me! I know it's not right to dump someone just because they aren't the best in the sack, but not only was he horrible in bed he was a giant JERK! That, in my opinion, is a perfectly good reason to drop his ass! But she doesn't! She keeps idolizing him and making excuses for his utter creepiness! There was actually a point where he told her to quit her job so he could take care of her! Luckily, as time passed she grew and came to her senses.
Another thing that really bothered me was the pace. A lot of stuff happened in just one semester of school. Love was found, then lost, then found again, and even though there was character growth I don't think it was timed right.
But Octavia why did you rate it 3 stars if it had so many problems?!
What a wonderful question for you to ask! The simplest answer is that I actually enjoyed this book. Even with the issues above I loved the writing, the character growth and the lack of unrealistic drama. Was it perfect? Umm no. Is it a nice summery read that would be a perfect "pick me up" after suffering a book hangover? Why yes. Yes it is.
*I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for a honest review*
May 23, 2013
‘This story is about skinny dipping, remember?
One last piece of advice: if you decide to go skinny dipping, make sure your bring a towel.’
As the blurb of the story says: this is not a story about first loves or self discovery. It was about rash decisions, finally scoring with the guy you’ve been crushing on forever but finding out that despite the good looks he utterly sucked in bed add up to this equation is the presence of this baseball cap wearing hot guy who works on a pizza place.
I just got out of College (Yay! For me for finishing it) but tbh I never had that kind of experience/s that stories like this told. Yes, I did try some ridiculous stuff but nothing too extreme or stupid enough. And for once, I envy the courage that characters from fiction-world have for doing some sassy and ridiculous things.
The Hazards of Skinny Dipping is a creative and a pretty interesting story. Who wouldn’t be interested with skinny dipping? lol. Its captivating premise really lived up well to my expectations.
Juliet with her spunky attitude and being able to handle her self on her own makes me like her. Even though at times she makes rash decisions that makes me want to roundhouse kick her – I do understand where she’s really coming from another plus side is that I love her relationship with her cousin Amy.
Dylan – the disappointing man in bed. *evil grin* At first encounter, I know something was off with this guy and luckily I didn’t really root for him and though he seems to be a big deal on the story I know and I’m confident enough to know that he’ll never be a threat for anything that is coming.
Reed was what I would like to call the underdog character. He didn’t come up flaunty and he has his pa-mysterious effect on him but despite that he has a strong sense of character that makes him stand out among the guys.
The characters on this story seems to be the easiest set of characters that I’ve encountered – I know and loved who deserved to be really loved and loathed the people who should really be loathed. There is a great balance and dynamic between the characters on this book which makes the reading experience easy and much better.
I have a lot of ‘I thought..’ moments while reading this.
Like how I thought Kyle would be the one for Juliet but nope he acts out like his brother – like a douche.
I thought Reed would come off as the guy that I would hate but nope coz he’s a good guy through and through.
I thought Amy and Reed we’re secretly or have a romantic past but nope. This is a definite wrong assumption, but they do know each other.
And all of this ‘I thought.. moments ends up being on the wrong side of my thinking, I didn't even get a thing right. Haha.
A little concern: does the cover really did look similar with A Summer To Remember? It looked eerily similar and I first read that book so now I don’t know who originally own that cover art but anyway it was used appropriately for the story so no big drama over there – just being my little curios self.
In everything that happened on this book, the funny and hilarious moments do stand out for me. This is what you should read if you want to just simply enjoy reading – no dramas and heavy stuffs. The story line is unique and The Hazards for Skinny Dipping belongs to its own category.
*Advanced copy kindly provided for review*
*Blog Tour deets posted at Reads and Thoughts.
One last piece of advice: if you decide to go skinny dipping, make sure your bring a towel.’
As the blurb of the story says: this is not a story about first loves or self discovery. It was about rash decisions, finally scoring with the guy you’ve been crushing on forever but finding out that despite the good looks he utterly sucked in bed add up to this equation is the presence of this baseball cap wearing hot guy who works on a pizza place.
I just got out of College (Yay! For me for finishing it) but tbh I never had that kind of experience/s that stories like this told. Yes, I did try some ridiculous stuff but nothing too extreme or stupid enough. And for once, I envy the courage that characters from fiction-world have for doing some sassy and ridiculous things.
The Hazards of Skinny Dipping is a creative and a pretty interesting story. Who wouldn’t be interested with skinny dipping? lol. Its captivating premise really lived up well to my expectations.
Juliet with her spunky attitude and being able to handle her self on her own makes me like her. Even though at times she makes rash decisions that makes me want to roundhouse kick her – I do understand where she’s really coming from another plus side is that I love her relationship with her cousin Amy.
Dylan – the disappointing man in bed. *evil grin* At first encounter, I know something was off with this guy and luckily I didn’t really root for him and though he seems to be a big deal on the story I know and I’m confident enough to know that he’ll never be a threat for anything that is coming.
Reed was what I would like to call the underdog character. He didn’t come up flaunty and he has his pa-mysterious effect on him but despite that he has a strong sense of character that makes him stand out among the guys.
The characters on this story seems to be the easiest set of characters that I’ve encountered – I know and loved who deserved to be really loved and loathed the people who should really be loathed. There is a great balance and dynamic between the characters on this book which makes the reading experience easy and much better.
I have a lot of ‘I thought..’ moments while reading this.
Like how I thought Kyle would be the one for Juliet but nope he acts out like his brother – like a douche.
I thought Reed would come off as the guy that I would hate but nope coz he’s a good guy through and through.
I thought Amy and Reed we’re secretly or have a romantic past but nope. This is a definite wrong assumption, but they do know each other.
And all of this ‘I thought.. moments ends up being on the wrong side of my thinking, I didn't even get a thing right. Haha.
A little concern: does the cover really did look similar with A Summer To Remember? It looked eerily similar and I first read that book so now I don’t know who originally own that cover art but anyway it was used appropriately for the story so no big drama over there – just being my little curios self.
In everything that happened on this book, the funny and hilarious moments do stand out for me. This is what you should read if you want to just simply enjoy reading – no dramas and heavy stuffs. The story line is unique and The Hazards for Skinny Dipping belongs to its own category.
*Advanced copy kindly provided for review*
*Blog Tour deets posted at Reads and Thoughts.
June 1, 2013
I am a huge fan of Alyssa Rose Ivy's and I haven't read a book she has written that I didn't like. The Hazards of Skinny Dipping was no exception. I had been looking forward to reading this and Ivy delivered yet another great read. The book begins with Juliet finding herself at her family's beach house shortly before starting college. Everyone has gone and it's just her. It's been a summer to remember - one in which she has been completing a "challenge" of sort from her cousin, which is why she is skinny dipping in the pool behind her house......where she thinks she is alone and no one will see her......not. Dylan's family owns the beach house next door. Dylan is a few years older than Juliet and she has been crushing on him what seems like forever. She has really set him up on a pedestal in her own mind, but the real Dylan, as hot as he may be, doesn't quite play the part Juliet has scripted in her mind for him the way she wrote it. In fact, when she begins her freshman year at college, Dylan isn't what she expected at all. Juliet is pledging a sorority also, and it is at one of these events that she meets Reed. Reed is a great friend to her, looks out for her, gives her a job, and fills the role of a big brother, but is the big brother role the one Juliet and Reed really want him to fill? Which one is Mr. Right, which one is Mr. Wrong, and when her world comes crushing in around her, will Juliet's heart be intact by the time she finds out the answer to the question?
I really enjoyed The Hazards of Skinny Dipping. I liked the fact that Juliet wasn't the perfect little virgin that we have been seeing in many of the NA stories recently. She's kind of snarky, has an attitude, and speaks her mind....most of the time, but I found her really likable. I also enjoyed the relationship between Juliet and her cousin Amy, which was fun. Dylan was a hottie, but a jerk, and comes across as a real douche-bag. He really seems to care for Juliet in his own way, but is it enough to make him change? Reed, on the other hand, I absolutely loved everything about him. Juliet thinks she does to, but when the truth comes out, Juliet has to rethink everything she has come to know about him. Despite it all, I am team Reed, though you'll have to read the book to find out who's team Juliet winds up on. I did want to shake her a couple of times so she would see what was right in front of her. Everything she experiences does help her character mature, even if it takes her a while to make the right decisions. In the romance department, there were some really sizzling moments and some moments that definitely lacked the sizzle, which makes the bedroom scenes interesting, sometimes funny, hot, and sometimes not so hot.
Overall, I did really enjoy this book. Juliet ends where she began, but with a whole new perspective on life, love, and the hazards of skinny dipping. If you enjoy NA contemporary romance, then I would definitely recommend checking this book out.
I really enjoyed The Hazards of Skinny Dipping. I liked the fact that Juliet wasn't the perfect little virgin that we have been seeing in many of the NA stories recently. She's kind of snarky, has an attitude, and speaks her mind....most of the time, but I found her really likable. I also enjoyed the relationship between Juliet and her cousin Amy, which was fun. Dylan was a hottie, but a jerk, and comes across as a real douche-bag. He really seems to care for Juliet in his own way, but is it enough to make him change? Reed, on the other hand, I absolutely loved everything about him. Juliet thinks she does to, but when the truth comes out, Juliet has to rethink everything she has come to know about him. Despite it all, I am team Reed, though you'll have to read the book to find out who's team Juliet winds up on. I did want to shake her a couple of times so she would see what was right in front of her. Everything she experiences does help her character mature, even if it takes her a while to make the right decisions. In the romance department, there were some really sizzling moments and some moments that definitely lacked the sizzle, which makes the bedroom scenes interesting, sometimes funny, hot, and sometimes not so hot.
Overall, I did really enjoy this book. Juliet ends where she began, but with a whole new perspective on life, love, and the hazards of skinny dipping. If you enjoy NA contemporary romance, then I would definitely recommend checking this book out.
June 1, 2013
Once again Alyssa Rose Ivy has written a book that I thoroughly enjoyed. There were quite a few things about The Hazards of Skinny Dipping that hit home for me. But what made the story for me was the relationship between Juliet and Reed. This book is about new starts, life lessons, and becoming your own person...and maybe falling in love along the way.
What I loved about Juliet was that she wasn't a naive girl. The beginning of the book starts off in a bold way, but I liked that. It showed me that Juliet had a sense of adventure and whether she realized it or not, confidence. Juliet is about to start college and she has a list of tasks she needs to complete before she starts. Well, not only does she complete those tasks, but she finally gets the guy she's always wanted. But is he really what she wants? The guy, Dylan, was someone she sort of grew up with. She's had a massive crush on him for years. Now, he's finally noticed her, but it turns out that he's a bit controlling and terrible in bed. Eek. Dylan also goes to the same college that she goes to and they begin dating. When she gets to the college, she joins a sorority. Her college experience is what reminded me of my own. I went out of state for college, knew no one, and joined a sorority to meet people. I remember having the same feelings about the whole process that Juliet had. Again, like Juliet, I valued the relationships I made and the experiences I gained as a result of being part of a sorority. Of course through the sorority, she gets to interact with yummy guys. One of those guys is Reed. I absolutely adored him.
There are so many things I liked about Reed. He's responsible, sweet, sincere, and funny. There was depth to his character too. I won't tell you about that, but know that his past helped Juliet in a way. Reed and Juliet started off as friends because of her relationship with Dylan. I liked that they both looked forward to hanging out together. There was an ease to their friendship. Of course, Reed wanted more with Juliet, but it took time. I want to note that this isn't a love triangle situation. There really was no competition of which guy was better either. Reed far outshone Dylan, in my opinion. I think many would agree with me on that. Anyway, I was happy when Juliet and Reed finally got together. I felt like they were a really great match.
Overall, I really enjoyed The Hazards of Skinny Dipping. I'd definitely recommend it, like any other of Ivy's books. Not only is there a great love story, but the reader gets to see the characters experience life and learn from it. If you are a fan of New Adult Contemporary Romances, you should check this one out.
Quotes:
~Amazing? Did we experience the same thing? But this was Dylan Bradley. Clearly, the problem was me. "Yeah, definitely."-Loc 267
~Bondage and bad sex? Not happening.-Loc 1633
What I loved about Juliet was that she wasn't a naive girl. The beginning of the book starts off in a bold way, but I liked that. It showed me that Juliet had a sense of adventure and whether she realized it or not, confidence. Juliet is about to start college and she has a list of tasks she needs to complete before she starts. Well, not only does she complete those tasks, but she finally gets the guy she's always wanted. But is he really what she wants? The guy, Dylan, was someone she sort of grew up with. She's had a massive crush on him for years. Now, he's finally noticed her, but it turns out that he's a bit controlling and terrible in bed. Eek. Dylan also goes to the same college that she goes to and they begin dating. When she gets to the college, she joins a sorority. Her college experience is what reminded me of my own. I went out of state for college, knew no one, and joined a sorority to meet people. I remember having the same feelings about the whole process that Juliet had. Again, like Juliet, I valued the relationships I made and the experiences I gained as a result of being part of a sorority. Of course through the sorority, she gets to interact with yummy guys. One of those guys is Reed. I absolutely adored him.
There are so many things I liked about Reed. He's responsible, sweet, sincere, and funny. There was depth to his character too. I won't tell you about that, but know that his past helped Juliet in a way. Reed and Juliet started off as friends because of her relationship with Dylan. I liked that they both looked forward to hanging out together. There was an ease to their friendship. Of course, Reed wanted more with Juliet, but it took time. I want to note that this isn't a love triangle situation. There really was no competition of which guy was better either. Reed far outshone Dylan, in my opinion. I think many would agree with me on that. Anyway, I was happy when Juliet and Reed finally got together. I felt like they were a really great match.
Overall, I really enjoyed The Hazards of Skinny Dipping. I'd definitely recommend it, like any other of Ivy's books. Not only is there a great love story, but the reader gets to see the characters experience life and learn from it. If you are a fan of New Adult Contemporary Romances, you should check this one out.
Quotes:
~Amazing? Did we experience the same thing? But this was Dylan Bradley. Clearly, the problem was me. "Yeah, definitely."-Loc 267
~Bondage and bad sex? Not happening.-Loc 1633
May 21, 2013
4.5/5 stars
So, I am going to try and write a coherent review and not fangirl over how much I loved this book. First of all, as summer is nearly upon us, this is the absolute perfect summer read. It's fun, flirty, funny, and FABULOUS! (Hee.) This was my first book by Alyssa and I really enjoyed her writing style. I felt the pacing was perfect and that she did a great job developing our main characters.
For the most part I really liked Juliet. The book begins with her cousin having given her a 'to-do' list before she leaves for college. One of which so happens to involve skinny dipping. She is staying at her grandparent's beach house and she thought going for a swim would be harmless. Until her hot next door neighbor, who she has been crushing on forever, happens to come by. After that things were definitely not the same for Juliet.
She is sarcastic, witty, and has a bit of an attitude, all of which I really liked about her. What really bothered me was how she let Dylan treat her. The boy she's been swooning over for years just might not be the one she was hoping for after all. Dylan is a douche, plain and simple. One minute he acts charming and the next he's possessive and overprotective. Because of Juliet's spunky, fiery attitude I was really surprised she didn't tell him were to go long before she actually did. (Actually, from the first night she realized his ahem, 'performance' wasn't up to par, she probably should have ended things right there. So what if he's a good kisser?!)
Meanwhile, Juliet meets Reed, who is in the fraternity her sorority pairs up with a lot. I liked Reed instantly. He was charismatic, funny, and also actually paid attention to Juliet. I was rooting for him pretty much from the second we were introduced to him. However, Juliet is so wrapped up in Dylan, she misses what is right in front of her. Someone who wants to give her what she deserves and be what she needs! Watching their friendship unfold into something more was great. Juliet didn't feel smothered by Reed and they actually carried on meaningful conversations. And the fireworks between these two! Whew! Talk about chemistry! These two definitely have it.
Overall, if you are looking for a light, cute, fun, summer read that is guaranteed to make you laugh out loud at times- this one is calling your name. Go get it!
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review*
So, I am going to try and write a coherent review and not fangirl over how much I loved this book. First of all, as summer is nearly upon us, this is the absolute perfect summer read. It's fun, flirty, funny, and FABULOUS! (Hee.) This was my first book by Alyssa and I really enjoyed her writing style. I felt the pacing was perfect and that she did a great job developing our main characters.
For the most part I really liked Juliet. The book begins with her cousin having given her a 'to-do' list before she leaves for college. One of which so happens to involve skinny dipping. She is staying at her grandparent's beach house and she thought going for a swim would be harmless. Until her hot next door neighbor, who she has been crushing on forever, happens to come by. After that things were definitely not the same for Juliet.
She is sarcastic, witty, and has a bit of an attitude, all of which I really liked about her. What really bothered me was how she let Dylan treat her. The boy she's been swooning over for years just might not be the one she was hoping for after all. Dylan is a douche, plain and simple. One minute he acts charming and the next he's possessive and overprotective. Because of Juliet's spunky, fiery attitude I was really surprised she didn't tell him were to go long before she actually did. (Actually, from the first night she realized his ahem, 'performance' wasn't up to par, she probably should have ended things right there. So what if he's a good kisser?!)
Meanwhile, Juliet meets Reed, who is in the fraternity her sorority pairs up with a lot. I liked Reed instantly. He was charismatic, funny, and also actually paid attention to Juliet. I was rooting for him pretty much from the second we were introduced to him. However, Juliet is so wrapped up in Dylan, she misses what is right in front of her. Someone who wants to give her what she deserves and be what she needs! Watching their friendship unfold into something more was great. Juliet didn't feel smothered by Reed and they actually carried on meaningful conversations. And the fireworks between these two! Whew! Talk about chemistry! These two definitely have it.
Overall, if you are looking for a light, cute, fun, summer read that is guaranteed to make you laugh out loud at times- this one is calling your name. Go get it!
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review*
May 21, 2013
I was super luck to get an ARC for an honest review… and an honest review is what you are going to get! I loved this book!
The Hazards of Skinny Dipping takes the idea of a Bucket List and turns it into something not death related! Who ever thought that cross that last item on you “Off to college” list would change the fate of your college love life.
I’m sure when you were younger that you all had a crush on that one guy… the one that was older, hotter, never looked at you like you existed… well, I’m here to tell you that fairytales do come true in this book…. but, sometime fairytales turn into one hot sexy nightmare!
Also, it’s about see what is right in front of you. Sometime we think we know what we want, but when we actually get it… it’s nothing like you plan. What if the man of your dreams was there all along? Would you let go of that fairytale/nightmare to find true love?
This book was fantastic! I loved the story line about making choices and how that impacts your life decisions. I only had one fear throughout this entire book, and that was that Dylan would continue to be the selfish pompous ass and make Juliet’s life miserable.
If I had to pick my favorite part of the book, it’s def going to be the ending because there’s nothing like going back to the one scene that changed you life and rewriting it!
Just remember girls… in the words of Juliet…. “If you do decide to go skinny dipping, make sure to bring a towel!”
The Hazards of Skinny Dipping takes the idea of a Bucket List and turns it into something not death related! Who ever thought that cross that last item on you “Off to college” list would change the fate of your college love life.
I’m sure when you were younger that you all had a crush on that one guy… the one that was older, hotter, never looked at you like you existed… well, I’m here to tell you that fairytales do come true in this book…. but, sometime fairytales turn into one hot sexy nightmare!
Also, it’s about see what is right in front of you. Sometime we think we know what we want, but when we actually get it… it’s nothing like you plan. What if the man of your dreams was there all along? Would you let go of that fairytale/nightmare to find true love?
This book was fantastic! I loved the story line about making choices and how that impacts your life decisions. I only had one fear throughout this entire book, and that was that Dylan would continue to be the selfish pompous ass and make Juliet’s life miserable.
If I had to pick my favorite part of the book, it’s def going to be the ending because there’s nothing like going back to the one scene that changed you life and rewriting it!
Just remember girls… in the words of Juliet…. “If you do decide to go skinny dipping, make sure to bring a towel!”
March 23, 2014
This is pure fluff. I was in the mood for it though, so I enjoyed it.
Juliet is refreshingly confident. She's easy-going and super chill. I enjoyed her snarky personality. She is always entertaining without even trying.
A large part of the story revolves around the frat and sorority stuff so there's a bit of hazing and power plays and bullying going on. And there are a lot of hot but creepy boys after Juliet. I was half dreading and half excited to see which bozo would be the one to win her heart. It was like a competition to see who could be the least of an asshole to her.
After a while it became obvious who the hero is because he tries to protect Juliet from the less savoury characters of the book. Particularly her dickhead boyfriend who isn't even good in bed. I was frustrated with this relationship.
Sexual Content: It was actually really weird how many sex scenes there are involving a guy who is not the hero of the story....
Juliet is refreshingly confident. She's easy-going and super chill. I enjoyed her snarky personality. She is always entertaining without even trying.
A large part of the story revolves around the frat and sorority stuff so there's a bit of hazing and power plays and bullying going on. And there are a lot of hot but creepy boys after Juliet. I was half dreading and half excited to see which bozo would be the one to win her heart. It was like a competition to see who could be the least of an asshole to her.
After a while it became obvious who the hero is because he tries to protect Juliet from the less savoury characters of the book. Particularly her dickhead boyfriend who isn't even good in bed. I was frustrated with this relationship.
Sexual Content: It was actually really weird how many sex scenes there are involving a guy who is not the hero of the story....
May 29, 2013
**Thank you Alyssa Rose Ivy for the ARC of this book. :)**
This was a great, light read. I had fun following Juliet as she waded through the first semester of college. I loved Reed! Though I have to admit I wanted more visualization when it came to the love scenes. I kept waiting to see if Dylan would drop by, for Reed to fight for her. Some sort of conflict so she could earn her HEA. Just a little. Either way this was an enjoyable read. Was great to read another of Ms Ivy's books.
Look forward to reading more of her upcoming books.
This was a great, light read. I had fun following Juliet as she waded through the first semester of college. I loved Reed! Though I have to admit I wanted more visualization when it came to the love scenes. I kept waiting to see if Dylan would drop by, for Reed to fight for her. Some sort of conflict so she could earn her HEA. Just a little. Either way this was an enjoyable read. Was great to read another of Ms Ivy's books.
Look forward to reading more of her upcoming books.
June 28, 2013
Aw, this was a quick, fun book. Starting with a skinny dipping scene is the perfect sign of a fin book. Since the beginning, I wanted to hit Dylan, and omg I'm so in love with Reed :)
A perfect summer book!
A perfect summer book!
May 19, 2013
This is somewhere between a 3.5 to 4...It wasn't all that deep but it was definitely fluffy and cute. Kinda perfect for the rainy afternoon when I read it.
August 16, 2019
Well, I try not to read reviews before I read the book but I just wanted to get a feel of whether others liked it or not. Well I'm not so sure with this book that was a good idea and don't get me wrong it's not the reviews fault it's completely mine for reading that first. Someone had written that they though Dylan was like the preppy frat guy from Van Wilder and now I can't get that picture out of my head. I wanted to think Dylan was cute but now I just can't and he's such a complete jerk in the book anyway. I'm really trying to remember what it was like to be young and have a crush finally like you back but he's so possessive and I know at 18 I still wouldn't have put up with that. And the fact that he's so bad in bed! If she wants to stay with him she'll need to fix that. How long will she let it go on with this 2 pump wonder. And hunny his fore play isn't that good if he moves away when things get good. But again she's young!
So Dylan aside this is a book about a freshman girl at collage Juliet, and clearing she's gorgeous and smart and witty...at least she must be because there isn't a guy in sight that doesn't seem to love her. Ya it's one of those books. And it's going to drive me crazy! So Dylan's so possessive of her Kyle his young brother has wanted her forever and constantly lets her know it. Ryan another frat brother seems to like her at least likes looking at her. Remember she of course has a great body. And then there is Reed. Reed is the obvious choice in better guy for her. But she doesn't see it that way yet. I know she will though. You know with 100% certainty that this is where the book is heading right.
So she's dating Reed now, yeah! Even though we all knew Dylan was a controlling jerk it still felt kind of like an abrupt breakup. He gave her a hickey and she freaked. I don't blame her I wouldn't really like to walk around with one either but there are worse things he's done. Anyway we'll let this poor writing slide because he needed to be gone sooner rather than later.
On to Reed. I liked the way they got together it wasn't immediate but it was still pretty quick but that this book. All about this shy inexperienced girl that was now had 2 boyfriends by November as a freshmen because she's so awesome all the guys want her. Can you tell this is dripping in sarcasm. Anyway their relationship is perfect, and of course he's hung and great in bed even if the sex scenes are lack luster. Juliet even gets him to re-connect with his parents and he meets her brothers. They would rather spend their time together having lots of sex and talking than going to parties, blah, blah, blah.
The tension comes later when Juliet finds out that her cousin Amy had asked Reed to keep an eye on Juliet before she even started school. Now here's where the young stupid people come out. Is Juliet over-reacting? Yes! Should Reed have told her about this before telling her he loved her? YES! They are both in the wrong here and I can only hope this gets cleared up quickly. Now Juliet has every right to be angry with Reed over this but she needs to remember that her cousin did this to her and that's isn't "cool" to keep things from her. I very much hope she gives it good to Amy as well. If she really wants to play this out as the victim here she'll treat it like a cheating betrayal. Not physically obviously but emotionally. How much have the two of them been talking about her behind her back. These are arguments she could bring up with both of them. It was wrong of them to keep their friendship from her. It gets cleared up in the end of course which it needed to be. Juliet forgave both of them and I really did like the way Reed handled things at least in this regard.
So Dylan aside this is a book about a freshman girl at collage Juliet, and clearing she's gorgeous and smart and witty...at least she must be because there isn't a guy in sight that doesn't seem to love her. Ya it's one of those books. And it's going to drive me crazy! So Dylan's so possessive of her Kyle his young brother has wanted her forever and constantly lets her know it. Ryan another frat brother seems to like her at least likes looking at her. Remember she of course has a great body. And then there is Reed. Reed is the obvious choice in better guy for her. But she doesn't see it that way yet. I know she will though. You know with 100% certainty that this is where the book is heading right.
So she's dating Reed now, yeah! Even though we all knew Dylan was a controlling jerk it still felt kind of like an abrupt breakup. He gave her a hickey and she freaked. I don't blame her I wouldn't really like to walk around with one either but there are worse things he's done. Anyway we'll let this poor writing slide because he needed to be gone sooner rather than later.
On to Reed. I liked the way they got together it wasn't immediate but it was still pretty quick but that this book. All about this shy inexperienced girl that was now had 2 boyfriends by November as a freshmen because she's so awesome all the guys want her. Can you tell this is dripping in sarcasm. Anyway their relationship is perfect, and of course he's hung and great in bed even if the sex scenes are lack luster. Juliet even gets him to re-connect with his parents and he meets her brothers. They would rather spend their time together having lots of sex and talking than going to parties, blah, blah, blah.
The tension comes later when Juliet finds out that her cousin Amy had asked Reed to keep an eye on Juliet before she even started school. Now here's where the young stupid people come out. Is Juliet over-reacting? Yes! Should Reed have told her about this before telling her he loved her? YES! They are both in the wrong here and I can only hope this gets cleared up quickly. Now Juliet has every right to be angry with Reed over this but she needs to remember that her cousin did this to her and that's isn't "cool" to keep things from her. I very much hope she gives it good to Amy as well. If she really wants to play this out as the victim here she'll treat it like a cheating betrayal. Not physically obviously but emotionally. How much have the two of them been talking about her behind her back. These are arguments she could bring up with both of them. It was wrong of them to keep their friendship from her. It gets cleared up in the end of course which it needed to be. Juliet forgave both of them and I really did like the way Reed handled things at least in this regard.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 11, 2020
Some slight spoilers below! No major spoilers.
Oh hell yeah I am so excited to write this review! I have been waiting to trash talk Dylan because I've definitely dated a Dylan! A total douchebag? Yes. A complete piece of shit? Yes. Bad in bed? YES!
Okay lets start off with some quotes from our very own - Dylan douchebag dickhead!
"I like talking to you Juliet, but I love having sex with you." Did he realize how that sounded?
[Juliet] "I guess it's a bad time to tell you it's that time of the month." "What?" The look of horror that crossed his face was priceless.
[Dylan] "Speaking of which, want to head home and take a shower?" [Juliet] "We just got to the beach." "We'll come back tomorrow. I need you"
LOL who THE FUCK is Dylan, he thinks he's HOT SHIT. He didn't give two shits about Juliet having a good time either btw.
I didn't get a lot of quotes before this because I was too busy cringing but these appeared at around 45% (yeah... she stays with him that long). And the entire time I was reading it and cringing - ALL I was thinking was "This was me!" The beauty of this book is it is a fluffy, humorous read but is SOO relatable! Every time Dylan was a piece of shit (see eveRY FUCKING PAGE), it reminded me ofSou- sorry, sorry, my ex. It brought up some relatively uncomfortable topics for me and forced me to remember some extremely awful situations I'd rather forget. BUT with that being said, it made me who I am today, which is awesome.
Let's get into the fun side of the book. Juliet just began university, and it really reminded me of my first year of university (I'm about to go into my fourth so it was a nice reminder). She meets a character named Reed, who waslickable, whoops, I mean likeable! He was protective but not in a disgusting manner, and I always found it fun when Juliet was working with him. She additionally met him while still dating Dylan. This was a nice change to have an author really show that side of a character, there haven't book a lot of books I've come across myself like this one. We all know reading it that Dylan is the wrong guy for her, but having her meet the perfect guy while with Dylan - it's sooo relatable and I'm sure a lot of people would agree with me!
The story, although light, seemed much more realistic than many of the other books I've read. I was pretty happy with the supporting characters and Juliets interactions with them - her actions toward Tally were much nicer than mine would have been! Also, its quite funny I found myself laughing out loud a handful of times. So yes, I will definitely read the next in the series and I'm quite looking forward to it. Honestly, this book is a lot of fun and great start to summer reading.
Oh hell yeah I am so excited to write this review! I have been waiting to trash talk Dylan because I've definitely dated a Dylan! A total douchebag? Yes. A complete piece of shit? Yes. Bad in bed? YES!
Okay lets start off with some quotes from our very own - Dylan douchebag dickhead!
"I like talking to you Juliet, but I love having sex with you." Did he realize how that sounded?
[Juliet] "I guess it's a bad time to tell you it's that time of the month." "What?" The look of horror that crossed his face was priceless.
[Dylan] "Speaking of which, want to head home and take a shower?" [Juliet] "We just got to the beach." "We'll come back tomorrow. I need you"
LOL who THE FUCK is Dylan, he thinks he's HOT SHIT. He didn't give two shits about Juliet having a good time either btw.
I didn't get a lot of quotes before this because I was too busy cringing but these appeared at around 45% (yeah... she stays with him that long). And the entire time I was reading it and cringing - ALL I was thinking was "This was me!" The beauty of this book is it is a fluffy, humorous read but is SOO relatable! Every time Dylan was a piece of shit (see eveRY FUCKING PAGE), it reminded me of
Let's get into the fun side of the book. Juliet just began university, and it really reminded me of my first year of university (I'm about to go into my fourth so it was a nice reminder). She meets a character named Reed, who was
The story, although light, seemed much more realistic than many of the other books I've read. I was pretty happy with the supporting characters and Juliets interactions with them - her actions toward Tally were much nicer than mine would have been! Also, its quite funny I found myself laughing out loud a handful of times. So yes, I will definitely read the next in the series and I'm quite looking forward to it. Honestly, this book is a lot of fun and great start to summer reading.
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